How to Carve a Tiki Pumpkin

Carving a tiki pumpkin might seem like a daunting task, but you can complete this project with simple household tools and some imagination. Time to get started.

1. First: Find a tiki-ready pumpkin

   This step is often overlooked. A perfect tiki pumpkin needs enough space to cut the carving large enough so that others can easily see it. The perfect pumpkin for this project is large, but not too large.

2. Second: Get a pumpkin carving set or a sharp knife

   Pumpkin carving sets are generally affordable and easy to use, but are not always necessary. A good, sharp, all purpose knife can also suffice. Whether you use a carving set or a knife, do not allow children to complete this project unsupervised.

3. Third: Find a template that is tiki-rific

   A quick Internet search should bring up a few suitable tiki templates. Simply print it out or draw the template on your pumpkin. If you have good artistic skills, feel free to simply draw the tiki design using permanent market. Dry-erase markers do not tend to work well on the surface of the pumpkin.

4. Fourth: Cut the top of the pumpkin and prepare for your tiki masterpiece

   Using a sharp knife, cut a circular slit around the stem of the pumpkin on the top and remove the top using the stem. Next, remove the seeds and other pumpkin innards. This step is a great way to get children involved. Prepare for this step by placing the pumpkin and seeds on old newspaper or a surface otherwise suited for messy projects.

5. Fifth: Carve!

   Using a knife or a pumpkin carving set, cut your tiki template from the face of the pumpkin. Make sure to go slow and steady to avoid any accidents or errors. You should have a wonderful tiki pumpkin in no time. Do not forget to light up your tki-rific masterpiece for all to see with a candle or other light source.