How to Carve an Oak Leaf Pumpkin

If you're tired of ordinary Halloween pumpkin carving, try something different. This oak leaf pumpkin carving design is created by scoring the outer skin of the pumpkin rather than cutting all the way through. This method is actually easier and less messy than traditional pumpkin carving. However, it requires that you have a high quality set of pumpkin carving tools. Look for high carbon steel carvers with quality wooden handles. Clay sculpting tools can also be useful for this type of project.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 

   Select a paper size which fits the size pumpkin you selected. Click on the image to print out the oak leaf template included with this step. Tape the template to the pumpkin. Use a needle or a pointed pumpkin carving tool to score along the black lines. Remove the pumpkin carving template.

2. 

   Begin to carve the skin of the pumpkin in the areas which indicate the oak branch and outer leaves. Use a slightly curved tool with a sharp edge. Continue scraping gently and repeatedly until about 1/8 of an inch has been removed from the pumpkin.

3. 

   Carve the lines which indicate the oak leaf veins. Use a slightly smaller tool for these more delicate lines. Work carefully, leaving a strip of uncarved orange pumpkin flesh for every other strip. Refer to the included picture of the finished oak leaf pumpkin for guidance if necessary.

4. 

   Carve the circles, which indicate the acorns. Use a circular tool or a chisel to score around the edge, then scoop out the inside.

5. Go over the oak leaf pumpkin carving with a sharp, yet fine, carving tool. Score a little deeper inside the branches, leaf shapes and veins to create more depth to the carving. The deepest part of the carving should be in the center of the line. Spray the entire pumpkin with a preservative before putting it on display.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a medium sized ripe pumpkin with a firm stem. Make sure that the pumpkin is very round with no blemishes.
• Shake the pumpkin gently at the store. If you can hear liquids moving around inside, put it back and select another one.
• Take a picture of your pumpkin in daylight to preserve your design forever.
• If you like, you can open the bottom of the pumpkin to remove the seeds for roasting. Seeds removed after the decorative carving should be discarded.
• Never attempt to eat a pumpkin that has been carved and displayed.