Whether you want to start a tradition with your children or are looking to have a nostalgic party with friends, carving pumpkins is a great way to get into the fall spirit. Take a look at these tricks that will turn your pumpkin carving experience into a real treat!
- Prep your pumpkin Wash the outside of your pumpkin to remove any dirt then use a paper towel to give it a quick rub down with white vinegar. The natural antimicrobial properties of the vinegar will help it stay fresher for longer.
- Cut the opening in the bottom Instead of cutting a circle around the stem as an access point to the “guts” of your pumpkin, cut a hole into the bottom of the pumpkin. With the conventional top opening method, you run the risk of the pumpkin rotting and the top falling into the center by cutting a hole in the bottom, this is prevented.
- Use an ice cream scoop It seems as though every pumpkin carving session leads to at least one spoon being bent, warped, and sacrificed to the ghouls and goblins of Halloween. Prevent this by using an ice cream scoop. They’re designed to hold up to the extra pressure and the bigger scoop means your pumpkin will be cleared faster.
- Draw your design with dry erase markers Even if you’re artistically inclined, you’re still going to want to draw out your pumpkin’s design before you get carving. Using a stencil is one option, but those wanting a more free hand approach should try drawing on the pumpkin with a dry erase marker. Unlike permanent markers (where if you mess up, the telltale lines remain), dry erase markers are erasable in case of mistakes, but stay on better and smudge less than washable markers.
- Sprinkle cinnamon inside your pumpkin What’s better than a Jack-O-Lantern? A pumpkin spice Jack-O-Lantern! If you plan to light your pumpkin with a candle make sure to sprinkle the top with pumpkin pie spice and the heat will release a lovely cinnamon smell. Regardless if you plan to use a conventional or flameless candle, you should sprinkle cinnamon on the bottom of the pumpkin as it will act as a deterrent to hungry ants.
