Start a new Halloween tradition – let each family member design their own pumpkin’s face!

• Select your pumpkin – Look for a nice rounded shape with a flat bottom

• Prepare the work area – Cover the floor, table or countertop with layers of newspaper

• Select proper tools - 

• A “pumpkin carving saw” makes carving easier and safer although you can use a sharp knife ~NOTE~EITHER ONE REQUIRES ADULT SUPERVISION!

Pumpkin Saw - No Sharp Edges!

• Large spoon or scoop to remove pulp and seeds from inside of pumpkin

• Ink pen or marker to draw the face

• Bowl, if you want to save the seeds for roasting

• Candle or Flashlight for an eerie glow

• Using the pen mark a circle at least 2” from the stem on all sides, this needs to be large enough to get your hand into – make it larger if you have a large pumpkin

• Using the pumpkin saw cut around the line you drew, cut at an angle so the “lid” will have a ledge to sit on

Pumpkin Guts!

• Using the spoon scrape out all the pulp and seeds, separate the seeds from the pulp and save them for roasting* (recipe follows - yummy!) If you plan to light your pumpkin with a candle make a flat spot in the bottom center where the candle will sit

• Take the pen again and draw your jack-o-lantern’s face – sweet, scary, friendly, goofy – the choice is yours!

Many hands make fast work! (only if using pumpkin saw!)

• Use the pumpkin saw to cut along the lines you have drawn – it is easier if you start from the corners and work towards the center ~REQUIRES ADULT SUPERVISION~

• To help your jack-o-lantern stay fresh a little longer, coat all cut edges with a thin layer of vegetable oil or petroleum jelly. (after cutting your pumpkin it will last about 4-7 days).

• Take your jack-o-lantern outside, insert candle, use a BBQ lighter or fireplace match to light the candle ~REQUIRES ADULT SUPERVISION~, put the lid on and ENJOY  **Never Leave Candles Unattended!

• Clean up your mess - Just roll up the mess inside the newspaper and discard

Easy & Fun!

Now for the Crunchy Treat

*Roasted Pumpkin Seeds*
Rinse and drain the seeds, removing as much water as possible.
In a mixing bowl combine seeds with 1 T cooking oil and 1 t garlic salt. Spread mixture on a baking pan.
Toast seeds in a 325 degree oven for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally – peek to make sure they are not getting too brown.
Cool and eat!
Stored in an airtight container.

Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!