Choosing the right pumpkin
Making the correct decision when picking a pumpkin is an important Halloween party decision. A perfect punkin' will equate to the perfect palate for your Ghoulish designs.
Here's some tips for patch picking:
1) Make sure to select a pumpkin that will fit to your creative needs. This means to think about size, shape, and texture to ensure the creation in your head can be tranformed from the pumpkin you purchase. Some people like big honkin' pumpkins for elaborate and intricate designs. Medium size pumpkins are the norm and can work well for simpler, kid friendly carvings.
2) Look the pumpkin over. Watch for any rotting or soft spots that will decrease the lifespan of the pumpkin. Also look for a pumpkin that has a flat bottom and will stand up on its on weight. A stem is also helpful for transportation and using as a cap when a Jack - O - Latern.
Tools of the Trade
Most of what you will need to carve a pumpkin can be found in the kitchen or the garage. It may be helpful to purchase a cheap plastic carving kit from your locale grocer, but it isn't necessary.
Here's what needed:
- A large, metal spoon
- A sharp, serrated knife (supervise children!)
- A stack of newspapers
- A black magic marker
- Optional: paints, toothpicks, stencils, or other decorations
Getting started
Carving a pumpkin is easy! Just follow these easy steps:
1) Sitting the pumpkin upright, take the knife and carefully puncture the pumpkin top until you feel you have entered the pumpkin cavity. Then slowly carve the top of the pumpkin until TADA! the top comes off. Remove the excess goo from the lid.
2) Place the pumpkin on the newspaper and pick up the spoon. Begin to remove the seeds and pulp from the pumpkin and dump onto the newspaper. The seeds can be saved for eating later. Yum!
3) Now the fun begins. Here you can start to carve your creation into the face of the Jack - O - Latern. Use the black magic marker to draw out eyes, noses, and mouthes for easier cutting.
4)Place a candle into the bottom of the pumpkin and enjoy! (Note: Please have some sense and do not leave the candle burning!)
Other helpful hints
- Put vegetable oil over all exposed areas to keep the feller fresher.
- Don't leave your masterpiece on the front porch. Or your creation will come to a crash by the hands of some smart ass kids.
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