I will review your choices for Sanding Tools for your Gourd Art. You will find that many of your decision will be determined by the gourd and your dexterity. Just because a product works well on wood, does not mean it will work on our gourds. Let’s look at what most gourd artists are choosing.
When looking at sanders and sanding tools for your gourd art, sandpapers will be one of your most frequent buys
Despite the name, modern sandpaper sheets contain no sand. Sand has been replaced by more effective natural abrasives, such as garnet, and synthetic abrasives, such as aluminum oxide. The different types of sandpaper have three primary characteristics: its grit, its abrasive material, and an open or closed coat. Garnet is the best sandpaper for wood hand-sanding, but doesn’t last long. Flint sandpaper is economical, but not particularly durable. It is best for rough work on small projects and is used less commonly than many other sandpapers.
Sandpaper grits measure the coarseness of the paper. A piece of sandpaper’s grit number refers to the number of holes per square inch in the screens used to sieve the grains during manufacture: the lower the grit number, the more course the paper. Our major concern with sanding gourds is not to scratch or gouge the surface! Most gourd artists suggest not going below 240 grit.
Tip: Determine the time to change sandpaper by running your fingertip over the section of the paper you’ve been using. If it feels significantly smoother than a rough, unused part of the paper, begin sanding with a fresh section.
Consider my favorite sandpaper when choosing sanding tools for your Gourd Art,
This sandpaper is not on paper but is attached to netting. Abranet combines high performance and a longer lifespan than traditional abrasives, making it a cost-effective solution for sanding a gourd. Designed for dry sanding by machine or by hand, its low dust-free sanding characteristics result in a cleaner work environment, as well as a better surface finish on the gourd. This netting surface works dry or wet which comes in handy when you are trying to clean the surface of a wet gourd. I simply rinse the netting of any dust and put it away for the next time. It seems to last forever. But it is more expensive and usually comes with a selection of gits. This pack on Amazon is not a bad deal. Mirka 9A-149-APRP 2 3/4-Inch by 5-Inch Abranet Assortment Pack, 1 Each P80 – P600 $22.9s
When I was teaching I bought my favorite grits, 240 and 600 on 100 ft rolls. I would be happy to cut a five-inch piece off and send it to you to try before you commit to more. Check the store on the website for this item. This item needs to be on your list of sanders and sanding tools for your gourd art toolbox.
You may need these other sanding tools for your gourd art
Sanding a gourd by hand is the only way you can get around the stem and the bottom. Here are a few clever hand tools that have helped meet that challenge.
The Sackorange Hook and Loop Hand Sanding Block – Sanding Pad – 5 Inch Hook Backing Plate for Sanders or Polishers(5 inches) $9, Amazon
This little tool is made with Urethane which is flexible and very durable. So it will curve with a gourd surface! It has the hook & loop backing, The Sanding Pad will take any number of 5″ hook and loop sanding discs or a variety of other kinds of surfaces from sponges to buffing material. Therefore, you can get a good grip and it is soft enough that your hands won’t cramp when doing a lot of sanding!
Your list of sanders and sanding tools for your Gourd Art should also have some of these sanding sticks
PRO PACK Double-Ended Sander -15 PACK
Consider these Q-tip sanding sticks! The perfect shape for so many jobs, similar to a matchstick gives better sanding and shaping of many materials. Smooth and shape wood and more. Also 5 Wedge shapes for flat areas! There is a different grit on each side! https://mountainwoodcarvers.com/
Plastic Sanding Needles.
When even the smallest of carving tools are too big for some projects, these plastic sanding needles will be a big relief.
3 of each: 320 grit Fine, 240 Medium, and 150 Coarse.
Approx length 4.25″ x diameter 3/16″
An assortment of our super popular Plastic Sanding Needles. $11
Here is another version of a stick sander. With this one, you can replace the sanding strips with other grits. In reality, you will need a stick for each grit you like using, so you don’t have to keep exchanging strips. For many, this is a great choice for sanding gourds The design of this sanding stick allows you to rotate the belt so all areas of the belt may be utilized. Also the spring-loaded tension allows the belt to stay in place and the tapered end permits easy access to minute detail. This 9×2-1/2 inch package contains one sanding stick and one extra belt.
You might need a few sanding pads on your list of sanding tools for your gourd art
Sanding gourds with the Gator Finishing 7800 Step-123 Micro Zip Sander Project Pack $12, https://mountainwoodcarvers.com/
This is another tool for detail areas I like to use. The tool fits my hand nicely and allows me to add pressure when I need to get small areas of wax off the surface of the gourd. It will also reach the tough pieces of fiber in concaved areas of the back of a shard. Also, this pack comes with the hook and loop sanding sheets. You can cut any sandpaper you have to replace what is here.
Sanding Square
2110 -$1.00 EACH
Sanding Squares are made with a soft foam core with a different grit on each side. Grit and color will vary, no choice. 1 3/8″ x 3 1/2″ x 1/8″https://mountainwoodcarvers.com/
Micro carver users might consider these sanding bits
If you own a micro carver, then you have the opportunity to buy small cones that fit on a special shaft. They come in large sizes and small sizes. I use the small one on my shard jewelry and it saves me lots of time. https://mountainwoodcarvers.com/
Avoid stacks of sandpaper in your box of sanding tools for gourd art
Mirka 9A-232-APRP 5-Inch Abranet Assortment Pack. Amazon
When sanding gourds, I found that there are hundreds of choices, but everything is in different sizes. It was filling an entire draw and hard to manage. Finally,I decided to buy sanding tools that use hook and loop sandpaper in the 5-inch format. The Hand Sanding block I mention above fits that requirement. There are also Abranet discs in this size. I use and recommend you start with this kit, Mirka 9A-232-APRP 5-Inch Abranet Assortment Pack because it includes the pad which will make the paper stick better. Then, when you know which grit is best for your work, you can spend the money for an entire box of circles.
3M Pro Grade No-Slip Grip Advanced Sandpaper, 9 X 11-Inches, 220 Grit, 20/Pack, Amazon
Here is a new one to try from 3M. They say it gives off less dust and lasts longer. But when I tested it against my Abranet, I didn’t think it was any better. Sadly,I ended up with purple residue all over my work table. But do test it for yourself.
Buy the buffing pad in the same size
LotFancy 5-Inch Wool Polishing Pads
Used with Rotary and Random Orbit Sander/Polisher, Pack of 2 $10. Amazon
Once your gourd is sanded, you might want to buff it. When I finish my tangling with my wood burner, sometimes I use wax for the final coat, then buff it till it has a nice natural shine. You can do it by hand or with an orbital sander with a 5-inch hook and loop disc.
A power sander is an ultimate answer for which sander to buy for your your gourd art
Once you have found your favorite sandpaper for sanding gourds and start doing several gourds at a time, you will need to consider a power tool. Ultimately, most gourd artists realize a power tool is the only answer for this job.
What I considered necessary in a gourd sander
The problems are many because most gourd artists are women like me with arthritis in our hands or with small hands that can’t fit around a big sander handle. The other difficulty is the vibration. I have learned from experience, that the cheaper the tool, the more the vibration! Staying with my 5-inch disc requirement, I am going to recommend the orbital disc sanders for large gourds.
Here are my requirements
· It should be lightweight, so I can hold it at an angle on the gourd.
· I need it to be comfortable to hold with little vibration.
· There should be a cord long enough to work away from the outlet.
· And I would prefer one with a dust collector.
I also wear these when I am woodburning!
A must-buy for your sanding tools for your gourd art is good hand protection!
Flammi Women’s Exercise Gloves Fitness Gym Workout
Gloves Fundamental Training Gloves, Amazon $8.95
Eventually, vibration will be a problem with your sander if you use it for long periods. My solution is padded gloves with no fingertips. This one comes in different women’s sizes and has extra palm padding. Plus, there are also little breathable holes on the back of the fingers. The material is lightweight and comfortable, not ridged. And you can still hold on to your gourd!
Equally imprtant, on your protection list are earplugs and a dust mask. I cover dust masks in this post if you haven’t purchased one yet.
A Palm Sander
This type might be a good choice as one of your sanding tools for your gourd art
When buying a sander, normally my first suggestion would be the mini category. But, that ignores the fact that many like working on large gourds and don’t want to spend a lot of time sanding if they are going to carve or filigree. In this case, consider a lightweight one that is quiet.
The Bosch ROS20VSC Palm Sander , $56, Amazon
The Bosch ROS20VSC Palm Sander has 2.5 Amps with 5 inch disks. It is corded with variable speed. The Random Orbital Sander/Polisher Kit comes with a dust collector and soft carrying bag. The soft-grip top allows the user to have multiple grip positions including at an angle. Surprisingly, this sander weighs 3. 5 lb. which is one of the lightest on the market. You can adjust the speed between 7,500 and 12,000 opm.
It also features an integral pad dampening system that helps prevent swirl marks and has a hook-and-loop disc attachment. This sander has a built-in micro filter system that traps particles as small as 1/2 microns in diameter. But remember when you are sanding gourds you will need to empty the filter trap often!
The microfilter dust canister curtails dust spillback into the sander. This ensures that users aren’t breathing in too much dust. The sander is compatible with standard 1-1/4-inch and 1-1/2-inch vacuum hoses or any Bosch vacuum cleaner hose, and it features a dust-sealed switch.
A Mini Sanders might be one of the perfect sanding tools for your gourd art toolbox.
Three mini sanders are popular with gourd artists. Each style is available in different brands. These three are recommended the most by gourders. But buy what you can afford. The truth is, this will not be the last one you own! If you find one of these on sale, then buy it for your collection. No matter which you choose, hold these tools in your hand and see if you can easily turn them off while you are using them. Is the handle comfortable? Now, let’s talk about the mini category.
Proxxon – Detail Sander, Model OZI 115/E
Notably, this tool works in the tightest of spots. The sanding area of 2-1/2″ x 2-1/2″ x 2-1/2″ works with its hook & loop pads and allows for quick changing and use of all 3 corners. Simply remove and rotate through 120° for a fresh corner.
It is 9 inches long and weighs about one pound. The Zinc streamlined die-cast head provides stable housing for moving parts and ensures longevity. It’s sanding plate has an adhesive pad to accept sandpaper or fleece with any hook & loop system. Fortunately, I can cut my Abranet paper to fit the shape and it holds it nicely!
There is a separate on/off switch and speed control dial for perfect speed every time and it is easy to reach. The kit comes with sandpaper, both hard and soft polishing pads, and a storage case. For $125
What is more, you can buy a special jigsaw gourd foot for this tool. Welburn has one available for $35. They also sell the tool but be sure to check their prices.
Consider buying Sanders with Transformers as part of your Sanding Tools for your gourd art
The top three sanders to consider for gourds come with their transformers. Each brand with its version. Usually bought separately. The advantage is that it also works with their jigsaw. So I will include them here in the description.
The Caning Shop’s Tools Learn more here
GOURD SAW KIT – Gourd Saw, Blades, Power Supply, Tool Bag $100
The 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. Another advantage, the small rounded foot does not obscure your vision.
You’ll easily be able to follow your line when cutting. The on/off switch is comfortably placed for convenient access. Its lightweight (only 11 ounces) and smooth handling, at 4,500 strokes per minute, makes the Gourd Saw the most enjoyable miniature saw for cutting gourds.
I have had mine for 10 years, but not really. This saw seems to have a life-long warranty. The Caning Shop owner will fix or replace it for free. I’ve had 4 in my lifetime. This shop has had a booth at the Arizona Gourd Festival for years and has treated us all the same way. If you haven’t visited this vendor you should. Good product! Good Service!
Caning’s Gourd Sander
GOURD SANDER KIT – Gourd Sander, Sanding Sponges, Power Supply, Tool Bag Price: $99.95
The sander is also easy to use. A precise, lightweight orbital sander coupled with a unique hook and loop sanding sponges, easily finishes the contours of your gourd, even in the hard-to-reach neck area.
Author’s note: You can buy each tool separately and then buy the #70061/70063 Variable Speed Gourd Power Supply for $39.95.
Micro-Maker makes two sanders and a saw for gourders under the Micro-lux label. These are considered the top of the line. Both tools take the same transformer.
Please note: The #87365 Transformer is REQUIRED for ALL Micro-Make™ Miniature Power Tools. This tools will not operate without it. About $70,
Gourd Saw
First, let’s look at the saw. Micro-Make™ Gourd / Cross Saw, About $89
The saw’s small, rounded shoe permits high maneuverability on both smooth and bumpy surfaces and keeps the cutting line visible for increased accuracy. By the way, if you want bends and curves in tight spaces on a smaller gourd, this one can’t be beaten! Unfortunately, the drawback is its Maximum cutting thickness: 9/32″. It weighs 9 ounces and is 3-1/2 inches long. Runs at 1,800 to 6,900 rpm and has a 12VDC motor.
I like this saw for cutting shapes or an uneven rim. The saw and transformer prices at about $170.
Be sure your gourd shell isn’t super thick or you’ll break blades often! Their blades are pretty short so sometimes they won’t even go down deep enough to cut through a thick-shelled gourd. Therefore, beware that there’s no easy way to get that last 1/8th inch or so cut through. But it’s still the best hand jigsaw out there for gourds when cutting curves, so be very slow and patient with it. It Includes an Allen wrench and 10 blades for softwoods and other craft items.
Can I cut a gourd using my Micro Carver? 2
This is a popular question when I discuss cutting a gourd so I thought I share my answer here in this post. Yes, you can! There are two bits available.
Gourd Cutter &Fili-Point Bur 1/8″ shank, $7
- Long-Lasting Carbide Bur
- 1/8″ Shank
- Cut your thick gourds https://mountainwoodcarvers.com/
Fili-Point Bur 1/8″ shank
$11.95
Called the”Fili-Point” Burr because it is designed specifically for creating micro-filigree and large filigree. It is also strong enough to cut through thick-shelled gourds, so you can make intricate cuts, and your gourd cut-outs!
The Fili-Point burr has a grit coarse enough to cut through thick shells with ease, yet fine enough to leave a nice, smooth finish on the cut line! $12
Gourd Sander
One of these sanders is usually in a master gourd artists toolbox
# 15225 $74.95 , Micromark.com
Micro-Make™ Orbital Sander oscillates in a circular pattern, giving you smooth, scratch-free finishes when sanding gourds. Use whenever you need a small, compact sanding tool. By the way, it now includes their new Hook-and-Loop Sandpaper System, with 2 sheets of loop-backed sandpaper and one PSA-backed hook sheet to be applied to the tool’s sanding pad. This was recently added so if you have one and like it, you might want to upgrade.
Micro-Make™ 3D Contour Sander $130,Micromark.com
At the present time, there are a lot of gourd artists who have an old version of this sander and won’t give it up! But it also has upgraded to a hook and loop system. So it may be on many more wish lists. This unique tool makes easy, clean work of the difficult tasks of shaping and finishing 3D objects. It works well on the curved surface of a gourd. Ideally, this one is small and lightweight, so your hand will not get tired quickly. There are 3 rotating pendulum wheels, spinning from 100 to 1,500 rpm, and hugs tight to concave, convex, and planed surfaces.
Furthermore, it does quick removel and is excellant at fine finishing on all shapes of gourds. Includes 1 set of 3 quick-change hook-and-loop-backed sanding disks. 1- 9/16″ diameter disks sand a 3-3/8″ path in a single pass.
The Gourd Dilemma
Gourds come in different sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. Therefore, one sander or one saw is not going to meet all your needs. You will eventually have to expand your list of tools for your sander and sanding gourd toolbox. Ask around when you are among gourd artists and see what they are using and how they determine which tool works best with each problem gourd. By the way, there are two more tools I would like to recommend for your collection. Both are my favorites and worth considering if you plan on working a lot with gourds over several years.
This luxury tool replaces all the varieties of sandpaper for gourds
RIKON – 1″ x 30″ Belt, 5″ Disc Sander Model 50-151 $139.99
We all need to create shards and many times we need to flatten a gourd so it sits straight. I make jewelry out of gourds, so I create hundreds of shards and I don’t do them by hand!
After buying the big cracked gourds at the farm, I cover them with a bath towel. Then I hit the gourd with a hammer until I get the size of the shapes I want. The edges are sharp and the back has fiber stuck to the wood. at this point, I go to my belt sander and round the edges and sand off the fiber on the back. About 2 minutes for each shard. I bought the belt sander on sale for about $100. Actually, the style setup is more important than the brand for this tool. So look around.
What about the Cordless Sanders?
No cord would mean you can cut your gourd anywhere. At an event, in the yard and it might be a better answer than a transformer and a short electrical cord!
BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, Cordless, Compact (LPS7000)
This jigsaw recently hit the market and women gourd artists started to rave. First of all, it is cordless! That means you can use it outside anywhere! Look out thick gourds, because this machine will work on you!
Its motor delivers 2500 rpm and features a tool-free blade change eliminating project downtime while a built-in dust blower and a wire guard provide a clear line of sight. Also,the jigsaw has a 45-degree bevel shoe capacity for angled cuts in both directions. It weighs about 4 pounds. Accepts both U and T shank blades.
Now for the bad news! Here are the Amazon prices for the battery.
The battery and charger are sold separately. You want the 20V MAX . Amazon wants $46 for the battery and $36 for the charger.
What this tells me is, if you want a cordless, go hold different ones in your hand and look at what other tools fit the battery. You invest in the best battery system for your needs. I ended up with Ryobi because of the garden tools included.
Woodworker Source
- There are many local stores here in America and I usually can find my Abranet sandpaper and wood burners there.
- 1-800-423-2450
Grizzly
- grizzly.com
- This is filled with Taiwan-made products. Think Harbor Fright on steroids!
- 1-800-523-4777
- Stores in Washington and Missouri.
Your sanders and sanding tools for your gourd art toolbox will probably be the most expensive part of doing gourd art
I have found over the years, that the choice of power tools is the most expensive part of gourd art. Also, I have learned that expensive tools deliver the best performance if they are comfortable to use.
I think they are like shoes. You know they have to be comfortable to wear and over time you are going to have more than one pair. Think that way about your wood burner, your jigsaw, your carver, and your sander. Take good care of them so they last. Another suggestion, look beyond the big box stores. You might consider paying more attention to local woodworking stores and consider ordering different tool catalogs. My husband, a woodworker, and woodturner has introduced me to these vendors and I have found some great deals here.
Packard Woodworks
- packwoodworks.com
- 1-800-8876
- This is a favorite of mine. The company serves woodturners but, also has carving tools, sanding supplies, and wood burners. You will also find surface powders, inlay powders, and some interesting paint finishes in their catalog.
Lee Valley
- Leevalley.com
- 1-800-871-8158
- This vendor is in the U.S. and Canada.
- Love this store for its unique gardening and kitchen tools.
- That will surprise you because they are known for carrying quality tools for all woodworking projects. Sign up for their catalog and take a look.
Rockler
- https://www.rockler.com/
- 1-800-279-4441
- This is another vendor located in many U.S. cities. They have a great collection of glues, dust collection systems along with stains and dyes that all work on gourds.
More Information from Me
There are other posts on the website you may want to read on the topic of tools.
Beginner’s Guide to Cleaning a Gourd
Finally, my best advise is research and handle what you want, then start pricing the unit at different locations. If you are not in a hurry, wait for the holiday times and check local stores for sales.
What sanding tools do you use and why?
Please, share your thoughts here in the comment box or
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