Pumpkin lanterns or Jack-O-Lanterns are traditional decorations for Halloween. Hollowing out a pumpkin and carving the traditional lantern is actually quite simple.
How to make your own pumpkin lantern:
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Choose a fresh pumpkin in the desired shape. Some like low and round pumpkins as lanterns, while others prefer tall and oval pumpkins.
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Use a pencil to mark a circle or hexagon around the stem of the pumpkin, which you will later cut out to hollow out the pumpkin. The opening must be large enough for your hand to fit through.
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Use a sharp knife to cut through the thick skin along your mark.
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Remove the stem that you have just cut out to create an opening for hollowing out.
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Use a large spoon to scrape out the flesh and pumpkin seeds.
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Use a pencil to mark the pattern for the face on the front of the pumpkin. Make sure that the eyes, mouth and nose are large enough, as the pumpkin skin is difficult to cut. The larger the openings, the easier they are to cut out.
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Cut out the eyes, nose and mouth along your markings using a large, sharp knife.
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You can now press the cut-out pieces out from the inside and throw them away.
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Place a votive candle in the centre of the pumpkin for a spooky lighting effect.
