This coming weekend is a good one to get carving, no?
Not this year (these photos are from two Halloweens ago).
My favorite part of the whole tradition is heading out to a pumpkin patch in the country and strolling through fields in search of a perfect specimen, and that’s not happening…and spending an hour or so sitting on the floor bent over a pumpkin and a knife is not happening, either.
Besides, I already made my nod to Halloween by picking up a miniature Superman costume (and halfheartedly looking around for those damn cat ears). I may make my way in the direction of a Pumpkin Ale or six in a couple of weeks.
But that’s it for me.
You, though…
You should totally do it!
And if you come up with a really spectacular design, send me a photo: I’d love to see it/post it as inspiration for others.
Some pumpkin-carving tips:
– Put down a big plastic drop-cloth for easy clean-up.
– Don’t forget to reserve the pumpkin seeds for roasting (just clean them well, season them with whatever you like, and roast them in a single layer on a baking sheet at 300F for about 40 minutes).
– I always use a pattern book, and actually go through the tedious process of punching out the outline (per the book’s instructions) first.
– The more detailed designs will rot quicker; thicker, less-complicated designs are what you should lean towards if you want something long-lasting.
– When selecting a pumpkin, look for one with a sturdy stem (but don’t pick it up by the stem!).
– Cut a little “tooth” into the top of the pumpkin (on the least attractive side) so it’s easier to get the top back on in the right position.
– After you poke holes along the pattern’s design lines, rub the front of the pumpkin with flour to make the holes stand out.
– If you decide to use a Sharpie to draw out your pattern and then change your mind, a little nail polish remover should take it right off.
– Rub Vaseline all over the exposed areas of the pumpkin to make it last longer sans fur.
– Whatever you do, do not follow my instructions for making pumpkin soup.
