How to Make a Gourd Basket

Gourd baskets are made from the dried, hollow shell of gourd fruit. Make gourd baskets in different shapes and sizes depending on the size of the gourd you pick. Another option is to paint or burn designs into gourd baskets with a wood-burning tool to make it more decorative. Gourd baskets are very functional and last for many years.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 gourd
• Mini jigsaw or keyhole saw
• Sandpaper
• Paint or decorations
• Sealant (optional)

1. Pick a gourd for your basket. The gourd may be as large or small as you wish, but it needs to have a rounded base. The more unique the shape of the gourd you choose, the more unique your basket will be.

2. Mark the top and the sides of the gourd for the handle of the basket. Remember that the handle needs to be relative to the size of the basket you make. Choose simple half-moon drawings on the side of the gourd to create the handle, or experiment with different shapes and designs.

3. Cut out the sides of the gourd to create the handle using a jigsaw or a keyhole saw. When this is completed, you have the basic shape of your gourd basket.

4. Remove the pulp and seeds from the inside of the gourd.

5. Sand the cut edges until they are smooth.

6. Paint and decorate your gourd basket as desired.

Tips & Warnings

• If the basket is to stay outside, cover it with a sealant so it lasts longer.

Resources

• Find creative uses for gourds at the American Gourd Society.