 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
If you're planning on carving a pumpkin year after year then I strongly suggest that you put together a pumpkin carving toolbox. Its not absolutely essential but it does make the job a lot easier. If you don't put one together you should at the very least pick up a Pumpkin Masters Kit, available at most of the discount stores such as Walmart. In addition to carving jack o' lanterns out of organic pumpkins, you can also carve them out of the foam pumpkins you find at craft stores.
When you go to the Pumpkin Patch, be sure to choose a pumpkin that is a nice, round shape with an even orange color. Remember that the larger the pumpkin is the thicker its walls will be which means more work for you to thin it out for carving. Avoid pumpkins with blemishes all around it. On one side is fine but any more than that and it can be a pain for doing the design. Also check to see if the pumkin sits level. If it doesn't you're going to want to avoid it.
If at all possible carve the pumpkin only a few days in advance. If you carve it any more in advance of the date you will want to preserve the pumpkin as much as possible by placing it in the refrigerator. If you don't have any room in the 'fridge you can lather a layer of petroleum jelly on the insides of the pumpkin and wrap the pumpkin in plastic wrap. Be sure to keep the pumpkin out of direct sunlight as much as possible. You can also submerge the pumpkin in water to refresh it. Additionally there are several commercial Pumpkin Preservation options such as Pumpkin Preservation Spray available.
Step 1: Open up your pumpkin. I suggest cutting the opening on an angle and in the shape of an octagon. This serves as a key for the pumkin to make it easier to line up the top of the pumpkin.
Step 2: Scoop out the pulp and seeds. Make sure to use the spoon or scoop to thin out the wall that the design will go on.
Step 3: Tape your pattern to the pumpkin and poke around the design. You can use either the Pumpkin Master's designs or draw your own onto paper.
Step 4: Rub down the outside of the pattern with flour to make the holes more distinctive. Start carving out the design, from the inside of the pattern outwards.
Step 5: Drill a chimney hole in the lid of the pumpkin to help vent the heat of the pumpkin. If you don't plan on using a candle, you can skip this step. Light your new Jack O' Lantern and enjoy Halloween!