For everyone who is visiting to see the pumpkins, welcome. (And for the rest of you who remember when I used to draw, I'm sorry!!! I'm trying to make more stuff, I swear!)

For those of you finding your way here due to the fall holiday, I'm going to post a small FAQ, so I'm not typing the same answers all season.

1. That's a real pumpkin?
Yes, these are actual carvings on real pumpkins.

2. What tools do you use?
I use a combination of sharpie markers, knives, and linoleum scrapers, cotton swabs, and a few secret things to achieve the effects and details. I'll also use strange things I have on hand. (For example, the point of light on Zero's nose was made by pushing a Tootsie Roll stick through the pumpkin. No lie, I had one in my pocket that day.)

3. How long did those take?
Some take longer than others. Usually an hour or less to draw on the image, then anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to carve, generally. I'm picky so I'll tend to rework some.

4. Why did you make these?
I was helping out my cousin, who works for a large pumpkin show. All the pumpkins in this gallery were made two years ago in 2007 for the Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular in Pawtucket, RI, except for Green Man, which I made for my husband.

5. Will you be making more?
I don't know. I haven't been asked back to the show yet. If I am then yes. If not, then probably not more than one or two if I have the time. (I rarely have the time.)

6. How long do they last?
Depending on the weather, once they're hollowed out they can last anywhere from several days to a week.

7. What's your process?
I transfer the design I want on my pumpkin with a light projector, or if I want to, free hand. Then I use a cotton swab and sharpie markers to create the darkest darks and different shades and tones. I start to lightly work into the pumpkin with cutting tools to define the light parts. The brighter the area, the deeper you go. Once the design is finished, the pumpkin is hollowed out and lit by placing the pumpkin over a light.

That's all I can think of at the moment. If I missed anything feel free to ask, and I'll add it on. Thank you for all your praise and comments, they're always a lot of fun to read. Happy Fall!