What do you need for pumpkin carving?

Forget fancy kits! Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you need to make the perfect Jack-O-Lantern.

Essential tools

• Small serrated knife or paring knife: Ideal for detailed patterns. Small knives are safer and easier to use than bigger ones.
• Ice cream scoop or large spoon: Perfect for scooping out the seeds and pulp. The curved edge makes it easy to scrape the sides clean.

Other handy tools

• Apple corer: Great for making small, round holes—perfect for adding details like polka dots.
• Marker: Use it to sketch your design before carving. Let the kids get creative too!
• Potato peeler: Useful for shaving the pumpkin’s skin to create different textures.
• Large bowl: Keep the seeds and pulp in a bowl for later — you can roast the seeds or compost everything!
• Metal biscuit cutters: Press these into the pumpkin for fun shapes like stars or moons.
• Lemon zester: Add fine details and textures without cutting all the way through.
• Templates and stencils: Not confident in your freehand skills? Stencils are a lifesaver.

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Pumpkin carving tips

• Choose the right pumpkin: Fresh pumpkins stay intact longer. Look for vibrant color and a sturdy stem.
• Sketch your design: Draw it on paper first, then tape it to the pumpkin to use as a stencil.
• Cut big pieces first: Start with the larger sections, then clean up your design.
• Keep it fresh: Store your pumpkin in the fridge when not on display, and apply a thin layer of Vaseline along the cut edges to keep them from drying out.
• Choose the right light: Real candles give a traditional glow, but if your pumpkin is outdoors, fake tea lights are more weather-friendly.

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How to carve the perfect pumpkin

1. Cut the top off: Grab a sharp serrated knife and cut the top of your pumpkin off—that’s your crown.

2. Scoop out the insides Use a large spoon to scoop out the seeds and fibres. Save the seeds if you want to roast them later! Put all the pulp into your brown bin if you’re not planning to eat it—we’ll make compost from it.

4. Carve your design Draw your spooky (or silly!) face with a marker. Use a small serrated knife to cut out the eyes, nose, and mouth. Always cut away from yourself for safety.
5. Light it up Pop a tea light inside, light it, and put the crown back on. Your pumpkin is ready to shine!

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Don’t forget: We want your leftover pumpkin!

When you’re done carving, toss the pulp and pieces into your brown compost bin. Not only will you have the spookiest house on the block, but you’ll also be helping us make rich compost. It’s a win-win for Halloween and the environment!

Happy Carving — and Composting!