One of my favourite Halloween tales is about how the tradition of carving pumpkins started, and believe it or not, the first vegetables to be carved to make lanterns were actually turnips!

The story goes something like this: a man named Jack made a bargain with the devil, tricking him to turn into a coin to pay for drinks. Jack, though, used a cross he was carrying to trap the devil, vowing to release him on the condition that he would not be able to take his soul. When Jack died, he was refused entry to heaven as he had lead a pretty horrible life, and the devil, keeping his promise to not take his soul, also refused him entry to hell, forcing Jack to endlessly wander for a resting place, using a carved turnip and burning embers to light his way.

Materials

• DK or 8ply yarn in purple, white and green
• 3.75 (F) crochet hook or appropriate hook for the weight of yarn chosen
• Tapestry needle and scissors
• Polyfill
• Black felt for the eyes and mouth

To share your creations, tag @emmacraftsdesign on Instagram and #terrythehalloweenturnip