Scallop Shell Fan Pumpkin With Five Glowing Openings

From pumpkin to porch

1. 1

   Prep the pumpkin

   Choose a round pumpkin with a smooth, slightly flat front face. Cut the lid from the back, scoop the interior to a consistent inch of wall thickness, and wipe the surface dry before applying the template.

2. 2

   Transfer the fan template

   Print a five-fan scallop shell outline sized to fill most of the pumpkin face. Tape it in place and perforate all five slot outlines and the outer scallop rim with a pushpin. Remove the paper to reveal the full dotted outline.

3. 3

   Cut the center slot first

   Begin with the middle slot of the five, which anchors the radial symmetry. Cut along the perforated outline with a jab saw, then pop out the piece and check that the two ribs on either side are still the same width. If spacing is uneven, adjust your template marks for the next slot before cutting.

4. 4

   Cut outward to each side

   Cut the two slots immediately beside the center, then finish with the outermost slots on each side. Working outward from the center keeps the widest rind mass in place longest, which stabilizes the pumpkin while the outer cuts are made.

5. 5

   Check edges and structural ribs

   Inspect each rib between slots from the inside of the pumpkin. Each rib should be attached solidly at both the narrow base and the broader top rim. Trim any rough or uneven edges with a detail knife.

6. 6

   Light and position

   Place an LED tea light directly behind the center rib inside the pumpkin. The central position casts a soft radial glow across all five slots that mimics the natural ribbed texture of a real scallop shell. Pair with other coastal props for a complete beach display.

Written with AI to match this design