Pumpkin stencils are easy to use if you have worked with them before. Just like any other tool, you would have to feel comfortable with using that tool. If you're not comfortable with using a stencil, then I suggest that you stick with the butter knife.
It depends what kind you buy. Paper ones are normally good for only one carving. Plastic ones on the other hand can be used over and over again so make sure to keep them for next year.
Lots of places have stencils to carve Halloween pumpkins. Walmart, Target, K-mart and Walgreens should have a pretty good selection. Also, if your town has a Halloween store there every year, they should have some, too.
=go to google.com and type in virtual pumpkin carving... you get reallly good ones.==bhope i helped :p=
A good place to find cheap pumpkin carving templates on the internet is pumpkinmasters.com This website has downloadable designs that are all unique, and the best part is that they are all free!
Many stores and sites on the internet carry Halloween pumpkin stencils available for sale at a variety of prices. There are also some websites online that are now offering Halloween pumpkin stencils for free, so that is another option to consider. If you would still prefer to pay for stencils there are many stores offering them so you should be able to shop around and find something in your price range. I will include the URL for a great website offering a wide array of Halloween pumpkin stencils. The link is for an online store and they also carry Halloween stencils of different shapes and creatures. The website URL is: http://www.zombiepumpkins.com/.
You can find good carving patterns for decorative pumpkins at the following websites..pumpkincarving.blogspot.com/ or www.fantasypumpkins.com/free-patterns.htm
The history of a carved pumpkin also known as a jack-o-lantern was first associated with Halloween in 1866. Before becoming a symbol of Halloween tradition, carved pumpkins were a sign of the harvest season in general. Thanks to an article published in 1900, carving pumpkins and creating jack-o-lanterns continue to be the most anticipated activity for families during Halloween festivities. There's an endless number of designs available to create, so each is unique. Below are a few tips to help you and your family get started. The key to creating the perfect pumpkin is in selecting the right pumpkin. Take a minute and think about what you want to carve. The size and shape you purchase is based on the design and tools that you'll use. Tall, narrow pumpkins work well when using a knife to carve freestyle. If you are using an elaborate pattern then choose a nice large, round one. While shape and size are individual preferences be sure to choose a fresh, ripe pumpkin free of bruises and scratches. Be sure to give the pumpkin a good thump. A hallow sounds means scooping out the inside will be easier. Now that you have selected your pumpkin, cover you intended workspace with newspaper of plastic to avoid a mess. Start by cutting a hole on top to serve as a lid. It is important to cut using an inward angle for the lid to sit properly. Otherwise, the top will fall straight through inside the pumpkin. If you plan on using an electric light with a wire instead of a candle, cutting a hole in the bottom is recommended. Before beginning the actual carving, sketch a pattern on a piece of paper or search the internet for a design you like. Simply use scissors to cut the parts out and trace the pattern on the pumpkin as a guide for carving. A parring knife is best because it's small and allows for better control. However, if you chose a more complicated design then a dremel may be needed. Last, to preserve all your hard work, spread petroleum jelly all over the pumpkin and enjoy all season. .
There are several good sites for pumpkin templates online but the best is probably pumpkinlady.com.The designs there are both intricate and easy to understand.
that first bite of a pumpkin blows your mind its like a orange heaven better then no other taste you will ever taste
If you're looking for family friendly patterns go to www.dltk-holiday.com. They have a great variety of patterns for all ages and carving abilities. Including Blues Clues and Jack o Lantern cutouts.
Many craft stores carry a wide range of stencils such as Michael's and Jo-Anna. Great online sources for stencils are Spray Paint Stencils, Designer Stencils and Stencil Ease.
You can find carved pumpkins at many craft stores. These pumpkins will be artificial but good for every year! The only thing is, carving pumpkins is fun!