How To Carve Pumpkins

October is a very busy month for everyone, but carving a Pumpkin with your family should be on the top of your to do list.  Invite some friends over, scatter pumpkins in your backyard and host a pumpkin carving party.  Here are some tips to make it a stress free fun night.

1)  Hollow out your pumpkin. Use a carving knife to cut a circle into the bottom of your pumpkin.  Pull out the bottom and most of the pulp will come with it. Hollowing out the pumpkin from the bottom makes it easier to light and also prevents the top from rotting out. It also keeps the stem looking perfect.
2)  Next, scoop out the pulp and seeds from the pumpkin. You can use a big spoon or a pumpkin tool. Take this opportunity to have the children smell and touch the insides of the pumpkin. The seeds can be dried and planted or roasted to be eaten.
3)  Create your design. You can draw a pumpkin design on paper and trace it with black marker. Then tape the design to the pumpkin.  Using a needle tool poke holes along the design. If you are creating a simple design you can draw directly onto the pumpkin with a black marker. For a more intricate and elaborate design buy a pumpkin transfer kit or look online for templates.
4)  Carving out your pumpkin. Using a pumpkin carving knife cut along the design, you may have to repeat this step depending on the thickness of the pumpkin you are carving. Push out the carved sections of the pumpkin and remove any excess pumpkin flesh with scoop.
5)  Illuminate your pumpkin. Use a candle, battery powered lights or holiday lights to illuminate your pumpkin. Just place your pumpkin on top of a candle or lights. I like to use a LED lights because they are very bright and easy. Use a timer on the lights so you never have to turn them on or off and you save on electricity.

This process can be very messy, put down a plastic tablecloth and have a bowl ready for the flesh of the pumpkin. If the weather cooperates, carve it outside. Also, if you have many guests, you may want to hollow out the pumpkins beforehand.  This is the messiest part and could be frustrating for young children.

Serve Pumpkin bread or pie for dessert you will be surprised at how many children will like it. So start a tradition of pumpkin carving because it is fun for all ages.

Have a Happy and Safe Halloween from our family to yours.