March 20, 2010  Bird Sculpture Workshop by Liz Meyer and Sue Kostka

Click here for pictures to help you select a gourd suitable for a bird sculpture.

Gourd Bird Sculpture Workshop Ideas, Supplies and Materials

1. First, decide how in-depth you want to go and start simple.  Ideas.
2. Gourd suitable for the type of bird you want to create.  Use your imagination, look at pictures of birds.  More experienced individuals may want to join more than one gourd to create a bird.
3. If you want a beak you can use/shape the stem or create one with toothpicks and paper clay, another gourd stem, twig, wood dowel, etc.
4. If you want to burn feathers or other designs, bring your woodburner.
5. Finishes-Any type you want.  Examples: Prismcolor pencils or pens, oils, oil pencils, stains, dyes, inks, acrylic paint (opaque is best if you are planning on burning).  
6. Eyes–You can use beads, tacks, brads, or simply a circle of paint.
7. Leg(s), Base/Stand–Consider the size of your finished project and make the leg(s) and base or stand proportional.  For leg(s) use dowel, stick, twig, wire, gourd stem, etc.  For a base/stand consider any relatively flat bottomed item such as driftwood, gourd piece, napkin ring, rock.
8. Other supplies you might want to bring are: pencil, Sharpie pen, glue, craft knife, sandpaper, etc.

At the class, Liz will demo some ideas on shaping wings.  If you have any questions about the class, call Liz or Sue.  See you on the 20th!