Nothing says it's fall better than a crafty, carved pumpkin at your front door to greet friends through the season and Trick-or-Treaters on Halloween night. Here are a few tips and tricks to help make your carving simpler and more fun this Halloween.
Picking the Perfect Pumpkin
If you want your pumpkin to last all throughout October, it is best to check for any bruises on the pumpkin or moldy stems. You wouldn't want to put all that time into decorating a pumpkin for nothing! Also, a large pumpkin is much easier to carve than a small one. Look for pumpkins with a light color, since they tend to be softer and easier to carve, as well.
Preparing Your Pumpkin
The first step is to cut out the lid at the top of the pumpkin so you can remove the seeds and smooth the inside of the pumpkin. It is important to place your knife at a 45-degree angle when cutting the lid so that you're able to replace it later on. Once the lid is off, use a large metal serving spoon to scoop out the seeds. If you love pumpkin seeds, roast them later for a healthy snack! After the pumpkin is cleaned, cover the interior with petroleum jelly to prevent mold and dehydration. Also, occasionally spraying your pumpkin with a bottle filled with a little bit of bleach and water helps to prolong the life of your pumpkin.
Carving Your Pumpkin
Choosing an intricate design for your pumpkin may seem like a great idea, but can be a pain to do if you're not an expert carver. Choosing a simple, fun design makes carving more enjoyable. You can draw your own design, or find one online to print out. Cut out the outline and tape it on to the pumpkin. Use a marker to trace the outline. Use a safe, serrated knife so that you can easily cut through the thick flesh of the pumpkin. Take your time carving for the perfect finished product!
Decorating Alternatives
If you want avoid the hassle of carving, try a nonconventional way of decorating your pumpkin. Buy fun fall color spray paints to easily paint your pumpkin in no time at all. Make sure that you are in a well-ventilated area first, then hold your pumpkin by its stem and spray the entire surface. Wait for the pumpkin to dry, and then apply a second coat. Don't want to use spray paint? Purchase some acrylic paint to create your own designs!
Lighting your Pumpkin the Safe Way
It's important to be cautious when choosing a way to illuminate your pumpkin. Candles can be dangerous if left unattended, so think about choosing an alternative. Battery-operated flameless candles or rainbow LEDs are safe ways to light your pumpkin. If you really like to use candles though, votive candles in a glass holder or tea lights in a metal case are a good option. Make sure though to cut a hole in the back of pumpkin to act as a chimney for smoke to go out of. Never leave a lit candle unattended!
A Pumpkin Air Freshener
If you're tired of the harsh scent of some store bought air fresheners, there are a few easy steps to follow to transform your pumpkin into an all-natural air freshener. Take your cleaned out pumpkin, and cut holes into the pumpkin so it can vent. An apple peeler is a great tool to use when doing this. Next rub your favorite seasonal spices inside the pumpkin such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice. Use votive candles in a glass holder or tea lights in a metal case, and enjoy the seasonal scents. Remember, never leave a candle unattended!
