How to Wax Gourds After Painting Them

Wax creates a luster on any painted gourd.

Gourd painting has become a popular craft for hobbyists. Gourds are similar to pumpkins. They are easy to hollow out and have a hard shell perfect for carving and decorating. After all the hard work of carving and painting, you probably will want to protect your work. Waxing your gourd is a good way to protect your design against everyday use.

Things You'll Need

• Floor wax or shoe wax
• Soft cloths

Instructions

1. Remove any dirt or debris from the gourd. Use a damp cloth if necessary to thoroughly clean the gourd. Let it dry completely.

2. Scoop a generous amount of wax onto soft cloth. Apply wax onto the gourd in a circular motion. Cover the entire surface of the gourd.

3. Remove excess wax by continuing a circular motion with cloth. The wax will start to shine. This is buffing. The shine will increase as the buffing continues. Stop when you have reached desired amount of luster.

Tips & Warnings

• Paste wax for floors is commonly used with gourd art. Shoe wax also will work, and it comes in many neutral and bright colors.

• Keep any gourd with colored wax from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Check gourd occasionally for cracks and reapply wax as needed.

• Do not use car or boat wax.

References

• "Complete Book of Gourd Craft"; Ginger Summit, Jim Widess; 1996