Clean the pumpkin and soak it in water overnight Scrub the dirt off your pumpkins with a coarse sponge, then soak your pumpkins in a bucket of water for about 8 hours or overnight. This will allow the pumpkins to soak up water and firm up, making it easier to carve them and making them last longer once they are carved.
What are some good Pumpkin Carving ideas?
Pumpkin Carving Ideas – Awesome Jack O Lanterns!
- Jack O Lantern – A Little Background. Jack O Lanterns are well known as emblems of Halloween. ...
- Cool Pumpkin Carving Ideas. Once you have completed your Jack O Lantern, try adding some dry ice to give it this cool pumpkin effect.
- Scary Jack O Lanterns. ...
- Funny Pumpkin Carving Ideas. ...
- Easy Pumpkin Carving Ideas. ...
How to pick the perfect pumpkin for carving?
How to Pick a Pumpkin
- Pumpkins are ready to harvest when the vines start to dry up and the pumpkins turn the expected color—orange, white, or a hybrid. ...
- A fully mature pumpkin should be hard enough for short-term storage. ...
- Carefully check the pumpkin for soft spots and dark bruises. ...
- Never pick up or carry a pumpkin by its stem. ...
What tools are needed to carve a pumpkin?
- A serrated knife that has a thin blade and about 6 to 8-inches long works well. ...
- To remove the pulp inside, a large spoon or ice cream scooper can help scrape the pumpkin walls.
- An X-ACTO knife, edge razor blade, or paring knife can help score the design.
- A power drill can also be used to make holes and cut through giant pumpkins with thick walls.
How to decorate a pumpkin without carving it?
- Read the label on the spray paint to find out how far from the surface you should hold the can. ...
- Turn a triangular pumpkin into a candy corn by painting the bottom orange, the middle yellow, and the top white.
- Create a color-blocked pumpkin by masking off half of it with painter's tape. ...
Why do you put Vaseline on a pumpkin?
Petroleum jelly is a great way to keep your carved pumpkins from drying out and getting that wrinkly look. It's water-repellant, so it seals in the natural moisture while keeping outside moisture away. Spread the petroleum jelly inside your pumpkin and around all of the cut out areas.
How do you prepare a pumpkin before carving?
For longer life, soak the cleaned pumpkin a couple of hours in a solution of bleach and water: 1 teaspoon bleach to 1 gallon of water. Dry thoroughly, then rub the pumpkin inside and out with vegetable oil or petroleum jelly to prevent shriveling. Apply to the cut edges, too.
Should I soak a pumpkin before carving?
Turns out, a bleach soak is the internet's most popular way to preserve both whole and carved pumpkins. Before you do anything, make sure you have a pair of gloves on.
Is it better to carve pumpkin from top or bottom?
0:030:42Why you should always carve a pumpkin from the bottom - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd not from the top. So just cut the bottom out. It's all cut out.MoreAnd not from the top. So just cut the bottom out. It's all cut out.
How do you smooth out a pumpkin?
You can use the same scoop you used before, or use a flat scraping tool that can be found in some pumpkin carving kits ($15, Amazon). Scrape the pumpkin sides until it is completely clear of all strings and extra loose material—this allows for a smooth, clean cut when you start carving a design into the pumpkin.
How do professionals carve pumpkins?
How to Carve Your Pumpkin Like a ProPlan the Carving Event for When You Have the Time.Think about Where to Make the Hole.Make a Plan.Draw the Design Directly Onto the Pumpkin.Start with Big Rough Cuts.Etching for Shading.Use Whatever Tools You Can Find to Do the Job.Light it Up Electrically.
Should I refrigerate my carved pumpkin?
4: Refrigerate Your Pumpkin If you can, refrigerating your pumpkin each night will go a long way in helping to rehydrate your carved pumpkin (and keep it away from any bugs or critters). This is an especially good idea if you live in a warmer climate.
Does Hairspray preserve pumpkins?
Spray it up: Hairspray and acrylic finish sprays can seal in a pumpkins freshness. They also prevent mold.
What do you spray carved pumpkins with?
Lubricating Your Pumpkin Petroleum jelly or vegetable oil will help keep the moisture in and keep your pumpkin looking good. Another option is to use a store-bought pumpkin preservative spray like Pumpkin Fresh, which contains fungicide (to kill the mold) and lubricants (to keep the pumpkin from drying out).
What is the best tool to use to carve a pumpkin?
Small paring knives are great for carving designs into the pumpkin. Pumpkin-carving kits, made specifically for kids or adults, are another good source. Battery-operated, pumpkin-carving knives also make quick work of even intricate designs.
How early can you carve pumpkins?
Ensure the pumpkin is still in peak freshness during the big event by waiting until three to five days before Halloween to carve your pumpkins. The best time to carve pumpkins is five to 10 days before Halloween. If you can't wait, you may be able to extend the pumpkin's lifespan with some preservation methods.
How long after you carve a pumpkin does it last?
between three to 14 daysA carved pumpkin will last anywhere between three to 14 days. This depends on a multitude of factors, but two weeks is definitely pushing the limit and assumes that you live in a colder climate.
How do you prepare a pumpkin for Halloween?
0:022:11How to Carve a Pumpkin like a Pro - Easy Halloween DIY by Warren NashYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThen using either a pencil or a pen mark where you're going to slice the top of the pumpkin off thenMoreThen using either a pencil or a pen mark where you're going to slice the top of the pumpkin off then using a sharp knife. And while securely holding the pumpkin carefully slice the top off.
How early can you carve pumpkins?
Ensure the pumpkin is still in peak freshness during the big event by waiting until three to five days before Halloween to carve your pumpkins. The best time to carve pumpkins is five to 10 days before Halloween. If you can't wait, you may be able to extend the pumpkin's lifespan with some preservation methods.
How do you scrape a pumpkin face?
1:567:43How to Carve Incredible Pumpkin Faces Ray Villafane Martha StewartYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYeah just kind of you know I usually pick a point that has a part of the pumpkin has a point. I needMoreYeah just kind of you know I usually pick a point that has a part of the pumpkin has a point. I need to scrape it off rust right. Right.
How do you cut the bottom of a pumpkin?
0:101:12STOP Cutting the Top - Halloween Pumpkin Carving Tips - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you'll only have to give your pumpkin a quick scrape on the inside. And if you're scooping theMoreSo you'll only have to give your pumpkin a quick scrape on the inside. And if you're scooping the goop grab an ice cream scoop from the kitchen to make the cleaning process simpler.
How do you prepare a pumpkin for carving?
Prepare your pumpkin by washing it and wiping it down to remove any dust that may have accumulated.
What is the best way to carve a pumpkin?
Watch our video guide to learn the best, beginner-friendly pumpkin-carving method.
How to scoop out a pumpkin?
How to scoop out a pumpkin? Well, it’s quite easy, just very messy! Put the lid aside and start removing the pumpkin seeds. They are all attached to each other in big stringy lumps, so dive in and pull them out. Set them aside in a container – we’ll keep them for later!
How to carve a pumpkin?
So, how do you carve a pumpkin? First, choose your pumpkin! Try to select a fresh pumpkin and one that is free from blemishes so that it lasts as long as possible . An older pumpkin won’t last as long – but would be ideal if you’re carving it the day or two before Halloween. If you’re not sure what size to go for, a football-sized pumpkin is a good place to start. To make sure you’re picking the best pumpkin, select one with an even colour all over and tap it with your knuckles. It should sound hollow. The outside of the pumpkin should feel ‘firm’ – if it feels soft then it won’t last as long. Make sure that your pumpkin has a sturdy stem and that it sits up properly so that it doesn’t roll over while you carve it . Once you’ve chosen your pumpkin, be sure to carry it by cradling it, rather than by the stem.
How to light a pumpkin with a tealight candle?
Now for the best part! Find a place to put your pumpkin and slip a tealight candle inside. Use a long match, wax lighting taper or long candle lighter to light the candle, then replace the lid. If you’ve carved a large mouth, you might find it easier to light the candle through the mouth. Now sit back and enjoy the spooky glow from all your hard work!
How to make a pumpkin owl?
Just grab two pumpkins (one large for the body, and one smaller for the head) and use toothpicks to join the two together.
What is the best place to start for a Halloween pumpkin carving?
For a spooky history of the Jack O’ Lantern and traditional Halloween pumpkin carving templates, Partyrama is a great place to start.
How to remove guts from pumpkin?
Remove the pumpkin filling (or guts, as I like to call them). Use a large spoon, scoop, or your hands for the tricky parts. Place the filling into a bowl and scrape the sides of the pumpkin for any remaining stubborn strands.
Can you use a real candle to light a pumpkin?
Congrats! Your pumpkin is carved! Pat yourself on the back for your hard work. All you need to do now is light your pumpkin. We prefer LED lights, since they’re safe and simple. If you choose to use a real candle, just don’t leave it lit overnight.
What is the best pumpkin for carving?
So, you're off to pick your pumpkin from the store or fresh from the patch. Or, maybe you've followed our tips on how to grow pumpkins and have some ready to go in your veg plot. Wherever you're sourcing it from, there are certain things to look out for.
What to do with carved pumpkins?
Carved pumpkins are a staple when it comes to outdoor Halloween decor ideas. They're the perfect way to pep up a porch or wall to give your garden an enchanting glow. And once you know how to do it, making them is a fun event in itself – especially when you get family or friends involved (alongside some on-theme refreshments, of course).
What can you do with the leftover pumpkin after you've finished carving?
So, you've learned how to carve a pumpkin. But what can you do with all the leftovers? It seems a shame to waste them, however research conducted by surplus food experts Too Good To Go has found that more than two thirds of Brits don’t know what to do with the leftover pumpkin flesh and seeds.
What knife do you use to cut a pumpkin?
When it comes to cutting your pumpkin, your usual kitchen knife is probably not the best option. Instead, choose a small, serrated knife with a short handle. Even better – invest in a pumpkin carving kit from the likes of Amazon (most will include a scooper or scraper too).
How to make a pumpkin hollow?
Use a large spoon to scoop out the innards, including all the seeds, making the pumpkin nice and hollow. Working in a spiral motion is generally the most effective way of doing this. Place these in a bowl to save for composting or using later.
How to make a pumpkin smell like autumn?
Try sprinkling a little cinnamon on the inside of your pumpkin once it's been carved, then blot with a paper towel so there's no excess (as this can be flammable). If you use a real tea light, your pumpkin will then offer a delicious autumnal scent once lit.
What color are ghost pumpkins?
Liam adds, 'Another great spooky alternative to the traditional orange pumpkins are ghost pumpkins which are white in color.'
Never be spooked by the prospect of carving again! Just use these simple tips to carve the pumpkin of your dreams
We carved this one ourselves in less than an hour! And by no means are we pumpkin carving experts.
Use your skewer, nail, or toothpick to poke holes around the edges of the pattern, like a connect-the-dots for where you want to carve
Don't worry about poking ~all the way through~ the pumpkin. You really just need to break the skin. (P.S. If you did grab a pumpkin carving kit, they usually come with a little pattern-poking tool, too.)
Why do you want to carve a pumpkin?
No matter how old you are, carving a pumpkin makes you feel like a kid again! Plus, it gives you a chance to get creative and show off your artistic side.
How to keep a pumpkin alive for Halloween?
If you’re really attached to your pumpkin, wrap it in plastic and refrigerate every night or try giving it an ice water bath to revive. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos so you’ll always remember this year’s masterpiece!
How to clean a pumpkin that is gloppy?
Clear off your table so you have room to work, and keep plenty of rags or paper towels nearby to sop up the gloppy mess.
Can you use a candle to light a pumpkin?
Once you’ve completed your masterpiece, set a battery-powered LED light inside your pumpkin. Of course, you can use a votive candle or tea light, but an LED is extra bright, safer, and longer-lasting, Evan says.
What to put on carved pumpkins to keep them from drying out?
Petroleum Jelly is a great little tip for preserving the life and look of your carved masterpiece. If you rub a little on the cut edges of the pumpkin, it will help keep them from drying out and shriveling up.
How to remove seeds from pumpkins?
To speed things up a bit, and create less mess, grab a beater from your hand mixer and attach it to a drill. Flip the switch and whirl it around the inside of the pumpkin. This action will grab and loosen all the insides so you can dump them into a bowl or the trash if you aren’t a pumpkin seed eater. If you are left with some stragglers, a metal ice cream scoop does a perfect job. It’s sturdier and deeper than a traditional spoon and way better than the plastic scoop that comes in a carving kit, and it will grab any lingering bits in a flash.
Is carving a pumpkin a tradition?
Carving a pumpkin is a Halloween tradition no one wants to skip, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to improve your Jack-O-Lantern routine. These helpful tips and techniques are sure to make your carving process easier (and prettier) this year.