How to Choose and Carve a Pumpkin

What’s Halloween without Jack O’Lanterns? But pumpkins don’t come with a smiling face. The big Halloween challenge is to turn what is, essentially, a very large and hard vegetable into a carved masterpiece—preferably without cutting off a finger.

Here is a simple, straightforward and most importantly, safe guide to carving Halloween pumpkins. We’ve also included tips on choosing the right pumpkin and some tools that will make things easier. So let’s start with Pumpkins 101, another life tip offered at o5.com.

Picking the Right Pumpkin

Don’t just pick the first pumpkin you see. Consider the design you want, and pick a shape that closely matches it. Also consider the purpose. If you want to use a stencil, pick a medium sized pumpkin. Larger pumpkins are great for table centerpieces or as porch décor. The small pumpkins can be used to hold candles or lined against the sidewalk. (Find ideas on how to showcase pumpkins in our article on cheap halloween party ideas)

Always examine the pumpkin for any bruises, dents or cuts. The skin should be smooth, so it’s easier to carve. Make sure the stem is whole (if you break it, fix with toothpicks).

Pumpkin carving tools

You can use thin bladed boning knives to cut the hole at the top of the pumpkin, plus the holes for the face. Sharp paring knives and X-acto knives are easier for adding details. (Tip: sharpen your knife—it’s easier and safer, because you don’t have to push or pull hard to make decent cuts.)

To transfer designs to a pumpkin from a stencil, use ice picks or a nail and hammer. Or, use a poker tool or artist’s stylus if you have one at home.
If you are drawing the design freehand, prevent mistakes by tracing your basic shapes with a grease pencil.

For removing seeds and pulp, use ice cream scoops or metal ladles.

Lighting the pumpkins

Candles are the traditional way of lighting pumpkins. To prevent fires, use votive candles placed in clear glass candle holders. Tea light candles are also ideal for smaller pumpkins. Don’t use candles in fake pumpkins, and never leave candles unattended. (Read this for more tips on Halloween Safety.)

Photographing pumpkins

After all the work you put into your jack o’lantern you want to record it for posterity! Turn off the flash of your camera, which will flood the photo with too much light and ‘drown’ the light of the candles. The candles should be the main light source. To get an extra bright glow, light two or three candles inside the pumpkin.

You may also want to take your pictures at dusk, so you still have a little natural light. Or, position the pumpkin near another artificial light (like a porch light or lamp) but in an angle so the light is ‘indirect’ – coming from the left or right, rather than right behind it.

Photo from edwud.com