Use augmented reality stencils this year to carve your pumpkin

Beyoncé fan? Love artist Edvard Munch’s “The Scream?”

The Boo-yonce and “Scream” pumpkin carving stencils might be just what you’re looking for this Halloween. Whether you’re an experienced carver or a newbie, it all starts with the design. In addition, we’re offering an octopus and a funny face. Use our augmented-reality app to pick a stencil on your phone and click a button to make the illustration project on your pumpkin. Then draw the outline and then carve away.

Download The Washington Post Classic iOS app to use this feature. Or if you’d rather go old-school, you can download and print the stencils at the bottom of this page.

Instructions for carving a pumpkin using the stencil app:

1. Start with a medium-to-large pumpkin that has smooth ridges, preferably one with a flat base so it’s easier to display. Set it on a table for easier carving.

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2. Cut a hole at the top of the pumpkin and scoop out the flesh, seeds and pulp.

3. You’re ready to select your stencil. Click on the Start button. Choose one of the stencils at the bottom of the screen. Using your phone like a camera, pointing it at the pumpkin. Move the image around and make it bigger or smaller until you like the placement and size. Click the Stick Stencil to Pumpkin button and continue to hold your phone in one hand. With the other hand, trace the design you see on your phone onto the pumpkin with a permanent marker. You may need a helper.

4. Carve along the template with a knife until you’ve completed the design. Display your creation and post on Instagram and tag @washingtonpostdesign.

Illustrations by Sam Island for The Washington Post

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