We're two weeks away from Halloween, that means now is the time to get your pumpkins ready.
There are a few things you can do to make sure your jack o' lantern not only looks good but lasts through the holiday.
First, it all starts with a good pumpkin. Make sure you pick one that is fresh with a sturdy stem and no bruises. Also, make sure the bottom is flat so it doesn't roll around.
When you cut out the lid, make sure to do it at an angle, not straight up and down. That way when you put it back on it won't fall into the pumpkin. A boning knife is recommended for that.
Then its pulp removal. It's the messiest part of carving pumpkins, but its very important! Make sure you get all of it out - and then some! Use an ice cream scooper to scrape the sides. You want the walls to be about an inch and a half thick so it's easier to cut.
When you do start the carving, hold the pumpkin in your lap to allow for premium carving angles.
Once you're pumpkin is done, you want it to last! You can put petroleum jelly on the cut edges to seal in moisture. If it does start to shrivel up, you can bring it back to life with a face down cold water soak for up to eight hours.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon in the lid so when you light it up it will smell like pumpkin pie!
Or if you want to avoid the mess, you can paint and glue decorations onto the outside of the pumpkin for a unique jack o' lantern.
