31+ Free Pumpkin Carving Patterns

If you came looking for FREE Pumpkin Carving Patterns, look no further because I have tons for you to choose from below!

Pumpkin carving is a fun, long standing Halloween tradition.

Did you know that the popularity of pumpkin carving dates all the way back to colonial times.

In addition to being fun, pumpkin carving also serves as a great way to show off your artistic skills.

You can carve pumpkins using knives or pumpkin carving tools.

Or, you can decorate them using paints, markers, stickers, or even glitter.

If you’re planning to carve pumpkins this Halloween, you’ll have greater success if you use a stencil.

Pumpkin Carving Stencils

You’ll find over 31 fun pumpkin carving stencils that you can print out and use to carve your own Jack-o-Lantern Pumpkins this Halloween.

These printable stencils are my gift to you and completely free for you to print and use.

How to Carve a Pumpkin

Gather a sharp knife, a spoon, a pumpkin carving kit (or alternatively a small saw or drill), and some newspaper to cover your work surface. Carefully cut a hole in the top of the pumpkin for the lid. Make sure to angle your blade inward to create a ledge for the lid to sit on. Next, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp from the inside of the pumpkin. Be careful not to damage the walls of the pumpkin. Print the template you want to use. Trim excess paper, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the pattern. Make relief cuts in the template to ensure the pattern is smooth on the surface. Poke holes through the pattern using a push pin or pumpkin poker tool from a carving kit. Remove the paper once fully transferred. Now cut out the shapes using a carving kit knife or small saw. Whichever works for your design. Add a light and place the lid back on.

Pumpkin Carving Ideas

If you’re looking for more ideas for carving pumpkins, this site also has TONS of printable pumpkin carving stencils!

You’ll find everything from Disney to Star Wars.

These stencils are not free to use, but they are awesome if you want to have some of the most uniquely carved pumpkins around this year.

Pumpkin Carving Safety Tips

Clean Your Carving Tools and Area

Before starting, make sure to wash your carving tools and work surface with soap and water.

This will help prevent the spread of bacteria, which can cause infections if you accidentally cut yourself while carving.

You’ll also want to follow these tips to keep your carved pumpkins from rotting too soon.

Always Have Adult Supervision

Adults should always do the actual carving.

Children can draw an outline on the pumpkin and help clean out the pulp.

It’s best to leave the use of sharp items to adults.

Always Carve Away from the Body

You should always carve away from the body and use caution when using a sharp knife or other tools.

Additionally, it is important to go slowly and steadily so that you do not accidentally damage the pumpkin or yourself.

Use Proper Tools

You don’t need super sharp knives, medium sharp ones can work just as well and not be as dangerous.

Also consider a pumpkin carving kit!

Explore Light Alternatives

You can use LED lights or battery-operated candles instead of real candles.