Gourds are used often in crafts and decorating because of their strong consistence and unique visual appeal. They can be put on display as soon as they are picked up, and they will last for months without any additional help from you. If you want to do something more, however, you can turn them into interesting decorations by drying them. Once dried, gourds can be used in artistic displays to make bowls, birdhouses, and table decorations.
If you have decided to dry a gourd, keep in mind that the process with take six months to a year, depending on its size. If you are working on a project that requires dry gourds, you will either need to buy them already dried at a craft store, or postpone the craft until the materials are ready.
Before drying gourds, wash them with a mix of water and bleach to get rid of any bacteria or fungus that can destroy the plant later on. If you have the opportunity of hanging them from the stem, do so, as this will prevent rotten spots on the base. If hanging them is not possible, place them on a wooden board and remember to turn them frequently so all areas are exposed to air circulation. Always keep gourds in a well ventilated area so any excess moisture can dissipate. To test if they are dried, shake them gently — if you can hear the seeds inside, they're ready. Be gentle with the gourds as they are drying, since they become fragile and prone to soft spots.
After the gourds have dried, they will become hard on the outside and ready to be cut, carved, stained, or painted. You can even wash them or brush them often to remove any superficial dust without being afraid of damaging them, although you should be careful not to damage the decoration. Many people like to use them to make birdhouses and feeders, as they resist all types of weather once dried. To make a basic bird feeder, simply cut a hole on the side of the gourd and fill it with seeds before hanging it out on a tree.
