Halloween is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to organize decorations that the whole family will enjoy, especially children. In this article, we will guide you step by step in making a Halloween lantern using a pumpkin, a classic that adds atmosphere and color to autumn. We have already seen how to make pumpkin-shaped decorations with recycled materials, and now we will focus on how to transform a real pumpkin into a decorative element for the party.
How to choose pumpkin
When choosing pumpkin, keep in mind that common garden pumpkins, rich in pulp, are perfect if you want to reuse the pulp in cooking. The traditional orange carving pumpkin, with less pulp and many seeds, is easier to work with, despite being inedible. Remember that every discarded part can be useful: seeds and pulp can be dried or composted, reducing waste to a minimum.
How to turn pumpkin into a lantern
Engrave the base
Place the pumpkin on a cutting board and cut the base with a thin, sharp knife.
Cut the heart of the pumpkin
Cut the heart of the pumpkin with a small knife to make it easier to extract the pulp and seeds.
Empty the pumpkin
At this point – even the little ones can have fun – with the help of a spoon, empty the pumpkin, digging to the bottom (be careful not to break it as the peel is quite soft, if you use the typical orange Halloween pumpkin).
Carve eyes and mouth
Using a small knife or toothpick, draw the eyes, nose and mouth of the pumpkin. Free your imagination. Then cut with a sharp knife.
The lantern is ready
Your lantern is ready! Insert a candle or LED light for a magical effect, ideal for welcoming guests as they enter your home.
How to keep it longer
To keep your Halloween lantern carved for longer, it is important to follow some precautions to slow down the decomposition process:
- Thorough cleaning: Make sure to remove all the pulp and seeds inside the pumpkin. The cleaner the inside, the longer it will last.
- Bath in water and bleach: immerse the pumpkin in a solution of water and a spoonful of bleach for about 20 minutes. This helps kill any bacteria and fungi that can speed up decay. Be sure to dry it well before displaying it.
- Cool environment: place the pumpkin in a cool place away from direct sunlight during the day. At night, if possible, place it in the refrigerator to further slow down the degradation process.
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