Turning a pumpkin into a jack-o'-lantern is something that is fun for everyone. Whether you are carving your first pumpkin or reliving childhood memories, carving a pumpkin can be great family fun. Following a few simple steps will ensure carving success.
First, you need to choose a good pumpkin. Deciding ahead of time what your final jack-o'-lantern will look like will allow you to pick a pumpkin whose shape will compliment your design. Look for a pumpkin that will not roll over when sitting on a flat surface. Your pumpkin should be free from abrasions or scratches.
It is also good to have a stem of at least a couple inches to allow you to be able to pull off the top more easily once you have cut open the top of your pumpkin. You don't need to worry about any dirt on your pumpkin as that can be wiped off at home with a damp cloth.
Next, you need to have a design for you pumpkin and the proper carving tools. You may simply draw a traditional jack-o'-lantern face on your pumpkin with a dry erase marker. These markers can be easily wiped off if you make a mistake and would like to redraw your design.
You may also choose a more elaborate way to carve your pumpkin. You may purchase stencils online or at most stores. The tools you will need to carve your pumpkin will depend on the elaborateness of your design. For a more simple, traditional carving, you will need a paring knife to cut the pumpkin and a large spoon to clean out the inside of the pumpkin. For a more elaborate carving job you will also need a artists stylus or an awl.
Once you are ready to begin carving, place your pumpkin on surface covered with newspapers. You may want to wear an apron or clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. Start by cutting a lid in your pumpkin; a circle around the stem of your pumpkin. Including a small notch in the circle will allow you to more easily reposition your lid when done.
Once the lid is cut, simply remove it from the pumpkin and remove any pulp hanging from the lid. Remove the pulp from the inside of the pumpkin and discard. The more light you wish to shine through you pumpkin the more of the pumpkin you need to scrape away.
You are now ready to carve your pumpkin. Simply draw your design on your pumpkin or attach your stencil using tape. If you are using a stencil you will use your awl to transfer the design to your pumpkin. Whatever your design, cut it out once it is on your pumpkin. Take your time so that you don't make mistakes.
Once your pumpkin is carved, you are ready to display your jack-o'-lantern. A thin layer of petroleum jelly applied to all cut surfaces will keep the pumpkin from drying out. Use a short candle like a tea light to light your pumpkin or you can purchase a light designed to light jack-o'-lanterns. Set your pumpkin out for all to see and enjoy your jack-o'-lantern.