Elaine Smith
Process Analysis
October 9, 2020
The Perfect Pumpkin
The warm tone leaves fall down over the hay like grass and on the cobble path leading
up to a small set of stairs and a porch. The stairs have decorations plastered all over for this
month’s most prized holiday, Halloween. Those decorations consist of both small and large,
round, bright orange pumpkins. They have a vast variety of faces and designs carved in their
smooth body. How does one perfect such a composition of unique shapes? With the right
technique, it can be quite easy.
The first step is to find the perfect size and shaped pumpkin to fit the needs of the
planned design. A larger, wider pumpkin may be needed for a design of a grim smile with
bearing teeth while a taller one would fit a ghost shape better. The most common designs are
faces, so a pumpkin that can properly fit a face is mostly suggested. A round and smoother
finish is also a good idea, considering that the pumpkin will be on display for all to see.
However, a bumpy or coarse one may fit the desired aesthetic better. It’s all up to the carver.
Once the pumpkin has been picked out and purchased, it is time to set the design.
Whatever depiction is chosen should be lightly traced onto the pumpkin with a marker,
preferably Sharpie. Whether it’s freehanded or traced, the marks are the blueprint for where the
carving will take place so make sure it is perfected. The next step is to take out the mush inside
and create a hollow opening for a candle of light to fit. This is done by cutting a circle around the
stem and pulling it out. Then with a spoon or hands, pull at the stringy guts and seeds. It may
take a while to rid the pumpkin of it’s gloppy insides, but once it’s done, save the seeds to bake
for an afternoon snack. It is suggested that a tool such as a spoon or spatula is used to scrape
out the mush that is stuck to the sides. Once, the pumpkin is hollowed out, it is time to carve,
Although there are many pumpkin carving tool kits around, it is preferable to stick with a
solid knife. The cheap tools tend to bend and break over the sturdy exterior of the pumpkin.
Smith 2
Carefully, lay the knife over the colored line which was earlier drawn. Slowly apply pressure until
the inside of the pumpkin has been reached. With pulsing in and out motion, trace over the
lines. Do not drag the knife straight across, as that simply will not work. Make sure the knife is
pointing away from the carver, as if a slip were to happen no injuries would occur. After each
line is traced and loose parts have been pushed out, it is almost complete. The final step is to
find a source of light. Tea lights are recommended because they provide the same effect as a
candle without the fire hazard. Place the finished pumpkin onto the desired display area and
watch the pumpkin glow in the night. The design is visible from up close and afar, and definitely
helps create a spooky ambience of the Halloween season.
Throughout most children’s childhood, carving a pumpkin was an excited Halloween
activity that many still do today. It’s popularity raged due to the fun and easiness that creates
such a perfect outcome. No matter the design, the quality, or even the originality of it, the
pumpkin will radiate fun and spooky energy for everyone to see.
