I have an awesome fall craft for you today.  In this post I’m going to show you how to make Gourd Rattles and Maracas.  When you fill these gourds with pebbles they make the most playful sounds.  It is a festive way to use these gourds this fall season.  The kids will love playing with these noise makers…. Not to mention the great fun they will have making this craft.  So, grab the materials needed and let’s get started.

Check out our other Fall Crafts.

 

Materials Needed

Gourds (2 Round or 1 Oblong)

Large Bowl & Water

Awl (Parental Supervision)

Pebbles

Paper

Glue

2 Sticks (for Round Gourds)

Acrylic or Tempera Paints

Paintbrush

1/2 Glue & 1/2 Water Mixture

 

Step 1

Soak the dry gourd for 24 hours.

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Step 2

Using an Awl…. punch a hole in the gourd.  (Parental help needed for younger kids.)

 

Step 3

Shake out seeds.

 

Step 4

Drop in pebbles.

 

Step 5

Glue paper over the hole.

 

For Round Gourds

Step 6

Punch holes in both ends.  (Parental Supervision)   Shake out the seeds.

 

Step 7

Put stones in the gourd.  Insert stick.

 

Step 8

Paint bright designs with acrylics or tempera paints.  Let dry.  Make a mixture of half glue and half water.  Brush it over gourd.  Let dry.  Re-apply.

 

And, there you have it…. you have a gourd rattle or gourd maracas.  What did you decide to make?  Let me know in the comments below.  And, don’t forget to take a picture of your finished gourd craft…. add it to the comment too.  I’d love to see it.

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