Edible Vancouver Island September/October 2023

PAINTING Once the pumpkin is clean and dry, you can choose to prime it first. While not an essential step, applying a layer of primer creates a smooth and even surface for the paint to adhere to. Gesso or non-VOC spray paint work best for priming. For painting, acrylic paint and spray paint are great for getting rich colour and adhering well, and chalk or milk paint work well for a matte finish. Tempera and mineral paints are bio degradable options for composting your pumpkin afterward. Having different sizes of paint brushes for large and small details is important. Paint pens and permanent markers are perfect for adding intricate designs, detailed patterns, and personalized messages or monograms on your pumpkins. Use these after any painting is done and dry. If you want extra protection when you’re finished, apply a sealant such as clear acrylic spray or a brush-on sealant. Be sure the paint is completely dry before applying a thin and even layer of sealant, covering the entire surface of the pumpkin. BEYOND THE JACK-O-LANTERN There are so many ways you can decorate your pumpkin. Here are a few fun ideas but look around and think about designs and colours that inspire you! 1 Use masking tape to block off the top half and paint the bottom. It will look like it’s been dip dyed. 2 Paint a pattern all over. Simple vertical stripes down the ridges, polka dots, leaves, stars, little ghosts, etc. 3 Coat the pumpkin in one color and drip different shades or coordinated colors from the top. 4 Create a simple plaid pattern in your favorite colours. Masking tape works well for this design. 5 Sketch out a freehand design and paint it in. 6 Paint your monogram on a pumpkin. 7 Spray your pumpkin white and decoupage your favourite ferns, leaves or branches for a woodland theme. 8 Paint some gourds or pumpkins in solid colors to coordinate with the decorated ones. 9 Don’t forget the stems! Leave them plain for a rustic look or glam them up with some metallic paint on all or just the top bit. Despite being a bit out of practice with crafting, writer and photographer Sabrina Currie is proof that this is an easy and fun project that anyone can do! Find more of her fall recipes, articles and drinks at: sabrinacurrie.com | IG @wckitchengarden | FB @westcoastkitchengarden.

Del Elgersma LAWYER

Don’t leave your estate planning to chance. Planning your will can be a sensitive and emotional topic, even more so if you have a blended

family or own a business. I work with you to navigate the complexities of family dynamics and create a customized estate plan that addresses your unique needs and concerns. Let me help you protect your assets and provide for your loved ones. Call Beacon Law Centre today to schedule a free consultation. As the husband of Edible Vancouver Island publisher Karen Elgersma, Del enjoys food, travel, and writing and is a frequent contributor to the magazine, sharing his experiences on road trips and culinary adventures. He has recently discovered a passion for cooking, through classes with the London Chef . Beacon Law Centre | 250-656-3280 | www.beaconlaw.ca

30 SEP/OCT 2023 EDIBLE VANCOUVER ISLAND