The Decorated Gourd: Beautiful Projects & New Techniques

By Dyan Mai Peterson

Book Overview

Beginners will discover in these pages endless inspiration, comprehensive information, and fabulous color photos. Thirty-five projects, many with templates, range from practical (a Dotted Horse Utensil Holder) to whimsical (a clock that doesn't tell time) to Holiday Easter "eggs" and splendid Christmas ornaments. "The results are gorgeous."- Chicago Tribune.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1579902472
• ISBN13: 9781579902476
• Release Date: October 2002
• Publisher: Lark Books
• Length: 128 Pages
• Weight: 1.56 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10.5" x 0.8" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

The most thorough introduction to gourd crafting that's out

This is the first book I purchased on the way to becoming a gourd crafter--I chose it not only because of the unusual and beautiful designs, but for Dyan Peterson's easy and encouraging approach/tone which other reviewers have pointed out. For me,the most valuable suggestion from this book has been to "branch out" and try unusual designs. Dyan Peterson's style (earthtones, natural designs and embellishments) is what originally attracted me. I'm not one for santas and cute pumpkins--these projects are somewhat more art than craft-oriented. I highly recommend this to seasoned gourd crafters who want to try something new, or to artists like myself who are interested in painting, sculpture and pottery and are looking for a new medium (an addicting one at that!) to experiment with. As Dyan Peterson would say, Happy Gourd Days!

Beautiful Book!

For artist that want to try their hand at gourd art, this is a beautifully illustrated book. Artists are very visual , and this one will motivate you visually to get started or give you more ideas to create your own works of art.

Inspiring

This book has something for every and anyone interested in gourd crafting. Clear instructions written in Dyan's appealing natural tone along with the beautiful photography will encourage beginners to test their creativity and inspire experience gourd crafters to stretch. As an experienced gourd artist(with my masks having appeared on the covers of two national maazines), since reading the book my work has taken a different, more adventurous turn. Using the techniques as a starting point, both the gifted artist and the amateur will be amazed at the work he/she can create. And, best of all, every time I pick up the book, I discover something new that I've missed before. I hope this is the beginning of a series of gourd art books for Dyan Mai Peterson.

The Decorated Gourd

Ms. Peterson's new addition to the gourd crafting community is another giant step towards unlocking the creativity hidden in all of us. She will take you from garden to a piece of artwork through easy to understand methods. Beautifully illustrated, "The Decorated Gourd" has the ablility to let you see the talent in a novice crafter such as myself, or hone the tecniques of the seasoned artist. This is a much welcomed addition to any crafters library, exploring new mediums and ideas. With Ms. Peterson's guidence, a few simple supplies, and imagination, it will allow almost anyone to create a piece of beauty. Enjoy this book at your own peril, it could lead to a lifetime filled with natures canveses transformed into works of art.

A great resource for beginners and advanced gourders!

Dyan has written a book that will be of interest to all levels of skills. The basics are included for the novice, and stimulating ideas for the experienced crafter. She has included lots of projects - step by step with complete materials lists - that will be satisfying and fun for all. Best of all, she explores using some unusual techniques that will awaken your own creativity. I enjoyed the tips and techniques that are included throughout. I don't buy many books, but this one will join Ginger Summit/Jim Widess' book "The Complete Book of Gourd Craft" as one of the great gourd references that I am proud to own.