Scoop out the seeds and goop with a spoon or your hands. Separate the seeds for useful recipes. Start slicing into the pumpkin. Be sure to cut in chunks for larger areas. The chunks are easier to remove and will not damage your overall design.
Pumpkins have a long and glorious history in the American diet.
In fact, they are exclusively American and were developed by the Native Americans long before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. Choose one that is bright orange, heavy and firm. Pumpkins can be stored without refrigeration, but keep them in a dark, cool area if they are to be stored for more than a week. Remember, it's OK to carve the pumpkin, but don't burn the candle directly inside. Otherwise, you cannot use the pumpkin.