There is a place near our house that's called Smucker's Gourd Farm.
Even though they don't usually do classes for people Roseanna, their daughter, agreed to teach the PA Creations Club.
Years ago a family from Minnesota (who had a gourd farm) came to see the Amish. After passing a few Amish buggies they decided that the next one they met they were going to follow and meet who ever was inside. It so happened to be the Smuckers mom. They became friends and visited every year after that. One year they gave the Smucker's some gourd seeds, and that's how they got started.
They don't harvest the gourds in the fall, they harvest them in the spring after drying in the fields all winter! This is the machine they use to clean the gourds with just soap and water.
They put them into these bins to dry out after they've been cleaned.
Then they paint them.
For the class we made adorable little snowmen.
First we painted the gourds with sponges.
Waiting for the paint to dry...
Next we chose what hat and scarves we wanted.
Of course you have to have a smile and eyes, which we markered on.
Then we painted on the carrot nose.
Then we glued the hats, scarves, and pieces of coal/buttons on.
Next Roseanna used a dremel to put holes in the gourd where the sticks would become arms.
Great job Benjamin and Lillia!
Everyone did a fabulous job!
Smuckers Gourd Farm
317 Springville Rd, Kinzers, PA 17535
That was such an interesting post, Hope and your photographer. I had no idea the gourds dried in the field over the winter. Your projects are ADORABLE! What cute decorations for this winter. That is an impressive shop. I think we need a field trip!
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