I’m not a great pumpkin carver. I think it stems from the fact that I’m not really a great artist. I know you don’t have to be DaVinci to carve good pumpkin, but I don’t think it would hurt things. The whole process is a little gross, what with scraping pumpkin guts out of the middle of a pumpkin just so you can slash it up a bit. I do enjoy the pumpkin seeds though, which only adds to the grossness because I have to paw through the guts a second time to pick out the seeds. Regardless of my talents (or lack thereof) and my weak stomach, I do enjoy the Jack-O-Lantern aspect of Halloween.
If you’re also into the pumpkin carving scene, then I suggest you check out the Jack-O-Wax Votive Kit (Wrapables, $16.99). It’s a nice alternative/addition to the generic Jack-O-Lantern idea, and a hell of a lot more sanitary. The base of the set is a wax votive cup that you can carve just like you would a regular pumpkin using the included carving tool. You then put a votive candle inside, and presto! You’ve got a Jack-O-Lantern without the mess associated with pumpkin carving. This thing isn’t going to last forever, but it sure isn’t going to slowly rot on your counter.
The best way to eat pumpkin seeds is to coat them in all seasoned salt and throw them in the oven at 400 degrees for about 10 minutes. Then give them a good stir and bake them for another 10 minutes or so. Makes it almost worth the whole pumpkin carving process, doesn’t it?
4 out of 5 stars.
Specs:
-Dimensions: 4.25″ diameter
-Includes a carving tool, votive cup with votive, and a felt bottom
-Votive made of soft wax for easy carving
