How to Carve a Pumpkin For Halloween

Directions

1. Cover your work area with newspaper for easier cleanup.
2. Select a pumpkin at least 12 inches tall with smooth skin, a sturdy stem, a hollow sound when tapped, and no soft spots. Ensure it sits upright.
3. Draw a circle, pentagon, or hexagon on the top, at least 1 to 2 inches from the stem. Cut at an angle with the knife tip pointing toward the center so the lid won't fall in. Keep the knife in the cut until you've gone all the way around.
4. Remove the lid and use a spoon to scoop out the pulp and seeds. Optionally, scrape the carving area to make it thinner.
5. Carve a small indentation in the bottom to hold a candle, but avoid making the pumpkin too thin there.
6. Choose a design. For a stencil, either cut it out and tape it onto the pumpkin to trace with a marker, or use a needle or poking tool to outline the design by poking holes.
7. Begin carving from the center of the design. Score the lines a few times with the knife tip before inserting it, then make many small cuts. Push the cut pieces out from the inside. If you accidentally cut a piece off, use toothpicks to 'sew' it back in place.
8. Place a candle inside, light it, replace the lid, turn off the lights, and display. Ensure enough airflow for the candle to stay lit.
9. To extend the life of your jack-o-lantern, apply Vaseline to all cut surfaces, keep it out of direct sunlight, store in the fridge or a cool dark place when not displayed, and soak in water if it becomes dehydrated.