Creating a gourd lid for a gourd begins with the cut and having the right tools to make it easily happen. In this post, we will learn two ways to create a lid. I will share tips from Welburn and a tutorial from master gourd artist, Bonnie Gibbson.
How to Cut a “Hidden Lid” into the Gourd
The first important step for both methods is to find a gourd that is not too thin! The gourd in the photo is too thin and too fragile to work with safely.
Besides, the cut pattern does not have to be a circle. Whatever the cut shape, it is a good idea to have a unique cut to help you find the correct placement.
The best tool for this job is a jigsaw that has a thin blade,
You want a clean, smooth line.
It is also better to cut farther down from the top to give the lid more surface to sit on.
Also, aim your blade in a downward slant.
Hidden Gourd Lids with Placement Keys
Thinking about this tip before you cut will add interest to the gourd and make it easier to use.
Challenge yourself to go beyond the circle cut!
You might also consider a lid that represents a shape to add interest to your gourd
You can also change the knob on your lid
Use botanicals to enhance the design.
Notice the small gourd and the different cut .
Here the small gourd’s neck is used as stopper.
What about a piece of cactus on a Southwest gourd?
Attach an antler bone!
Or just create something unusual!
The following Welburn video also suggests that you paint the interior of the gourd with black paint and the outside edge under the cut rim, with black dye. In the video, you will learn why it isn’t the other way around and how it can help the beginner cutter.,
Making Bonnies’ Lid Stopper
Instead of cutting the lid from the gourd itself, you can make a decorative added lid with a stopper using gourd scraps and scrap pieces of wood. This technique can be used on any gourd shape, but it works especially well with canteen and kettle gourds.
Read her article for directions
Consider her tutorial, Added Lids which has 7 pages (1 color page) $7.
This type of lid will always fit, because it is like a bottle stopper, fitting into a round hole. No more worrying about your lid dropping into the gourd or not lining up to fit properly. Also included are information and patterns for creating decorative handles from a variety of materials.
I hope these idea will encourage you to try one of these techniques. A lid always makes a gourd special!
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Where did you purchase that hand jig saw?