Halloween is fast approaching and whilst the shops are full of costumes and sweets for "trick and treat", it's the good old pumpkin that many people associate with this festival of ghosts and withcraft.

So, for all of you who relish the challenge of creating your own pumpkin lattern or indeed will be expected to do so by the kids, here's a few tips on how to get the best out of your pumpkin carving:

Pumpkin Carving Tips -

There are so many companies selling locally grown vegetables here in Newbury and West Berks so make sure you 'Buy Local'. See our events pages for details of local farmers markets over the next 2 weeks. So, if you are hosting a Halloween party or going to one or simply want to have some fun with the kids, get yourself a pumpkin to decorate.

1) Select a ripe pumpkin and preferably one that doesn't have any dents, marks or bruises as they probably won't last as long (unless you intend to make these a part of your design).  

2) Don't carry the pumpkin by its stem if you want it as part of your design as they snap off quite easily.

3) To save clearing up too much mess its advisable to place your pumpkin on newspaper or something disposable.

4) Using a sharp knife, cut a circle around the stem.  (Children should use a plastic pumpkin carving knife with adult supervision).  

5) Make sure the circle you cut is big enough for you to place your hand inside the pumpkin and pull the seeds and membrane out. It may make it easier to also cut the bottom of the pumpkin out to help remove the insides. This can also help the lattern to stand up staright.

6) Suggest using a soup ladle or large spoon to help remove the insides. 

7) Carving a giant pumpkin is easier than a regular pumpkin so be prepared for your work to be harder the smaller your pumpkin is.

8) Examine your pumpkin to see where the best place is to make your carving.

11) Draw your pumpkin design on a piece of thin / tracing paper in thick pen and then tape the piece of paper to where you want the design to be on the pumpkin.

12) Score your design into the pumpkin through the paper using a large nail or pin.

13) Carefully cut out the design using your knife following the holes that were punched.  When you are finished simply push out the pieces to view the final results.

14) Place a thick and sturdy candle in the base to light on the big night.

Your pumpkin is now ready to decorate your garden, window sill, party venue or fireplace for halloween.

If you feel an intricate design is too much for you and want to stick to something simple, why not create your own version of the 'Burger Pumpkin'.  Its a great idea as it is different, uses the pumpkin seeds and is a modern twist on original designs.

Happy Designing!