Hidden Flowers

Class description

In this class you will learn how to measure around the gourd and evenly space where you will place the 4 inserts for the hidden flowers and the 4 flower patterns. Then you'll create the openings for the gourd inserts. The pattern will then be placed on and burned and stained. The inserts will be completed and put in place. Additional patterns will be randomly added around the gourd and wood burned. We will talk about how to stipple around the flowers successfully and then complete this step and finish the painting and the top coat. We will talk briefly about how to create a lid that fits and inverting a gourd.

Depending on the size of your gourd, the stippling may take you longer to complete and finish painting in the allotted class time.

I will provide: Tutorial and patterns, gourd insert rings, stain, black paint, graphite paper, glue and wood filler.

What you are asked to bring

Each student is asked to bring a gourd of your choice that is approximately 20 inches around at the widest point and cleaned inside and out. (The 2 that are in the examples were both inverted.)

Note: If you cannot obtain a gourd as described, I can prepare a class-ready gourd for you, and you can pay me $10.00 when you arrive to class. You must let me know before August 1st to give me time to prepare your gourd.

( [email protected] or 208-880-2632 )

Also bring: 

• A wood burner with a skew, shader, and bent wire tip
• Rotary tool with a small bull nose and medium sized ball burr (you may want to bring all your burning tips and your burrs)
• Paint brushes of various sizes
• Your gourd saw and exacto knife 
• If you wish to use a color other than black for the outside, feel free to bring it
• A dust mask
• Eye protection (safety glasses or glasses that you normally wear)

Class Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel this class, you MUST contact us before August 30, 2022 in order to receive a refund. Note that NGS will withhold $10 to cover processing fees. To cancel, call Patti Jo Newsom at 817-917-7873 or email us at [email protected]

If this class does not meet its minimum number of students by August 30th, the class will be cancelled, you will be contacted, and your registration fee will be refunded.

All classes are subject to change.       

About the instructor

I began with gourds in 2002 after being introduced to them be a grade school friend. Now my main art form, along with wood turning, and sewing, it has become my main interest. I especially enjoy pyrography and carving. I now teach pyrography at the local Woodcraft store and find it most rewarding.

Questions about this class?

Contact Liz at [email protected] or 208-880-2632.