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If you want to add a historical twist to your Halloween celebrations,
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try carving a turnip instead of a pumpkin.
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Carving a turnip into a lantern to ward off evil spirits has been an established tradition for hundreds of years,
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long before pumpkin carving became popular.
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The tradition is thought to be rooted in an Irish folk tale about a man named Jack who made a deal with the devil to protect his soul.
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When he died, his soul had no resting place so he was cursed to wander the Earth for eternity.
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To light his way, he had only a lantern, made from a hollowed-out turnip, lit by a glowing core.
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For your Halloween turnip you will need,
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a sharp knife,
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a turnip,
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a spoon,
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a craft knife,
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a chopping board,
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a pencil,
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a tea light or candle
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and matches.
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Before cutting into your turnip decide which side you are going to use as its face.
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Are there any blemishes or lumps and bumps that will make the face of your lantern extra creepy?
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Now you need to cut a small amount off the base. This will provide a steady surface while you work.
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Next you need to cut the top off the turnip, this will be used later to form a lid so you want it to be quite wide.
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Make sure you don't cut too low as you need the body to have enough height to carve the face.
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Set the lid to one side.
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Use the knife to score around the inside edge and loosen the inside of the turnip.
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Use a spoon to hollow out the inside of the turnip until a wall only half a centimetre thick remains.
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Turnips are tougher than pumpkins so it may take a bit more work.
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It's time to turn your attention to the face.
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Draw your eyes, nose, and mouth on the front using a pencil.
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Then carefully use a craft knife to carve out the lines of the face.
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Place your small tea light inside the turnip and light it.
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Never leave lit candles unattended.
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You may wish to use an led light instead.
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Now put the lid back on.