There are four very active gourd patches within the Michigan Gourd Society.
A patch consists of gourd enthusiasts who get together on a regular basis to exchange ideas, learn new techniques and work on art projects together. We encourage members to start new patches in their areas and participate in other patch activities when they are able. Our patches are located in the Ann Arbor, Jackson, Sauble Point and Traverse City areas.
The definition of a gourd: noun
1. the hard-shelled fruit of any of various plants, especially those of Lagenaria siceraria (white-flowered gourd or bottle gourd) whose dried shell is used for bowls and other utensils, and Cucurbita pepo (yellow-flowered gourd) used ornamentally.
Compare gourd family.
2. a plant bearing such a fruit.
3. a dried and excavated gourd shell used as a bottle, dipper, flask, etc.
4. a gourd-shaped, small-necked bottle or flask.
But if you ask someone who works with gourds, their eyes will light up and you will get as many definitions of a gourd as there are people. Everyone has their own style and skill at ‘gourding’ (if there is such a word). You are only limited by your imagination when it comes to making a gourd.
Come join the Michigan Gourd Society to experience the new / old art of decorating gourds.
Contact the Michigan Gourd Society at michigangourdsociety@gmail.com or attend a patch meeting.
2020 update: Because of Covid-19 check with MGS at
michigangourdsociety@gmail.com
for patch meetings and times
The Jackson Patch meets the 2nd Saturday of the month
from 10 to 4pm at:
Jackson Public Library
Carnegie Branch
224 West Michigan Ave
Jackson Michigan 48201
from 10 to 4pm at:
Jackson Public Library
Carnegie Branch
224 West Michigan Ave
Jackson Michigan 48201
The Ann Arbor Patch contact Tammy at gourdgeousgourder@att.net
The Sauble Points Patch meets the 1st Saturday of the month
from 10 to 3pm at:
Trinity Lutheran Church
5631 W. Stony Lake Road
New Era Michigan
from 10 to 3pm at:
Trinity Lutheran Church
5631 W. Stony Lake Road
New Era Michigan
