Not all pumpkins are created equal. Here’s what to look for when picking yours. You probably won’t find one that checks every box, but the more the better:
- Has a stem. No stem means it rots faster right where it broke off.
- Green stem. A green stem means it was picked recently, so it’ll last much longer.
- No bruises, soft spots, or cuts. Check all sides. Those spots go bad first. Small healed scabs are fine.
- Big. More surface area means more room for details. Aim for at least 12” (30cm) tall for portrait stencils.
- Right shape for your design. Tall pumpkin for a portrait, wider for a landscape.
- Sits flat without wobbling. You don’t want your carving falling over.
- Even orange color. Green veins or dark patches can distract from your design.
- No deep ridges. A plump, smooth pumpkin is well hydrated and will carve much more easily.
- Smooth skin. Bumpy skin is harder to carve.
- Avoid varieties with tiny dark dots. If using the Pushpin transfer method, it’s difficult to find your pin holes later.
- Cool to the touch. A warm pumpkin has already started aging. Cold = fresh = longer lasting.
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