This post will discuss 2 ways to inlay a stone into a gourd. I will talk about the tools and sources and then you can watch two gourd artists,Bonnie Gibson and Miriam Joy show you how they do it.
Inlaying a stone into a gourd can add a professional look to your gourd art. Fortunately, flat sided stones are available in many colors and shapes. I prefer the flat back cabochons stones. You can also use plugs and other embellishments with a flat size.
Finding the stones
Most large hobby stores carry them. You can order them from online from bead stores like Fire Mountain Gems or search Amazon. I often find nice bargains at gourd festivals and art shows. and small plugs, but curved stones can be inlayed with a little more effort.
Tools Need ti Inlay a Stone into a Gourd
You will need a Dremel and the proper bits and burrs. Both of our artists begin with a ball burr to start cutting the shape into the gourd surface. Then use other diamond burrs to create the depth and perfect fit.
Button Are Easy to Inlay
I use the shank buttons on many of my necklaces.
Bonnie Gibson demonstrates how she does that. If you are hesitant about this process, start with the button first to get the feel of using the tools properly.
The General Process to Inlay a Stone into a Gourd
Wear a mask for this process and remember to hold on to the dremel securely and take your time.
You begin by drawing a line around your stone with a pencil.
To help hold the large ones in place, Bonnie suggests using some reusable adhesive that can be pulled off and stuck to the back of the stone.
Use the ball burr to take off most of the skin. The most important tip is Not to cut and remove your pencil line. Miriam uses a 5/16 round ball.
Diamond burs are sized in millimeters so you can match the millimeter size of the stone. Or at least get close.
Once you find one that is the best fit, then rock it forward into the hole to deepen it. Test the stone and repeat the process until it sits correctly. Any bead glue will work to hold the stone secure. Bonnie suggest E6000.
Both of the following videos will walk you through the same processof how to inlay a stone into a gourd , but with different perspectives.
Before you leave take a look at how gourd artists have used stone inlays in their work. The first image is the gourd Bonnie refers to in her video with all the brown plugs.
Do you have other tips you can share with our readers?
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