First, rinse the pumpkin if it has any dirt on it (mine did).

Using a small plate, trace a circle on the bottom of the pumpkin to mark where you'll cut. Cut out the bottom instead of the top—this helps keep the pumpkin stable and prevents it from rolling over!

Once it's open, scoop out all the seeds with a spoon into a bowl! (This part is a lot of fun to do with kids.)

Draw your design on a piece of paper, print it out, or trace it from a tablet! Tape the design onto the pumpkin.

Use a fork to poke holes along the lines of your design, then carefully cut along the pattern with a knife. Hugging the pumpkin can help keep it steady while you carve.

Spread petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on the cut edges of the pumpkin. This helps keep it from drying out and shriveling over the next few days! If you like, sprinkle a little pumpkin spice or cinnamon inside so it smells like pumpkin pie when you light it!

If needed, cut a few holes in the back of the pumpkin to let out smoke from the candle, or use a battery-operated candle instead!
Your pumpkin is ready! Good luck, be careful with the knives, and...