Carving a Pumpkin
1. Take a firm, big pumpkin that's free from bruises. Cut a
star-shaped lid from the top, tapering the lid so that it is
wider on the rind edge than on the inside (this helps to keep
the lid from falling in if it shrinks).
2. Scoop out the seeds and fibers from the pumpkin's inside
and lid. Dig a small space in the bottom for a glass cup
(which will hold the candle). Save the seeds to toast later
for snacks.
3. Carve the mouth, taking care to place it above where the
pumpkin curves so that the face won't collapse. Next, cut out
the nose and eyes. Of course, there's no rule that you have to
carve a face. One way to make an easy-to-follow guide for
cutting any shape you'd like is to press a cookie cutter into
the skin, leaving behind an imprint.
4. Place a short, fat candle in the candle cup, light it and
set it inside. Always be sure to extinguish the flame when
you're not watching it. Replace the lid and watch out for
spooks.
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