How to Make a Jack O'Lantern from an Orange

Author Info

Last Updated: April 28, 2023

Orange (or pink grapefruit) Jack o' Lanterns are cute rather than scary and although they're a little fiddly to make, they're not as demanding as the pumpkin variety. If you want a cute little Jack o' Lantern display or you're just in a hurry, these little critters might be just the look you're after for Halloween.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Preparing the Oranges

Remove any grime or stains. Dry by wiping with a dishcloth or paper towel.
Use a sharp knife to slice, while keeping the orange still on a flat surface.
3
Scoop the flesh out of each orange. Use the spoon to slip around the edges of the orange flesh and scoop it out in pieces.
- The flesh can be used to make orange juice or to bake with.
Advertisement

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Cutting the Face

1
Draw a basic face design on the outside of one orange. Two triangle eyes, a little triangle nose, and a smile are all you'll need to do.
- The smaller the citrus fruit, the simpler the design needs to be.
3
Repeat for the other oranges. After cutting the first one, you might feel comfortable enough to cut shapes without marking; do whatever works best for you.

Advertisement

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Displaying the Orange Jack O' Lanterns

You can place single orange Jack o'Lanterns wherever you'd like one on display. Or, place them in a cute little row, next to one another. A long silver sweets tray is ideal for this type of display.
Set the little orange Jack O'Lanterns aglow.

Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

Where do you get a votive candle?

Pillowpig

Community Answer

You can buy them at your local craft store (eg. Joann's, MIchaels, etc.), or buy them online.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
Question

How long does it take?

Community Answer

It depends on what you are carving and whether you are good at it or not. It could take anywhere from 10 minutes to 2-3 hours.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 1

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Tips

The citrus peel will dry out with the heat from the candles if left burning for a long time, or for several uses. This is normal.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
If you want them to last long, freeze them for a few hours.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Dispose of used orange Jack O'Lanterns in the compost.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Show More Tips

Warnings

Never leave lit candles unattended. It could cause a fire.

Thanks
Helpful 36 Not Helpful 8
Be careful when cutting oranges, you could get cut!

Thanks
Helpful 30 Not Helpful 13

Things You'll Need

2-3 oranges (mandarins, grapefruit, tangelos, etc. can also be used); obviously, you can make more if wished
Sharp knife for carving
A big metal spoon for scooping
Small sharp scissors, such as nail scissors
Votive candles or tea light candles
Display props, such as a sweet tray (optional)