When people think of gourds, they think of Halloween or autumn decorations. This is a true fact gourds can be a great accent for decoration outside or inside. Gourds are not limited to just squash, but pumpkins, and more. But similar to other crafts and decorations you can add to them by painting a design on them. Gourds are a fun craft to paint, because they provide fun shapes and textures to paint on. When deciding which gourd you are going to paint you will want to make sure that you choose a pattern that will compliment your gourd. Make sure to examine its shape, color, and size.
Most of us are not professional artists that can simply freehand a design. Therefore many do not think that painting a gourd with a fancy pattern can be accomplished. Painting gourds can be fun for all different ages and requires no skill. This can be accomplished by using a pre-made pattern. Where do you find designs and patterns to paint on your gourd? You can choose this pattern from coloring books, fabric designs from your home. All you will need to do is take your pattern and use a photocopier to enlarge or reduce the size of your pattern to fit your gourd. Again you will want to select a gourd that will compliment the pattern you have chosen. Carefully look at the shape of your gourd to see if you can turn it different direction for the pattern. You may need to choose a gourd that is yellow, speckled, or green.
Now that you have selected your gourd and your design you will need to prep your gourd. Make sure that your gourd is clean, dry, and fresh before applying the patter. The pattern is easily transferred by placing graphite paper between the pattern and the gourd with the graphite side facing away from the pattern. You will then tape the patter to your gourd and trace the pattern with a pencil.
Once you have completed tracing your pattern, you are ready for paint. You will want to begin using a paint sealer on your gourd before you begin painting. This helps to prevent your paint from chipping off. If you have chosen not to use the natural color of your gourd you will want to apply two to three coats of basecoat over the sealer. Spray paint is an option to use to help eliminate time spent painting. Now you are ready to begin painting your design. After you have completed your gourd you will use the sealer again to protect it from weather elements.
If you want to add to your gourd besides paint, you might consider adding embellishments. Such as if you are painting your gourd like a clown, scarecrow, witch etc. You can add hair, hats, etc. You can also change your gourd into another fruit by painting it into a watermelon, or a sunflower, etc.
Unfortunately your gourd will not last if you do not take care and store your gourd correctly. If you store and maintain your gourd correctly you can usually enjoy your painted gourd for quite a few months. Make sure that you do not stack your gourds on top of each other. Just lake fruits they need fresh air circulation and a dry place. This will prevent them from becoming soft and misshaped. Also if the weather is cold outside you will want to bring them inside during the night so they do not freeze. You will be able to display your gourds inside or outside throughout the autumn season and add some festivity to your home.