Designing + Constructing Unique…Jack-O-Lanterns?

by SweisKloss
Oct 24, 2019

We strive to make every design meet our high standards. The planning stage is key, relying on drawings and years of experience to perfect the details. We know the gut job will be messy, but it comes with the territory. And of course, constructing comes with challenges so must be done with the proper tools and resources.

If you haven’t already guessed, we are talking about carving pumpkins!

That wonderfully frightful time of year where one tries to outdo neighbors for the most creative jack-o-lantern on the block. Where paths are lit by bulbous creatures, showing off their inner glow and giving them their one shining moment. Our home’s front steps are filled with such creations of all shapes and sizes because this is my daughter’s favorite Halloween ritual.

My designer side gets into full competitive mode as my daughter and I scour the internet for inspirations and are awed by jack-o-lanterns from the sweet and whimsical to the downright scary. I wonder how many hours were needed to construct some of these earthy masterpieces. How many hours will it take me? Allow us to share the unique jack-o-lanterns that inspired us the most.

Want to inspire others to join in the design and construction fun? Consider having a pumpkin-carving contest at your Halloween party. Carving isn’t the only option, especially if your guests are young. Painting and attaching party favors—channel Mr. or Mrs. Potatohead—will make the pumpkins last longer. Take lots of pictures because it won’t be long before your hard work melts into a sunken mess in this SoCal heat.

Once your pumpkins are on display for Halloween night, make trick-or-treaters work for their free candy by asking them to vote for their favorite jack-o-lantern design. After they’ve made their decision, reward them with extra chocolate bars…they are mini sized after all so one or two more will garner a grin and a guaranteed return to your house next year!

All photos courtesy of Pinterest