Pumpkin carving is an age old tradition that started way back in history with the Celts who celebrated Samhain (pronounced: SOW-win), which means ‘summer’s end’. This night started at sundown on October 31st and went until sundown of November 1st. The Celts believed that the veil between the realm of the living and the dead was thinnest on that night. From this belief came many rituals not only to honor their loved ones who had passed on but to also protect against any malevolent spirits that might decide to roam the night of Samhain!
Back then, jack-o-lanterns were carved from turnips or gourds with burning lumps of coal placed inside. They were set on the porch by the front door and also in windows to act as a welcome for deceased relatives and loved ones while at the same time serving as protection against unwanted spirits. When the Irish settled in America, they brought their customs with them. The jack-o-lantern became what it is today when it was discovered that large orange pumpkins native to America were easier to carve than turnips and burning lumps of coal were replaced with candles!
Nowadays, pumpkin carving has turned into an all out artform. Kits, complete with special tools and unique patterns- some very complex- can be found in stores next to large bins of unsuspecting pumpkins-come-future-jack-o-lanterns. However, for those with less time (and patience), here are some steps for easy peasy traditional pumpkin carving.
First off, this simple task requires simple tools: some newspaper, a thin bladed knife and a large spoon. After spreading your newspaper on a solid workspace such as a kitchen table or even the floor, begin cutting the pumpkin around its stem. (This is where you will scoop out the insides so be sure the hole is big enough to get your hand and/or large spoon into.) A good tip is to angle the knife outward while you cut so that your ‘pumpkin lid’ is rather cone shaped. This will keep it from falling inside the pumpkin once it is carved.
When you have cut your hole and scooped out the insides, having made sure to scrape the walls clean with your large spoon, then you are ready to carve your pumpkin’s scary, silly or happy face! Using a pen or marker, design your jack-o-lantern’s face to your heart’s desire. Carefully cut along the lines with your knife and gently push the cut pieces out. Lastly, insert a votive candle in a glass
votive holder for that spooky illuminating effect! There you have your very own Samhain decoration. Nothing could be more befitting to welcome spirited trick-or-treaters to your door!
Happy
Halloween!
