Category: Gardening

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Gourds

I planted some gourds last year and have been tripping up on our harvest.  I had used gourds as maracas when my children were small, but I can’t honestly say that I have “crafted” with Gourds.  I’ve seen a wonderful display of possibilities  (a “quick” search on Pinterest will blow your mind), so I was ready to tackle the chore.

Keep it wet to avoid nasty dust

Most posts cautioned about mold dust and such, so I was good to keep the gourd wet while working on it, to keep the dust down. It cleaned up rather easily with just a bit of effort and a scouring pad. I like the marbled effect I was achieving so I wasn’t too determined to get it completely clean ( read: minimum effort =maximum results).

Simple tools

I used a regular ol’ hand saw to cut the neck off.  I shook the seeds out then used a hand drill to make holes along the design that I wanted ( no photos, sorry). I used a simple jigsaw blade in my hand and started connecting the holes that I had drilled.  This part was surprisingly easy. I used a little scrap of sandpaper (for this I suggest a mask for protection) and worked it carefully along the cut ends and design.

Finishing Touch

I used my husband’s shoe polish and an old rag to distribute the wax.  I wasn’t thrilled with the results but my handy son suggested I use a lighter to warm the wax for easier application.  I took his suggestion as an offer and, with my new volunteer, proceeded to cover the remaining gourd with ease.

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Check out these other gourd projects!

This was my first attempt and certainly far from perfect, but I am happy enough with the results that I am eager to attempt some of the more complicated designs on Pinterest.