Keep Things Clean and Safe
It is that time of year when people are carving up a perfectly good fruit and turning it into art. It’s all in name of Halloween and it is kind of fun! Pumpkins really are a fruit and there are a number of great dishes that can be made. However, thousands are carved up into wonderful artistic creations. Why not, its a family tradition.Here some some friendly tips on how to turn your orange fruit into a piece of art.- Select the right pumpkinA pumpkin prime for carving should be big enough that you can get hands inside to prepare the pumpkin. It should have a flat bottom so the jack-o-lantern sits evenly. A sturdy stem is a sign of a healthy pumpkin. That will give the carved pumpkin a longer shelf life after it has been carved.Make sure the fruit is not bruised.- Have the right tools for carving pumpkinsThere is a lot of equipment that can help make carving a pumpkin go more smoothly. Gather the following supplies.*small ice cream scoop*strainer (to collect pumpkin seeds for roasting)* table cloth (to contain the mess)* bleach* large tub for soaking* petroleum jelly* sharp straight edged knife* X-Acto knife* template (you can make your own)- Plan plenty of timeThere are several steps in carving a pumpkin and it takes time. There is at least two hours of down time while the pumpkin is soaking. Make sure to have the proper arrangements for the down time. (Maybe preparing the pumpkin seeds for roasting).- Rookie mistakeThis is a rookie mistake, but it may help someone. Be certain to cut the top of the pumpkin off in a cone shape. The pumpkin lid will fall inside the jack-o-lantern if this is done incorrectly.- Smooth the back wallThe light of the candle reflects off of the back wall of pumpkin. The smother the wall, the better reflection for the jack-o-lantern.- Soak the pumpkinA moist pumpkin keeps its shape. It will look better and last longer. After the pumpkin is scraped, it should be soaked for at least two hours in a bleach and water solution.
- Drill holes before cuttingDrilling small holes as template keeps the cutting on track and simple. Even the most intricate patterns become easy this way.- Cover the cut areaUse the petroleum jelly to wipe the cut edges. This seals in the moisture. It is a handy trick.- Carve away from yourselfThis is the safest way to carve. It is also a good idea to begin with the inside features of the face and carve to the outside.- Repair mistakesMistakes can be repaired with pumpkin shell and toothpicks.- Just have fun. Perfection is not a requirement.
