Toothy grins and a mesmerizing
orange glow help make jack-o'-
lanterns captivating sights come
Halloween. Pumpkin carving is
an autumn tradition and runs the
gamut of simple designs to more
intricate artwork worthy of any
medium. Although anyone can grab
a pumpkin and get started, when
done correctly, jack-o'-lantern
designs can last for several days.
• Start with a fresh pumpkin.
Look for pumpkins that have a thick,
green stem. These usually are fresh
and haven't been handled much.
A thick stem also may indicate
fleshier pumpkin walls that can be
carved more easily. Avoid pumpkins
that are soft or full of blemishes,
or those that have dried, shriveled
stems.
• Cut a hole in the back. Rather
than impeding the structural
integrity of the pumpkin by
cutting off the top and the stem
for interior access, cut a hole in the
back of the pumpkin. This will still
make it easy to reach inside and
clean out the pumpkin.
• Scoop out the pulp and seeds.
Be sure to thoroughly clean the
inside of the pumpkin. Leaving the
pulpy, stringy matter and seeds
inside can cause the pumpkin to rot
that much faster and produce a foul
odor. Scoopers, spoons and even
hand shovels can help.
• Keep it cool. Heat can adversely
affect carved pumpkins, so work in
a cool area and store the pumpkin
in a cold garage or refrigerator if
you need a few extra days before
displaying it. Also, carving experts
suggest using an electric light inside
rather than a candle; by using a
candle, you're essentially cooking
the pumpkin from the inside.
• Work in your lap. When carving
Jack 'N Jill
o'lanterns
A few tips for carving
the perfect pumpkin
Special to Official Kids Mag
10 • Off icial Kids Mag • OC T & NOV 2018
