How to Make a Gourd Dipper
The natural shape of a dried, woody gourd lends itself to a number of handicraft designs, both decorative and functional. One classic gourd craft is the dipper, a kind of spoon or ladle made to take the gourd's round, hollow bottom and thin, handle-like stem. Create your own gourd dipper for use in your kitchen or as a rustic decoration. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Select a gourd that will make a good dipper when purchasing; this should have a round base and a long, thin stem, preferably without much curve or twist to the latter.
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Place the gourd in a dry, well-ventilated area on a wire rack or similarly-shaped surface. Let it dry for four to six months; don't worry if it molds slightly, this won't matter once only the woody portions remain. Skip this step if you've purchased and alreayd dried gourd
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Fit the oscillating power tool with a cutting wheel bit graded for wood (this is indicated by the manufacturer's packaging or instructions).
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Draw a dividing line on the gourd that disects the vegetable lengthwise. Depending on the shape of the gourd, it may make for a better dipper if you divide it into a bottom piece that's about two-thirds of the gourd and a top piece of about one-third. Extend the line alone both the rounded bottom and the stem.
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Cut the gourd at the line you sketched using the oscillating power tool. Start with the tool set to a medium or middle speed setting on its dial and adjust up or down depending on the cut speed you find you get and your own preferences; different gourds will have different levels of thickness.
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Remove the dried seeds and sinews on the inside of the gourd using the spoon and discard.
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Brush the inside of the gourd with the wire brush to get sinews and materials that are still stuck in place. Get it as clean as you can this way.
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Rub the gourd vigorously with sandpaper, inside and out. Pay special attention to the edges of the basin (the bottom of the gourd).
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Test the gourd with some water. If the gourd turns out to have any leaks from naturally-occurring holes, dry the gourd thoroughly and apply a small quantity of silicone adhesive to cover the holes. Let the adhesive cure for 24 hours before use.
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