While carving kits with stencils and sculpting tools are becoming more popular, they limit your choice of pumpkins, can be expensive and impractical for child participation. On the other hand, nothing is as fun as making a good old fashioned Jack of the Lantern! The following tools are all that is necessary to make your main Halloween accessory a hit!
1. A Pumpkin! Unless you are using a carving kit, any size pumpkin will do. Just make sure there isn't any damage to the outside and it sits solidly upright.
2. Washable Marker or Fingerpaint. Even when using traditional tools, your younger children might be safer away from the actual carving process. It all depends on age and activity level and how many other hands are available to help. This doesn't mean they have to be left out of the process. Instead of stopping your outline with a black magic marker, allow your little ones to make a full face on the pumpkin using safe crafting supplies.
3. Newspaper. Carving a pumpkin can offer your child several lessons in learning to recycle. Old newspaper that usually is thrown out can be used to protect your table, floor or patio.
4. Sharp, straight-edged knife. PARENTS ONLY! You can cut around the stem, or around the bottom, just make sure to tilt the handle of your knife outward. This will keep the top from falling in or allow you to life the pumpkin off it's base.
5. Large Scoop or Spoon. This is the fun part for kids. Using their hands they will be able to take out many of the seeds and general "pumpkin goop". Older children and adults can use a spoon to scrape away the inside of the pumpkin. A good thickness is 1" ... slightly thicker if you already have cold weather.
6. Potato Peeler/Xacto Knife. You can make your face with a sharp knife, but some people find them cumbersome. Traditional Jack O'Lanterns don't have to look shoddy. There are plenty of items already around the house you can use to spruce things up a bit. When making the face however, try to start at the center and work your way out. This helps center your design, and gives you plenty of room for making mistakes.
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