| A carved jack-o-lantern may very well be the | | | | By tracing a pattern onto the pumpkin, young |
| most recognized symbol for the Halloween holiday. | | | | children can "paint by numbers" to create their |
| But using a sharp knife to carve them is not | | | | own Halloween masterpiece. |
| exactly an activity that everyone, especially the | | | | With a bit of creative planning, scrap fabric, craft |
| children who are the biggest fans of Halloween, | | | | supplies, hats and jewelry can transform the |
| can do. | | | | painted pumpkin into a character worthy of |
| And how many parents have stayed up late, the | | | | name-giving. |
| night before Halloween, carving their | | | | The best feature of painted pumpkins is their |
| jack-o-lanterns, only to see that same pumpkin | | | | lifespan. A pumpkin, once carved, will last three to |
| collapse just days after the big holiday? | | | | five days at the most before it begins to collapse |
| During a field trip to a pumpkin farm, I discovered | | | | and rot. A painted pumpkin, when sealed properly, |
| a Halloween craft activity that even the youngest | | | | will last four weeks or longer! |
| members of the family can participate in. Pumpkin | | | | Because of the extended lifespan, painted |
| painting is a fun and safe way to celebrate | | | | pumpkins make the perfect porch decoration, |
| autumn and Halloween. | | | | dining table centerpiece or gifts for teachers, |
| This quick and easy craft is perfect for family | | | | friends and family. |
| activities, preschool or elementary school parties, | | | | And a great way to make your pumpkin work |
| Girl Scout gatherings or Halloween parties. | | | | double-duty is to paint one side for Halloween. |
| With just a few supplies: pumpkins of any size, | | | | When Halloween is over, turn the pumpkin around, |
| craft paint, brushes, sealer and your imagination, | | | | paint some autumn leaves and leave it on your |
| anyone can transform a plain pumpkin into a | | | | porch for a beautiful Thanksgiving decoration! |
| whimsical, life-like character. | | | | |