natural gourd preparation

[donnak-Tx]

I ordered gourds that have the drain holes, and entrance holes in place. I want to add the access port. The instructions suggest using a drill bit to create a pilot hole and then using a keyhole saw. Why couldn't you use a 4 inch hole saw with your drill to create this hole?
I have soaked my gourds in copper sulfate, and painted them with primer. I'm adding a canopy and a porch as well.
These are large gourds- would they be too heavy to hang at the corners of my S&K house? Thanks for your help.

[John & Linda - KY]

vintage54 -- Any method that gives the correct size hole is fine. The hole saws are fairly expensive. I draw an outline of the insert to be used, drill an access hole for the saw blade, then use a jigsaw to cut the opening. A keyhole saw would also work, it would just be a little slower. Small imperfections in the hole aren't a problem, since you're going to use caulk to hold the insert in place. -- John

[Emil Pampell-Tx]

Hole saws can be dangerous, because its difficult to hold the gourd still, so the gourd may slip, and anything can then happen. I personally would feel unsafe with a hole saw, but some people do like and use them. If you are very good at using them, then go ahead and use the hole saw.

[donnak-Tx]

Thanks John & Emil- I wish I had a jigsaw. Maybe I should get one for father's day for my hubby?! I hadn't thought about the gourd moving while using a hole saw. Good at it...? Well, I'm blonde married to an aggie- and it does wear off on you after awhile. thanks!

[Emil Pampell-Tx]

Well if you married an Aggie, then congratulations on a wise choice!

[Guest]

AND, congratulations on being blonde, too

Speaking from experience, when we cut the access ports 4" they were too small. We had to go back and cut another 1/4" - that was no fun. Be sure and take John's advice and draw around the insert that that you are going to use. To keep the gourd from slipping, we used the plastic bubble wrap..

Good luck,


lanell