How to Dry Gourds for Decorating

Dry and Decorate Gourds

Drying and decorating gourds is a fun craft and a handy way to use up the leftover gourds from your garden. Gourds are simple to grow, fun to decorate and they make great center pieces and accents for fall decorating.

Things You'll Need

• Gourds
• Cloth for cleaning
• A dry ventilated area

Instructions

1. Be sure your gourds are fully mature before picking. If gourds are picked too early they have a tendency to rot more easily.

2. Gently clean your gourds with a damp cloth to remove debris and dry them completely.

3. Store your gourds in a dry place that has plenty of air. Gourds need a lot of air and ventilation to dry correctly. If you live in a warmer climate, an enclosed porch works well.

4. Make sure that you don't crowd your gourds, keep them spaced well apart.

5. Turn your gourds occasionally to help speed the drying. The drying can take anywhere from a month to 8 months depending on the size and type of gourd you use.

6. Don't be alarmed if you see mold on the outside of your gourds. This is common and can be cleaned off easily after the drying is done. If it bothers you to have the mold on them, you can gently wipe it off with a damp cloth and dry the gourd thoroughly before setting it out to dry again.

7. Do not cover your gourds; leave them exposed to as much air as possible.

8. Check your gourds regularly for rotting. If mold only seems to grow in one area or you see a darker spot on your gourd, gently push on it to see if there is a soft spot. If you find soft areas, there isn't much to be done with the gourd but throw it out.

9. Decorate your gourds when they are light and hollow. You should be able to hear seeds rattling around when you shake the gourd.

Tips & Warnings

• Acrylic paint works well for decorating gourds.

• Don't worry about finding some gourds that have rotted during the drying process, this happens to everyone.

• You may be tempted to put holes in your gourds for faster drying. Avoid doing this as it can promote rot.