Celebrate the marriage of nature and art with more than 30 incredible projects made from gourds. Crafters will find creative inspiration right from the very first page, when they glimpse the stunning photos of gallery-quality pieces created by the finest contemporary artists. The practical work begins with a complete guide to choosing and preparing the gourds, and instruction on a range of handsome decorative techniques, including painting, woodburning, and basketry. The distinctive projects include bowls, boxes, birdhouses, purses, sculptures, unusual centerpieces, and holiday decorations. Photographs, actual-size patterns, and detailed instructions accompany each one, but the natural uniqueness of each gourd will make every finished product one-of-a-kind.