Nothing is more frustrating than spending hours carving a pumpkin, only to feel defeated when you accidentally cut off one of the teeth or somehow connect its eyeball to its mouth. Save the disappointment this year with these great tips for carving an awesome pumpkin that is sure to get you in the Halloween spirit!

Before

Tip #1
When choosing a pumpkin, make sure to pick one that has a stem that is not dried out. The more dry the stem is, the less amount of time it will last

Tip #2
Avoid pumpkins with soft spots; those mean that the pumpkin has already started rotting on the inside

Tip #3
Wash and dry our pumpkin as soon as you get it home to remove excess dirt and bacteria

During

Tip #4
Carve the pumpkin as close as possible to the time you are planning to display it as it will start to deteriorate as soon as 24 hours after you carve it

Tip #5
If the pumpkin is wobbly, you do not have to keep the bottom in-tact, simply cut off the bottom so that it is balanced and place a light or candle directly on the ground inside of the pumpkin

Tip #6
Use a template. Free carving will usually end in defeat

Tip #7
Use sturdy tools from the kitchen or a hardware store. The plastic ones that come in carving kits are very flimsy and will not last long

Tip #8
Save carving the big areas for last. If you cut the bigger areas first, the pumpkin will be flimsy and weak making it difficult to carve the smaller sections without them breaking off completely

After

Tip #9
Store your pumpkin below 60 degrees to ensure the longest lifetime possible

Tip #10
Rub lemon juice, water and petroleum jelly on cut areas to prevent browning

Tip #11
Cover with plastic wrap until you are ready to put it out for display

Enjoy your awesome pumpkin!

What other tips do you have for a successful pumpkin carving?

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