I buy fresh gourds in autumn, dry them by my wood stove all winter and spring, and begin creating a “family” of about 13 gourds in summer. They are ready to sell by fall, so the whole process takes one turn around the Great Wheel, or one year, from start to finish.

My Luthier husband spray seals the hand painted gourds and handles with four coats of hard, clear acrylic protective finish, which illuminates the colors and gives a three dimensional quality to the multiple layers of paint. Now the rattles shine like jewels! The protective sealer also enhances the individual voice of each rattle—some tinkle like chimes, some resonate powerfully. A gourd’s thickness, size, and handle wood type will also contribute to its unique sound. The gourds are water proof and very durable under normal conditions of use. They are meant to be played with passion, and they also make beautiful art objects to display in your home.

Many of the rattles in the Gourd Rattle Gallery have already found homes. I show them so you receive a good idea of the range of my designs and prices, and the sizes and shapes the rattles can take. I can approximate existing designs, however every gourd is different, and this dictates how the design emerges. I gather wood for handles on nature walks, so no handles will ever be alike. Truly, every rattle has its own unique personality.

The rattle gallery shows all my current designs. Rattles in stock are labeled "available now" next to the item no. Out of stock designs are made to order. See order page for details. I also make rattles on commission under the following arrangement: Tell me the theme you have in mind, such as an animal, plant, mythological or goddess image. Describe your rattle’s intended purpose. Indicate general size and loudness preferences. It is helpful to have a telephone conversation to really flesh out your idea. Then let me use my talent and connection to divine artistic inspiration to create your special rattle. I have done this many times with amazing results that often surprise the buyer with how closely the rattle came to illustrating hidden aspects of their personal history or inner life that we did not discuss in our conversation. See order page for details.