The Article
Lay down plastic sheeting or cut open a large garbage bag. Lay on a flat surface and then put plenty of layers of newspaper or kraft paper on top. Use about 4-5 sheets thick because cleaning the pumpkins can get really messy. Don't just use plastic, the surface is too slippery. You want a sturdy, dry surface to begin working on your pumpkin masterpieces.
Lay out all your tools so you can see what you have. Hand drills, exacto knives, picks, or a complete pumpkin carving kit (found at any national retailer and even grocery chains for $2-$4).
Some say you should cut the pumpkin open from the bottom, instead of the top to clean it. If appropriate to the design, we agree. Many designs get near the top, and when cutting the top you end up dropping or sliding your design down lower on the pumpkin face. You decide what works best for you by placing your design template on the pumpkin BEFORE you begin cutting. How you are going to illuminate your pumpkin may also affect your decision.
Once you have decided which way to cut and clean your pumpkin, go to it. Remember, the seeds are fabulous toasted. Click here for a pumpkin seed recipe.
Now that you have a clean pumpkin slate, carefully pin or attach your design template onto your pumpkin and outline it with a pick, pen or other desired tool.
When cutting, remember patience is absolutely required. When nearing edges, like eye corners, use small steady cuts, sometimes reversing the direction of the cut can work wonders. Also, snip off or cut off sections that begin to weigh down as you work.
If you stop for any extended time while carving, place your pumpkin in a cool area, moving temporarily to the fridge if needed.
Enjoy your creation, make the best of it by including the entire family in making their own creation. It's a family tradition you and your family will cherish for years.
More Details
|
|
Halloween has quickly outpaced a number of
holidays with the choice of decorations available to express your
fancy. We have a 200 square foot area just to store our collection
of Halloween
decorations. Last year, I didn't even get them all out in time. Join with us
at Halloween at Home for great ideas on decorating for your next
Halloween party.
|
 Planning a Halloween Party can be as much fun
as the event itself. The keyword here is 'planning'. You can't
expect to have a good party without getting a good start on the
holiday by formulating a party plan. I'm talking about months, not
weeks!
Click here for a guide to planning YOUR
next Halloween party.
|
 What is Halloween without candy? Well for
one, the kids would be really confused. How do you incorporate
healthy eating habits during Halloween?
Visit our recipes section for
treats AND meals that will please mom and her little spooks.
|
|
Halloween safety is very important. See our
top 25 tips for keeping your little ones safe on Halloween.
Click here for our tips.
|
|
