With spade bit in chosen size, cut entry hole, with size dependant on type of birds you wish to attract, approximately two thirds of the way up one side. Do not cut hole lower as birds will avoid those homes where holes are cut to low, possibly allowing babies to fall out prematurely. Some suggested sizes:
Wrens and bluebirds require holes cut between 1” and 1 ¼”.
For chickadees, drill the opening approximately 1 1/8”.
Purple martins and flickers require larger holes measuring 2 ½”.
Cleaning Interior
Once hole is cut, clean inside carefully. The handle of a long handled wooden spoon works well. Swish around inside, breaking up as much of the interior as you can. Inside will not be entirely clean. Shake out what loose material you can. Avoid cracking gourd or entry hole by being to aggressive. Complete this step by lightly sanding edge of entry.
Drain Holes and Hanging
Using 1/8" bit, drill several holes in bottom of gourd for drainage, allowing any water that may enter from rainstorms, etc., an exit point. Also, drill a hole though the top part of the gourd. Run rope or line through drilled hole, knot, creating hanging loop.
Decorating
Gourds can be decorated in whatever manner you choose. Arrange dried flowers and apply Modge Podge, or paint directly onto the gourd with acrylics. Inked designs work well, and the variety of stamps available makes it possible for even the non-artistic to create a pleasing design. Seal design with several coats of Krylon Make it Last Clear Coat Sealant or other outdoor safe sealant spray, and reapply as needed.
Materials List for Sweet Grass Edged Bowl
Dried gourd, from last years garden, or purchased. Round shapes with flatter bottoms make the best bowls.
Wooden spoon for scraping clean the inside of gourd
Sandpaper in heavy and fine grits. Start with the heavy and finish with the fine.
Drill and 1/8" bit
Carpenters pencil or chalk
Krylon Make it Last Clear Coat Sealant or other outdoor safe sealant spray
Sinew
Yarn needle
Sweet grass for bowl edge, amount required will depend on width of bowl's edge, and thickness applied.