Pumpkin-carving tools
Whether you’re carving an intricate design or making it up as you go along, having easy-to-use pumpkin-carving tools can make a difference this Halloween.
It’s tempting to simply grab an inexpensive set when you’re picking up other fall supplies from the seasonal section of the grocery store. However, you may end up having to buy a new kit each year. After a few considerations, finding carving tools that last will make pumpkin carving second nature.
Though the cheapest kits aren’t ideal, there are many pumpkin-carving supply sets within a reasonable budget.
Features of good pumpkin-carving tools and supplies
Precision
For those wanting to make precise, detailed lines in your spooky designs, you’ll want to find finely-sharpened tools that can give you the cuts you want. Many regular knives just won’t be able to deliver, while paring knives and cutting tools specifically for pumpkin carving will be better-suited. Power tools can also give you the option for detail for those who are familiar with operating certain types of drills.
Handles
Some pumpkin-carving kits have handles that are too small for adult hands. Good handles give the carver more control so that it’s easier to follow the lines of your design.
Variety
Having supplies that can make large cuts as well as detailed cuts makes everything more efficient and you won’t have to spend time gathering everything you need or running to get a different tool. Kits that come with scooper tools are always a good way to move from start to finish without slowing down the activity.
Kinds of pumpkin-carving tools and supplies
Punchers
Instead of carving, how about the “cookie-cutter” approach? You’ll be able to use and reuse shaped cutters that are made for jack o’ lantern faces.
Professional tools
Other crafts that require some level of carving can give you ideas for stepping up your pumpkin carving. You’ll find a wide range of tools for everything from wood carving, linotype printing and engraving.
Fake pumpkins
The best trick on the night of trick-or-treating is carving a styrofoam pumpkin instead of a real one. In fact, you could carve it and leave it out all of October — and save it for next year. Fake pumpkins are much easier to carve than real ones. And the best part is, no one can really tell in the dark!
How much do quality pumpkin supplies cost?
There isn’t any need to spend more than $50 for quality pumpkin carving tools and kits. Most supplies will fall around $15-$20.
Best pumpkin-carving tools
Best all-in-one tool for pumpkin carving
Speedball Linoleum Cutter Assortment: available at Amazon
Our take: Another way to get those precise engravings on the surface of the pumpkin is to use a lino cutter, especially if you want a little bit more control than a power tool.
What we like: One handle with multiple blades at less than $15. Allows you to add fine details to your design.
What we don’t like: Not made for large cuts.
Best bang for your buck in pumpkin-carving kits
Blovec 11 PCS Halloween Pumpkin Carving Kit: available at Amazon
Our take: This kit has everything from the scooper to a range of carving tools, all easily put away in the toolkit they come in.
What we like: Saws some in several valuable shapes and sizes and the handles are made of sturdy wood.
What we don’t like: This is a simple option that doesn’t come with other features such as a design book.
Best power tool for pumpkin carving
Dremel Lite Multi-purpose Rotary Tool Kit: available at Amazon
Our take: A bestseller in power rotary tools at less than $50, this Dremel tool kit has multiple attachments to give you the precision you want for more complicated designs.
What we like: Quick, efficient and great for difficult designs.
What we don’t like: More expensive than other tools.
Best tool for detailed pumpkin carving
AUGSUN Wood Carving Knife Set: available at Amazon
Our take: Another inexpensive option for detail work is this 20-piece set of wood carving knives, which are listed as a bestseller in wood carving.
What we like: Lots of different blades and inexpensive. Durable wood.
What we don’t like: Not ideal for larger cuts.
Best cookie cutters for pumpkin carving
Pumpkin Punchers Pumpkin Carving Kit for Kids: available at Amazon
Our take: If you’re not interested in detailed designs and simply want to create some classic jack o’ lantern faces, this is the perfect set of “cookie-cutter” carving sets that will make pumpkin carving fun and safer for kids.
What we like: Safe and easy to use for quickly mix-and-matching jack o’ lantern features.
What we don’t like: Limited in design.
Best foam pumpkins for pumpkin carving
Pumpkinteeth Artificial Pumpkins: available at Etsy
Our take: If you’re wanting to carve a pumpkin that will last, buying this styrofoam pumpkin and a flameless candle will allow you to display your best design for multiple Halloweens.
What we like: Though more expensive, you won’t have to throw out your hard work with this 14-inch tall and 35-inch around foam pumpkin. Large size and easy to carve.
What we don’t like: Pricey.
Best kitchen knife for pumpkin carving
Mercer Culinary White Ultimate 3-Inch Paring Knife: available at Amazon
Our take: For a practical buy at under $5, this paring knife works well for most pumpkin carving if you’re not wanting to do a lot of shading and dotting.
What we like: Inexpensive and can be used year-round in the kitchen.
What we don’t like: Less versatile.
Ashley Clayton Kay is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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