An ever-widening range of materials is being used by today's crafters to weave and coil baskets and to decorate gourds. Over 350 color images display the raw materials, techniques for their use, and final works of art created with them. Along with traditional materials such as reeds, white oak, ash, vines, plants, grasses, and bark, kudzu, grapevines, iris, sweetgrass, paper and wire provide new possibilities. Information is included on where to find natural materials, and how to collect and prepare them for weaving. Exciting uses for alternative materials are also explored, including wire, mesh, and recycled materials. Tutorials and projects from well-known weavers and gourd artists, along with an extensive list of resources, make this book a must have for weavers, crafters, and anyone with a passion for handcrafted fiber art.

In gourd art, there is a vast array of material that can be used when carving and decorating a gourd. When it comes to doing the rim, the options are just as varied. The best rims are those that complement the gourd's overall design. The rim "completes" the gourd--it makes the gourd look finished. Through more than 200 color images and tutorials from contributing artists, learn how to finish the rims of gourd bowls using chip stone, tubular beading, paper, coiling, leather, wire, clay, pine needle, and flowers. The rims illustrated range from the very simple to the extremely elaborate. A gallery of completed works will inspire your own creative ideas. This book is perfect for gourd artists of all skill levels.

Gourds are wonderful palettes for all types of art, with a vast array of materials available for everything from decorating crafty, cute gourds to making serious gourd art. Through 300 color images and tutorials from several contributing artists, see how embellishments can add variety to your gourd designs. Beads, metal, wire, clay, antlers, and other art materials are used to give character to a gourd mask, dress up a gourd doll, or add the final touch to gourd jewelry and holiday-themed gourd decorations. There is projects for all skill levels, whether you are new to gourds or a seasoned gourd artist. With patterns and a gallery of completed works, this is a fun book that will stimulate your creativity and inspire ideas for embellishing your own gourds.

Combine basket weaving and gourd art in this new DIY. With 200 color images and step-by-step directions, five projects are presented for both the beginner and advanced weaver: Twine and Triple Twine Gourd, Twill Woven Gourd, and a Gourd Basket with Four Rod Wale. Chapters cover preparing the gourd, weaving techniques, strengthening the rim, and adding embellishments to your finished woven gourd. Six contributing artists provide tips, and a gallery of completed works offers inspiration for creating your own designs.