Happy Haunting

Get crafty with these Halloween DIYs and scary-good party treats.

- MONIQUE VALERIS and SAMANTHA MACAVOY

Carved Pumpkin How-To

Use these instructions for flames, candle, crow and scalloped pumpkins.

1. Choose a fresh pumpkin or gourd with a sturdy stem and no bruises. Wipe away any loose dirt or debris. Fill a small spray bottle with distilled white vinegar and use to clean the pumpkin before carving.

2. Using a good pumpkin carving knife, a keyhole saw or a sturdy serrated kitchen knife, cut a round opening from the bottom of the pumpkin. (Cutting your "lid" from the bottom of the pumpkin helps prevent the sides from caving in later and makes it easier to add lights afterward.)

3. Scoop out the inside pulp and seeds with a metal measuring cup, an ice cream scoop or a spoon.

4. Download one of our templates and trace it onto the pumpkin (we love using washable chalk markers).

5. On a sturdy surface, cut pumpkin flesh along the template lines. A craft knife set works well for areas with small details.

6. Spray vinegar on the carved areas so they will last longer. Place the carved pumpkin over an LED votive or string lights.

DINE...IF YOU DARE

Toy snakes can give cloth napkins serpentine style. Serve with a glass of something "chilling" (may we suggest a dark red liquid?).

Materials: toy snakes, Glue Dots

1. Twist toy snakes around a napkin or wrap them around taper candle holders for an instant spooky touch.

2. Secure with Glue Dots if necessary.

TOMBSTONE PUMPKINS