How to Make Gourd Head Crafts

Gourd head crafts can be made from gourds of any size. It is fun to turn a simple gourd into a crafty piece of art, so find a fun and funky gourd shape that you like and create something beautiful. Gourd head crafts make excellent gifts, which can save you money during the holidays or you can sell your crafts. Either way, you'll get the satisfaction of knowing that your creation is enjoyed and appreciated.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gourd
• Paints
• Etching tool (optional)

1. Find a gourd that is round. Try to find a gourd that has a flat spot on it so that you can set it down without worrying about it rolling around. Make sure that your gourd is dry--you should be able to hear the seeds rolling around inside when you shake it.

2. Clean your gourd. Use a sponge with a scrubber side and gently scrub the dirt and yucky stuff off the surface of your gourd. You want a smooth surface to work on. Plus, if you leave any dirt or residue on the gourd, it will glom up your brushes and smear dark color. If there are any tiny pits, you can fill them in with Spackle and sand it smooth, as long as you paint over it afterward.

3. 
   A snowman head made from a small gourd

   Pick your materials. If you want to paint your gourd, experiment with metallic paint and vivid colors. Or you may want to just get funky stuff (pom poms, sticks, raffia, etc.) and glue it on for effect.

4. 

   Sketch your design first on tracing paper If you plan on painting or incising a design using a wood-burning implement or engraver. Transfer your design to your gourd by overlaying it (this may be difficult because of the curved shape) or just drawing it in pencil, then going over it with the paintbrush or etching tool.

5. 

   Outline your edges in a darker color, then color in your detail. This makes the design stand out more.

6. 
   A finished gourd to look like Humpty Dumpty

   Finish your gourd with accessories, paints or anything that makes your craft beautiful.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are not finding the types of gourds you want, contact a local gardening club or gourd society. Someone there may have a local resource for you.
• Use caution if you use an etching tool.

Resources

• American Gourd Society