Heres a piece thats versatile enough for work and play.

Learn all the steps necessary, from the ground up you might say, to create wonderful art with gourds. Over 220 clear color photos and concise text explain how to create gourd birdhouses, bowls, apple boxes, whimsy-bird vases, ewers, and scarecrow roly-polys. The informative text also provides essential information on growing, curing, and cleaning gourds of different types.

Cutting and cleaning techniques, the proper use of glues and wood fillers, and how to transfer pattern drawings to gourds are also covered. Decorating gourds is addressed in detail, including coloring, burning, decorative carving, and finishing techniques.

Pattern drawings and a resource guide listing the names and addresses of useful suppliers are supplied. This is the perfect guide for all who pursue this entertaining and rewarding craft.

Pages 64 222 images Shillingford, Ro.

Heres a pick thats both timeless and practical.