Comments on: How to Carve a Fancy Pumpkin With a Dremel

on 11/22/2005 If you cut out the top you end up reaching into your pumpkin with a match to light the candle. By cutting out the bottom of the pumpkin instead of the top, you can set the candle on the base of the pumpkin, easily light it, and place the pumpkin over the base. Works very convienently!

on 11/22/2005 Some models of Dremel tools offer a long flexible bi5t extention. I find it's much easier to do precesion work without the weight of the tool or the torque of the motor putting twist into your wrist.

on 11/22/2005 If you do not have a dremel, local department stores like Wal-Monster have $10 electric pumpkin carvers.

on 11/22/2005 Place the Dremel (minus the bit) into a plastic bag. Punch a hole in the bag, add the bit, and use the Dremel either in or through the bag. Dremels get the pumpkin mush flying - this saves a lot of cleanup and protects the Dremel.

on 11/22/2005 Your pumpkin doesn't have to have a Halloween motif! Make a paper stencil to copy your kids' favorite video game character (like Sonic). Place your tracing onto the pumpkin and make little, shallow holes into the pumpkin along the lines
and carve away!

on 11/22/2005 If you are in a hurry, you can skip step 4. This will be quicker, but you will have to be more steady with your hands. If you think you are up to the challenge and you want to save some time, give it a try.

on 11/22/2005 Getting the feel for this can be a bit tricky. Start on a practice pumpkin to get a better understanding of the techniques involved. Practice making edges. Use shading by carving different depths, and figure out which attachments work best for each part.