Ten Smart Tips for Picking the Best Pumpkin for Carving

1. Go for the Right Size and Shape

Medium to large pumpkins are best for carving because they give you plenty of space for creative designs. Look for a round or oval shape with smooth, even sides, which makes drawing and cutting easier. Avoid pumpkins that are too small, as they can be fiddly to carve.

2. Look for an Even, Bright Colour

Choose a pumpkin with a rich, consistent orange colour. This shows that it’s fully ripe and easier to carve. Avoid ones with faded patches or dull, grey tones, as they might be old or bruised.

3. Feel for Firmness

Press gently on the skin with your fingers. A firm, solid pumpkin will carve cleanly and last longer once it’s hollowed out. Soft or squishy spots suggest decay beneath the surface, which will shorten its lifespan.

4. Inspect the Skin for Blemishes

Check the surface carefully for deep scratches, cracks, or bruises. Even a small cut can cause the pumpkin to rot quickly once you begin carving. A smooth, unblemished surface makes for the perfect carving canvas.

5. Check the Stem

A strong, dry, greenish-brown stem means the pumpkin was harvested at the right time. Avoid pumpkins with soft, broken, or missing stems. Always lift your pumpkin from underneath rather than by the stem to prevent it snapping off.

6. Choose a Flat, Steady Bottom

Set the pumpkin down on a flat surface and check that it sits upright without wobbling. A stable pumpkin is much easier and safer to carve. If it rolls or tips, it could make carving tricky and uneven.

7. Test the Weight

Pick up a few pumpkins of similar size and feel the difference. A lighter pumpkin is usually easier to hollow and carve. However, make sure it’s not too light, as that could mean thin walls that collapse easily.

8. Listen for a Hollow Sound

Tap the side of the pumpkin gently. A hollow sound means it’s mature with thinner walls, making it ideal for carving. Thick-walled pumpkins may be heavy and tougher to cut through.

9. Avoid Pumpkins with Soft Spots

Always inspect the bottom where moisture collects. Soft, damp, or mouldy areas are signs of rot and will spread quickly once carved. Choose pumpkins that feel firm all over for a longer-lasting jack-o’-lantern.

10. Store It Properly Before Carving

Keep your chosen pumpkin in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight until you’re ready to carve. For longer preservation tips, the Royal Horticultural Society has excellent advice. If you want to delay carving, refrigeration or applying a little petroleum jelly to cut areas can help it last longer, as suggested by BBC Good Food.