Springtime Decorative Gourds with Abeni Pierson

Workshop Description

Abi will introduce participants to the world of gourds! What they are, the different varieties, and how they’re grown. She’ll share some of the ways gourds have traditionally been used across cultures in the U.S. and around the world, from sound-making and storage to decorative and ceremonial uses.

From there, you’ll choose a gourd project to create:

Gourd Shaker (thread & beads):Using thick thread, we’ll weave a netting structure around the gourd and incorporate beads. The finished shaker creates a gentle, calming sound and feels really satisfying to hold and play.

Beaded Gourd Dry Container (wire & beads):If you’re more drawn to a decorative piece, you can use wire and beads to create a beaded gourd dry container using the same netting technique.

You’ll also have the option to saw open your gourd bottle and scrape out the seeds yourself. Those seeds will be shared with fellow participants. These bottles work beautifully for storing dry goods like sugar, tea leaves, or spices.

Before we begin working with saws, Dremels, and engraving tools, Abi will walk everyone through clear safety instructions. Gloves, goggles, and face masks will be available, and Abi be there to support you throughout the process.

Ages 10+ welcome! Participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.

Please note we have a sliding scale for tickets for this event! The break down is as follows:

General Admission #1: Covers the cost of workshop and materials

General Admission #2: Covers cost of workshop, materials, and supports the instructor

General Admission #3: Covers cost of workshop, materials, supports the instructor, and helps keep our workshops more accessible

About the Artist

Abeni Pierson is a fiber artist and educator based in California. After studying fashion design at Columbia College in Chicago, she shifted paths upon realizing the environmental harm and wastefulness of the fashion industry. This awakening led her to explore more sustainable practices rooted in nature. Using natural materials, Abeni creates work that honors traditional folk methods while promoting environmental mindfulness and hands-on creativity.

About SCRAP

We at SCRAP breathe new life into old arts & crafts supplies and reduce waste by diverting over 200 tons of materials heading to landfill every year. To learn more about SCRAP and our mission to make art materials & education more accessible to all, please visit our website at www.scrap-sf.org

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