The Craft of Gourding: Seasonal Pumpkin Design

Turn a gift from nature into a striking piece of seasonal art. This workshop introduces students to the distinct and rewarding medium of gourd crafting through the creation of a stylized autumn pumpkin. Focusing heavily on the core elements of design and color, you will learn how to select your gourd and master proper preparation techniques, including cleaning, sanding, and leveling. We will experiment with various color application methods, discuss minimal versus adorned compositions, and cover essential sealing techniques. You’ll leave with a sophisticated, completed piece perfect for the fall season. Materials are included. All skill levels welcome. This program takes place in-person at Mt. Cuba Center Saturday, October 17, 2026. 🥬 Gift or take home 🥬 New class About the Instructor: Jeff McCombie is driven by the beauty of nature to produce organic vessels. Hard shell gourds are said to be one of the oldest art forms, dating back over 5,00 years. Jeff has borrowed techniques from various other media to create functional vessels for today’s living. His work has transitioned from over thirty years of research and experimentation. He has developed techniques that create impressions of wood, leather, pottery, bronze, and granite. Through his work, Jeff attempts to explore our struggle to find perfect balance in an imperfect world. Sometimes true beauty lies hidden in the imperfect. REGISTER NOW: General Public Individual+ & Dual+ Members Supporter, Advocate & Conservator Members