• calendar_month October 21, 2024

Dos 

• Do pick a pumpkin that’s lighter in color. They are easier to carve.
• Do soak your cleaned pumpkin for a couple of hours in a bleach/water solution. Use 1 tsp bleach to 1 gallon of water to lengthen the life of your pumpkin.
• Do wash your pumpkin in warm, soapy water. This reduces the spread of mold into the pumpkin; dry thoroughly afterward.
• Do cut the bottom off the pumpkin instead of the top. This keeps moisture inside longer.
• Do take the seeds out one scoop at a time using a spoon or ice cream scoop. Scrape in a spiral motion until all strings and seeds are free from the walls.
• Do draw or print a template design. Tape it to the pumpkin if needed and cut small slits into the paper for it to lay flat.
• Do trace the template onto the pumpkin using a water-based marker. This can be easily erased with a damp sponge.
• Do use a pumpkin carving knife or long serrated knife to carve your pumpkin. Use a sawing motion and carve on or near the outside of your marker lines.
• Do do details first when carving. This avoids breaking big pieces later.
• Do rub veggie oil on all carved edges to preserve the pumpkin.
• Do rinse off seeds, season them, and make toasted pumpkin seeds.
• Do try an LED instead of a candle for lighting. It’s safer and lasts longer.
• Do sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves inside for fragrance.
• Do put jack-o-lanterns in plastic bags and refrigerate when not in use.
• Do soak shriveled pumpkins in water for several hours to revive them.

Don’ts:

• Don’t pick a pumpkin with bruises or moldy stems.
• Don’t carve big pieces first; do details first instead.
• Don’t ever eat a carved pumpkin.

Wishing everyone a spectacular Halloween!!