From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Bridgewater, NJ

I grew a big max this year and used the flag stencil to carve it. The walls were originally about 4" thick and the pumpkin sort of dried up and now for example, the lid almost falls through the top... is there any way to prevent this annoying drying and shrinking. (also my little brother carved a store bought CT field and carved Garfield's face onto it..it looked good for 12 hours... now my mom turned it around so people dont see it....)

Thanks,
Divyan

10/30/2001 5:09:22 PM

Topsfield, Ma.

divyan,
i heard hair spray applied inside the pumpkin might provide it some staying power...haven't tried it yet...let us know how you make out

10/30/2001 8:15:37 PM

Kennett Square, PA

too moist is gets goey and collapses, too dry and it shrinks. Cool and airy is best. Once they freeze the cell structure breaks and it tends to collapse faster, i.e. keep from freezing. Once rotting/softening begins, cut this out as it will progress quickly and attract flies.

Gary

10/31/2001 3:00:25 PM

Bridgewater, NJ

isn't hairspray flammable.......

10/31/2001 3:34:37 PM

Topsfield, Ma.

you're right divyan, you shouldn't try the hairspray and immediately light any candles nearby...maybe allow it to set a bit. the hairspray really works well in my potato gun !

10/31/2001 5:30:50 PM

Commack, NY

potato gun.........now we're talkin!!

10/31/2001 5:51:44 PM

Tipp City, Ohio

Try tooth picks or anything that could poke into the flesh of the pumpkin and still leave a ledge for the lid to rest on. Try cutting an angle on the lid next year just a thought. Tom

10/31/2001 11:13:21 PM