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Best Tools for Cutting a Hard Gourd

 

Best tools for cutting a hard gourd are many. Let’s look at the most poplar ones and what really works well. 

 

Best tools for cutting a hard gourd 

Cutting into a Gourd

Everyone early on their gourd journey should learn this basic skill. The secret to a happy experience is using the right tools. Near the top of my list of gourd, the tool is a lightweight jigsaw that will hold up cutting through any gourd thickness. This will get expensive if it is going to last. but I insist that it must be easy to hold and works every time. The problem with most of them on the market is the flat plate that sits over the blade. Does not cut curves with ease. In the end, I have three different saws. And I use them all. So here are the ones you should considerl 

Make sure you hold them before you buy them if you can. 
jigsaw cutting gourd

Here are the jigzaws  I have Used

Black+Decker Jigsaw, Cordless,LPS7000

This one is the best for cutting the top off of thick gourds.It cuts wood up to 1 in. thick, as well as plywood, branches, dowels, corrugate, PVC, metal pipe, and more materials.

Makes both quick, straight cuts and curved cuts with precision if you go slow. You can switch between cutting positions in seconds.Also, it has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that retains its charge for up to 18 months.

The LPS7000 cordless compact jigsaw comes with a charger and one scrolling blade.The price at Amazon is $45. It is a work horse when cutting into a gourd. So look for it on sale and grap it. 

cutting a gourd black and decker
saw and box

Best tools for cutting a hard gourd 

Try cutting into a gourd with this one

Proxxon STS/E.

It is a heavy-duty machine. But it has a few features that won me over. First, this one plugs into the wall, not a transformer. It comes from Welburn so they have fitted it with a smaller round plate that glides easily over the gourd and you can see your pencil line better. The major issue I have with this one is the placement of the off/on the switch. I can’t reach it with my little finger as I hold the running saw. Solve that problem by getting the foot press with it. So if you are looking for a new one or want to replace one check out the Super Jigsaw Proxxon STS/E with Foot Pedal, Saw Blades, and Storage Case

Best tools for cutting a hard gourd 

Many gourd artists like cutting into a gourd using a saw with a transformer

Micro-Make™ / MicroLux® Gourd / Cross Saw

This one cuts intricate patterns and model parts in softwood, hardwood, plastic, fiberglass, thin plywood, and non-ferrous metal. Speed: 1,800 to 6,900 rpm. It is easy to hold and guide. It also comes with 10 saw blades for wood. Additionally, it has available a 10-foot extention cord which is handy if you are cutting into a gourd outside. I like this one for cutting shapes or an uneven rim. On the negative side, this saw needs a transformer. The saw and transformer prices at about $170. If you go this route then also look at their mini sander. It is also a great tool. I have been cutting into gourds with this tool many time. 

 

cutting into a gourd with microlux saw
cutting a gourd canning saw

The Caning Shop’s very own, remarkable, Gourd Saw™ is smaller than the Minicraft or Proxxon saws, yet accepts their blades. With its small, rounded foot, you can skillfully cut in the concave area of the neck of the gourd and other areas inaccessible to the larger saws. The small rounded foot does not obscure your vision. You’ll easily be able to follow your line when cutting.

It will cut any gourd that’s is less than the blade is long.

The on/off switch is comfortably placed for convenient access. Its lightweight (only 11 ounces) and smooth handling, at 4,500 strokes per minute, make the Gourd Saw the most enjoyable miniature saw for cutting gourds. The price is $70. I have had mine for 10 year, but not really. This saw seems to have a life-long warranty. The owner will fix or replace it for free. I’ve had 4 in my lifetime. The shop has had a booth at the Arizona festival for years and has treated us all the same way. This one has a transformer and also a sander companion. I recommend the #70061/70063 Variable Speed Gourd Power Supply for $39.95.

Best tools for cutting a hard gourd 

Cuttng into a gourd is an outside activity

Before you begin, make sure you have your mask and some  artists like wearing fingerless gloves.  Once your line is drawn, begin by cutting or drilling a small hole to insert your blade. Go slow and move the gourd, trying to keep the  saw blade straight and steady. 

making a slit in the gourd
dirty inside of gourd
hand full of seeds

 

And don’t throw those seeds away. They make great embellishments. Clean them off well and keep them in a clear plastic jar so you don’t forget you have them.

Here are some videos to watch.

Welburn demos the jigsaw

Getting an even line on a gourd

ExpertVillage Leaf Group

 

Cutting a gourd with a dremel

 

Instructional video on cutting gourds in half for African Masks. Using the Caning saw.

Diane Bruder

What do you use to cut gourds? Show off your favorite. Be sure to tell us why.

Share your thoughts here in the comment box or share them with all the gourd artists on our Facebook Group Page. 

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Bettie Lake

I am a former art educator and gourd art master helping new artists understand how to succeed with gourd art. I use my blog posts and our Facebook Group Page to communicate with my followers. Hopefully you learn some new things from this post and will return to read others.

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