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Pumpkin Carving

© Angelica R. Van Norman

As the weather cools, and the vibrancy of autumn colors our world, we head out to collect the last fruits of our gardens. And no other addition would reflect the essence of the season more than the pumpkin. Even if you haven't had the joy of watching this large orange fruit grow in your backyard, you know that soon enough the kids will be pleading for a trip to the local pumpkin farm to pick out their prized pumpkin. And I tend to think that every pumpkin is waiting to be chosen, hoping to become a traditional Halloween Jack-o-Lantern!

Pumpkin Carving Checklist

1. Carving Pattern/Template (if desired) 2. Sharp knives or carving tools 3. Gutting Spoons/Scoop 4. Newspaper 5. Large bowl or trash can

If you are looking to carve an intricate design into your pumpkin, try the Pumpkin Carving Patterns Page or the By-roads Jack-0-Lantern Carving Patterns . Other pattern and template sites can be found in the Links section.

Pumpkin Masters has created pumpkin carving kits, complete with everything you need to create masterpiece carvings.

Pumpkin Carving Tips

1. Spread plenty of newspaper on the area you will be working in. Pumpkin carving can be messy!

2. Be sure to cut a large enough hole around the stem of the pumpkin so you can reach inside and scrape the insides.

3. Scrape the insides as cleanly as possible. Any strings or seeds left inside could catch on fire if you put a candle inside to light up your carving.

4. Be creative with your carving. Use toothpicks or nails to outline your design.

5. Use extreme caution with knives or carving tools, Children should have parental supervision.

6. To keep your Jack-o-lantern lasting several days longer, coat it (inside and out) with a light layer of petroleum jelly immediately after carving. This slows the dehydration process that causes shriveling of the pumpkin.

Take all the necessary steps to keep your pumpkin carving adventure safe, but most of all - keep it fun! Try not to waste all the seeds that come from inside your pumpkin. Roasted pumpkin seeds are easy and the perfect snack. Or save a few to plant in your garden for next years pumpkins.

Did you know that the world's largest pumpkin weighed 1,061 pounds? That's alot of pumpkin seeds! Happy Halloween!

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