Just in – Halloween Pumpkins
Get into the spooky spirit with some creative carving!
For those who want to get into the spooky spirit of Halloween, we have Halloween or “Jack-o-lantern” pumpkins in store now. These are different from usual pumpkins as they have smooth, orange skin, are a tall barrel shape and have a flat bottom to stop them toppling over. They’re mostly seeds and pulp inside which are easy to scoop out.
1. Gather your supplies
You’ll need a small serrated knife or paring knife, a large spoon and a black permanent marker.
2. Draw your design on your pumpkin
This is traditionally two eyes and a large gaping zigzag mouth. It helps to sketch your design on paper first and then stick in onto your pumpkin to use as a stencil.
3. Cut off the top first
In order to access the inside of the pumpkin to scoop out the seeds and pulp when you carve your pumpkin, you’ll need to cut off the top. Make this cut in the top of the pumpkin in a circle about a quarter of the way down. Cut at a 45-degree angle to prevent the lid from falling inside the pumpkin once the seeds and flesh have been scooped out.
4. Scoop out seeds
Once the top is off you can scoop out the seeds and membrane with the large spoon.
5. Carve your design
Start with the biggest pieces first and then tidy up and do the fiddly bits.
6. Light it up
Candles are traditional but battery-operated LED tea lights work best for an outside display.
7. Keep it fresh
Putting Vaseline on the cut edges of your pumpkin will keep the edges fresh. Read our other tips on keeping your pumpkin fresh here.
Halloween pumpkins are available at most Hill Street stores this week. Check with your local stores for availability.
