Stylized Rhode Island Outline Pumpkin

From pumpkin to porch

1. 1

   Pick a tall pumpkin and open the back

   Choose a tall, slightly oval pumpkin with a smooth, flat front panel and few deep ribs. Cut a lid or a large access hole in the back, angling the cut inward so the cap cannot drop inside. Scoop the seeds and pulp, then thin the front wall from the inside to about one inch thick. A thinner wall makes the outline easier to saw and lets more light pass through.

2. 2

   Transfer the state outline

   Print or trace a Rhode Island mainland shape sized to sit vertically and centered on the front. Tape the pattern flat, smoothing it into the pumpkin's curve, and poke closely spaced dots along the entire outline with a pushpin or poking tool. Include the small peninsula on the lower right that suggests Aquidneck Island as part of the same connected shape. Remove the paper and connect the dots lightly with a pencil so you have one continuous line.

3. 3

   Score the outline before committing

   Run a fine carving saw shallowly along the pencil line, just breaking the skin, to lock in the shape before cutting deep. Take the tapered waist on the right slowly, since tight curves are where saws wander. Keep the blade straight up and down so the opening edges stay clean. Check that the outline is one closed loop with no stray marks.

4. 4

   Saw the cutout, leaving the last inch

   Cut fully through along the outline, working the bottom and sides first while the tall panel is still supported. Use gentle, low-pressure strokes and let the saw do the work rather than forcing it. Because the piece is tall and thin, leave the final inch near the top attached until everything else is cut. This keeps the panel from falling early and cracking the opening edge.

5. 5

   Free the piece and clean the edges

   Support the cutout with one hand, then finish that last inch so the whole state releases in one piece. Ease it out gently to avoid chipping the narrow waist. Trim any ragged spots with a small detail blade and shave the inside edge of the opening at a slight bevel so light spreads outward. Wipe the cut edges to remove loose pulp.

6. 6

   Light it and photograph

   Set a battery LED or a small puck light inside, never a candle, since the tall opening can channel heat. Position the light low and slightly back so the glow fills the shape evenly from the broad base up to the top. Rub a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the cut edges to slow drying. Shoot in a dim room at dusk so the bright silhouette reads clearly.