Frightful fun — Halloween legends, trivia and more

The Internet is a wealth of information for the pumpkin-carving impaired. Not only are there tips available but free patterns and fun facts.

For example, how many of you knew that the first jack-o'-lanterns were carved out of turnips? Below are a few of basic tips, but for the patterns, you will need go to the Internet and check out the sites listed on this page, or type "pumpkin carving" in one of the search engines for more choices.

TIPS

1. Have a pattern in mind before you choose your pumpkin. Find a shape that works best with the design you have chosen.

2. Cut the lid. Have your parents help you. Bevel your knife or saw toward the center of the pumpkin to create a ledge that will support the lid. Don't forget to cut one or two holes in the lid to vent the heat from the candle, and to prevent your pumpkin lid from caving in. Or, cut off the bottom of the pumpkin. Cleaning it out will be easier and the pumpkin will sit flat on the ground.

3. Clean and scrape out the interior of the pumpkin. Scrape where your design will be to about 1-inch thickness.

4. Attach pattern using pins or tape.

5. Transfer your design using a push pin or poker tool. Make pinpoints one-sixteenth inch to one-eighth inch apart. Check to see if you have transferred the entire design before removing the paper pattern.

6. Cut out your design following the punched holes. Start with the smallest details in the center and work your way to the outer edges. Leave all the cutout parts in place until all your carving is done to add stability to the pumpkin.

7. Drill a hole for the candle in the bottom of the pumpkin, but don't drill all the way through. This will hold the candle in place and allow you to tip the pumpkin on its side, making it much easier to light the candle.

8. Place a votive candle or glow stick inside, and you are ready to light it up.

SOURCES:

History, tips: www.pumpkin-carving.com

Patterns: www.carvingpumpkins.com

History, tips, patterns: www.angelfire.com/or2/lori/halloween.html

Tips, patterns: www.fabulousfoods.com/holidays/halloween/pumpplans.html

familyfun.go.com/halloween/pumpkin-carving-decorating/

e-mail: heather@desnews.com