Decoration Inspiration: 2011 Best in Show Halloween Pumpkins

carved by Mario Losasso (via Distilled)

No Halloween would ever be complete without some amazing pumpkin designs! We may not possess the talent of pumpkin carving, but wanted to showcase others who do. Who knew that one could turn an ordinary pumpkin into an amazing piece of art. So in honor of the Halloween season we are kicking off our 1st Annual Best in Show for Halloween pumpkin designs. After scouring the web for pieces that caught our eye, here are # of our favorite Halloween pumpkins. We hope you enjoy them and have a safe holiday. As a bonus (for those late to Halloween decorating), here are a few tips to carving a pumpkin.

via The Midwest Maven

1. Cut a Hole in the Pumpkin - The first step is hollowing out the pumpkin. Use a keyhole saw to cut the hole. If you’ll be using a candle for illumination, you can cut the hole in the pumpkin’s top (always put the candle in a high-sided glass, and never leave unattended). For electric lights, make the hole in the bottom or side so you can hide the cord.
2. Scoop Out the Flesh - Scoop out flesh, pulp, and seeds with a plaster scraper or fleshing tool.
3. Transfer Your Design - Now it’s time to transfer your selected designs (use one of our pumpkin templates or draw your own). Affix it to the pumpkin, and trace the design by poking holes with a sharp awl, needle tool, or T-pin.
4. Carve the Features - Remove the template and carve along the pattern with a miniature saw or linoleum carving tool. If you want to make holes in the pumpkin for eyes, use a drill equipped with a 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch spade bit.
5. (Optional) Light a Pumpkin - To illuminate a carved pumpkin, string lights are preferable to candles for most designs: Wrap a strand of 20 lights around a glass jar, and secure wires with tape. Cut a hole in the hollowed-out pumpkin for the cord, and place jar inside. Unplug lights before leaving the house or going to sleep. If using a candle, place it in a glass or votive holder, and cut a hole in the back of the pumpkin for ventilation (or leave the top off).Battery-operated candles are another good alternative.

Oprah Winfrey (via Cafe Mom’s The Stir)

Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher (via Cafe Mom’s The Stir)

Steve Jobs designed by Alex Wer (via Art Lyst)

Stewie Griffin (via Be Designful)

Marilyn Monroe (via McZolton Flickr)