All of my gourd art pieces (including the gourd jewelry) have been sealed with varnish, acrylic sealer, or polyurethane to protect and enhance their beauty and longevity.  To further protect these art pieces, you must protect them as well. 

Below is a list of do’s and don’ts to assure that your gourd pieces last a lifetime.        

1.                  Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight (with the exception of the birdhouses and bird feeders which have been specially sealed).

2.                  Some of the gourd creations are very fragile, lightweight, and delicate.  Handle them with care.  They may break or crack if dropped.

3.                  When displaying cut flowers or a potted plant in your gourd vase, it would be wise to use a glass container or plastic plant saucer inside the vase.

4.                  If you purchased a birdhouse or bird feeder, once a year clean out the inside and spray inside and outside with polyurethane so the next new visitors will have a clean house.

5.                  Your gourd pieces may be cleaned with a soft cloth and furniture polish or they may be wiped with a soap and water cloth, rinsed, and then dried. 

6.                  If you purchased a salad bowl or other food safe container, wipe the inside with "General Finishes" Salad Bowl Finish periodically.