A flotilla of apples bobbing in a steel tub evokes memories of childhood and headlong plunges into icy water. But carved into holiday candleholders, these apple votives are a prize for the eyes alone, their flames a promise of warmth.

Crafts enthusiasts have long known that a potato can be cut in half, carved into a stamp, and used to decorate everything from cards to cloth. Another idea is to use an apple and allow its natural shape to be the dominant decorative motif.

Use the surplus from apple season to make tabletop decorations.

Use a Lady apple to stamp pumpkins onto treat bags.

These shrunken heads, made from peeled, carved, and dried apples, are as spooky as the scariest Halloween masks -- and just as much fun to create.

A wicked twist on the Halloween tradition of bobbing for apples leaves creepy faces floating in cider punch; this trick is sure to surprise and delight party guests.

Apples aren't just for eating. The cut side of an apple half, dipped in candy-colored paint, can be stamped onto otherwise ordinary canvas tote bags and backpacks.

Use paper and an apple craft punch to create a frame for displaying school-day memories.

Made with marzipan apples, these apple cupcakes with cream cheese frosting will be gobbled up quickly.

Dress up diminutive pears and apples as ghosts and jack-o'-lanterns.