Before you learn how to carve a pumpkin, there are some important things you should look for when finding the perfect carving pumpkin. Here is a handy checklist for you:
- Picking out a pumpkin at a produce stand or local grocery store is easier than picking out one from a pumpkin patch. These places generally have good pumpkins just ripe for the picking.
- Check all sides of your pumpkin, looking to see if there are any soft spots. This is especially important if picking your pumpkin right off the ground at a pumpkin patch.
- See if your pumpkin will sit upright without tipping over. You cannot have a successful Jack O Lantern, if he is going to fall over all the time.
- Make sure the stem on your pumpkin is sturdy. A missing or loose stem is not ideal for carving.
- Be sure to place your pumpkin in a cool and dry environment before carving. This helps maintain its freshness before you begin carving.
Tools for the Pumpkin Carving
You need a set of tools to help you carve pumpkins. Sharp objects should be handled by adults only You can purchase carving tools at a local discount store for between $15.00-$25.00.
You probably have most of the tools right in your kitchen, which include:
- Long, thin bladed knife:This cuts away the top of the pumpkin at the stem and large parts of the Jack O Lantern face or design.
- Paring knife: Great for the smaller, more detailed portions of the face or design.
- X-Acto knife: Good for cutting out patterns (see patterns below).
- Ice cream scooper: Perfect for gutting out the pumpkin.
Also make sure you have covered your work space with plenty of newspaper or butcher paper. It will be very messy.
Lighting the Jack O Lantern
One of the best choices for lighting your carved pumpkin is a votive candle placed in a clear glass. This makes lighting your Jack O Lantern safer and will help the pumpkin last longer. A tea-light candle works well for smaller pumpkins. Of course, manufacturers have come out with lights for pumpkins, which you can purchase, but these will cost a bit more than buying your own candles. They come in different designs to choose from.
Making the Carved Pumpkin Last
To preserve your carved pumpkin, you will want to soak it in cold water for at least an hour after it has been carved. Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) can be rubbed on the edges where the pumpkin is carved to help prevent shriveling.
Pumpkin Faces Slide Show
Check out Pumpkin Faces for a cool slide show of how one person carved his pumpkins. It is truly unbelievable what you can do with a pumpkin! Once you reach this page, you will need to click on the Pumpkin Faces link to take you to the slide show.
Check out the cool patterns below. Feel free to print and use them on your Jack O Lantern!
Denise Oliveri - Denise has been writing for Suite101 for many years, and enjoys sharing her experiences and knowledge with readers. Her main occupation at ...
