Create your own unique and scary Jack-o-lantern pattern using a Trotec laser.
Preparation
Material required:
pumpkin
pumpkin carving kit (or a sharp knife and large spoon or scoop)
duct tape
tooth brush
a candle or LED lights
Trotec Laser Used:
Speedy 400
80 watts
2 inch lens
Step by Step
Step 1: Find the perfect pumpkin
Visit the local grocery store or farm market to find the right pumpkin for your jack-o-lantern. Try to find one that is the right size for your design. In general, the easiest ones to work with are those with a smooth surface and a uniform coloring.
Step 2: Put your pumpkin in the laser
Place your pumpkin in the laser. If necessary, use duct tape to position it properly. If you are using your own design, send the file to the laser. Otherwise, open our template, modify it if needed, and send it to the laser.
Parameters used:
Engraving: Power: 100% - Speed: 25% - Frequency: AUTO - Air Assist: ON - Passes: 2 For a perfect engraving result, we've activated the "High Quality" option.
Step 3: Wash it
Clean the pumpkin with lukewarm water and a toothbrush after you are finished laser processing.
Step 4: Prepare tools
Next, gather your carving supplies: a sharp knife, a spoon, and two bowls (one for the seeds and the other one for pumpkin pulp).
Step 5: Hollow out the pumpkin
Cut a circular section out of the top of the pumpkin around the stem to create a lid. Cut the lid at an angle to prevent the lid from falling in once it's cut. Remove the freshly cut lid and take out all the seeds and strings using either a spoon or your hands.
Next, clean out the inside of the pumpkin using a spoon or scoop. Scrape out the stringy pulp, and place it into the second bowl.
Step 6: Let it shine
Use a sponge or rag to wipe off the inside and outside of the pumpkin. Finally, put a candle or LED-light inside the pumpkin, replace the lid, and let your jack-o-lantern shine!
Happy Halloween!
Tips and Tricks:
Sprinkle some cinnamon on the underside of the lid. Some people claim this makes the pumpkin last longer.
Hollowing out the pumpkin can be quite exhausting. An ice cream scoop can make your job easier.
Don't thow the pumpkin pulp away - keep it and cook a delicious soup.
