How to Carve a Watermelon Purse

A summertime party just wouldn't be complete without a watermelon. But watermelons aren't just for eating. With the proper tools, a little imagination and the following instructions, anyone can create a beautiful watermelon purse to adorn a summertime tablescape.

Things You'll Need

• Watermelon
• Sharp kitchen knife

Instructions

1. Choose an appropriate watermelon shape. A small round watermelon works best for the watermelon purse.

2. Wash the watermelon to make it presentable. Now place the watermelon on its side and slice it in half through the middle.

3. Take one of the halves of watermelon and cut off the top end. Using a sharp kitchen knife, carve the flesh out of the watermelon. This will be the foundation for the watermelon purse.

4. Set the other half of the watermelon slice-side down and placing the blade of the kitchen knife at the top of the watermelon, slice directly down.

5. Use one half of the newly sliced watermelon half to create the handle of the purse. Cut a piece that is about 2 inches wide. Cut this from the longest part of the watermelon quarter, going all the way around.

6. Cut the flesh off the handle and use creative cuts to decorate the handle. Attach the handle to the watermelon purse base using toothpicks.

7. Make the purse pocket. Take the other piece of watermelon and scrape out the flesh then attach it with toothpicks.

8. Fill the carved watermelon purse with fresh-cut fruit.

Tips & Warnings

• Try decorating the carved watermelon purse with ribbons, rhinestones or cut-out watermelon lips.

• Always be careful when using a sharp knife.