VIDEO: How to carve a pumpkin or turn yourself into a zombie
HALLOWEEN is just around the corner, so it's time to get crafty by creating a spooky jack-o-lantern or transforming yourself into a terrifying zombie.
We can help you with both those things.
As Halloween becomes a growing trend in Australia, it seems more acceptable to pull out the vampire outfit and carve a jack-o-lantern.
Although Halloween is not a nationwide public holiday as in other countries, many retailers are selling costumes and other Halloween-themed items to help those who wish to celebrate.
How to make a jack-o-lantern
- First purchase a pumpkin - the carving pumpkins that only come out in stores at this time of year work the best.
- Select two knives - one long fillet knife and the other a paring knife for easy movement through the skin.
- Designs can be sketched on the surface with a pencil or marker pen - the internet has many simple designs for the first timers.
- Children will need adults' supervision as the knives will be sharp.
- Start by cutting a circle around the stem with the fillet knife - pull this out and remove the inside seeds from the pumpkin.
- Next, use the small paring knife to cut the face of the design. The pieces will pop out easily if using a traditional carving pumpkin.
- Finish off by cleaning any excess off and making sure the inside is clean.
- Now use two to three tealight candles to make your lantern come to life.
- For safety, never leave candles unattended.
Carving the pumpkin a little before Halloween is good, because as the pumpkin starts to shrivel it gives more character and effect to the lantern.
How to become a zombie
Zombie makeovers are popular choices for Halloween events, fancy dress parties and zombies walks.
Make-up artist Leisa Ross explains how to make yourself look truly creepy here:
