Carved Watermelon Centerpiece
Design & Instructions by Pattie Donham, Host of Craft Studios

Stencils aren't just for painting, as you can see when you make this Carved Watermelon Centerpiece, just perfect for a picnic.

Supplies:
Watermelon
Plate (for the finished centerpiece)
Bowl (the size of the opening you desire)
Marker
Sharp Kitchen Knife
Rounded Carving Tool (for pumpkin carving, or rubberstamp carving)
I used a Staedtler Rubber Stamp Carving Tool #5U
Daisy Stencil - Disposable Peel & Stick Stencils by Delta
Recycled Plastic Shopping Bags
Potted Plant

Steps:
1. Place the watermelon on a plate to determine the best way for it to look, and for it to sit balanced when completed.

2. Turn the bowl upside down over the top of the watermelon. Draw a line with the marker around the edge of the bowl.

3. Cut the top off the watermelon (along the mark) and set aside. Scoop out the watermelon and place in a serving bowl.

4. Using a curved carving tool, carve out slits around the edge of the opening to create a ruffled design.

5. Stick the stencil to the front of the watermelon. Carve out the openings of the daisy design with the carving tool. Peel away the stencil. Repeat all the way around the watermelon. The melon will keep well in the refrigerator for 24 hours.

6. Fill the carved watermelon with plastic shopping bags, and then place a potted plant in the opening to complete.

PattieWack Tip:
Use the top of the watermelon that you set aside, to practice your carving techniques. If it looks good, lay it in a decorative bowl and stick fruit chunks into it with fancy toothpicks!