How to Make a Pretty Fretwork Pumpkin

Directions

1. Set the pumpkin on a stack of newspaper. Using a sharp knife or pumpkin saw, carve a large opening in the base of the pumpkin. Scoop out all the interior flesh and seeds with a large serving spoon.
2. Wrap a strip of painter's tape around the middle of the pumpkin. Then apply a second strip about 2 inches above the first one.
3. With a large drill bit, bore a row of holes just below the top piece of tape. Drill another row of large holes just above the bottom piece of tape. Remove both strips of tape, then drill a third row of large holes directly above the first top row.
4. Switch to a smaller drill bit and drill tiny holes in the spaces between and above each large hole, going all around the pumpkin. Drill a final row of tiny holes below the bottom row of large ones. Each small hole should be positioned exactly between and slightly above or below its neighboring large holes.
5. Wipe away any pumpkin residue and skin from the drilled holes using a paper towel and Q-tips. Position the pumpkin over a votive holder containing a lit votive candle or an LED candle.