So how do you carve a traditional Jack O' Lantern? Well let me tell you how........
Firstly you're going to need some basic tools - A large scooping item like an ice cream scoop or large spoon, and now this bit is for grown ups only as it involves a long, sharp, thin-bladed knife. Maybe put some newspaper down as well, that way no-one can shout at you for making a mess while you stand there admiring your handy work!!
Oh, and you'll also need a fairly large pumpkin - quite important that part!!!
Right then, lets get started.
place your pumpkin on the newspaper, and with the thin-bladed knife, cut out the top of the pumpkin around the stem, making sure you have a big enough hole for scooping. Don't damage that bit you just cut off though - remember that's going to be your lid, so make sure you get the size of the hole right. The best size is about 2/3rds of the diameter of the pumpkin itself.
It's actually a little easier if you cut the hole (lid) out as a hexagonal shape rather than a circle. Make sure that you angle the knife slightly as you do this too, this will stop the lid from falling in when you sit it back on the top.
Once you've carved a lovely attractive lid / hole in the top, you can scoop out the soft part with your hand and with a spoon or scoop. Once most of it is out, use a large spoon to scrape the insides clean.
Choosing the best and of course most attractive side of your pumpkin, decide what sort of face you want to carve, do you want a scary pumpkin, or do you want to go for a more lovable approach?
HP Creative Studio Templates
Spooky Templates
More Spooky Templates
Here's are some more free templates from The Pumpkin Lady
So now you've chosen your design.........I hope. Either pre- mark the pattern out using a crayon, or if you're feeling clever, just go for it!
Using the sharp knife, cut out your pattern, then when you're finished, carefully push the pieces out to see your final master piece.
Finally, make sure the inside is scrapped flat on the bottom so that your candle doesn't fall over. Put your pumpkin in prime position. Safely add your candle, which may be placed inside a clear candle glass if you wish. Light it up and there you go..........whoooh!!!
