Carving a jack-o-lantern with some triangle eyes and a toothy grin is like sooo 1994. Pumpkin carving is still cool, but you’ve gotta impress your friends and family members with intricate, creative designs. Here are some ideas:

1. YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS TEAMS. I’m getting a bit tired of all the Facebook News Feed and Twitter updates about college football, MLB and the NFL — but I have to admit that carving “Go Bills” (or whoever) into a pumpkin is a cool way to show your team spirit. Beginners can try just the words, or if you’re more advanced you can go for a logo like this one. Maybe I’ll do the Dillon Panthers from Friday Night Lights!

2. Cartoon Characters. Bessed.com has a list of great pumpkin carving stencil sites with many characters, from Spongebob to Snoopy (my fave!). You do have to pay for some of them, but many will only run you a couple bucks.

3. Funny Sayings. Make your neighbors laugh with a pumpkin that says “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Easter,” or perhaps something a bit more R-rated.

4. Celebrities. Last year, Obama pumpkins were all the rage. (Here are some good political ones.) This year, Michael Jackson is a big hit. You might also carve up Jennifer Aniston or the timeless Mona Lisa. Bonus points to anyone who combines Kanye and Taylor Swift on one pumpkin!

5. Extreme Designs. Who says you have to stick with just one pumpkin – or even just pumpkins at all? Multiple pumpkins can be formed into a fun design, like this dragon or this giant pumpkin with hands. You can also add other objects to make something completely new, like this hilarious burger. Martha Stewart also has some great, decorative ideas.

And if the gooey orange stuff is too messy for you, carve a virtual pumpkin online!