About this Product
Meet Tinsel, a handmade Christmas Elf decoration that is made with a real dried gourd!
I carved Tinsel's face by hand, just as you would a fresh jack-o-lantern. I cut the top off a gourd, then clean out the middle before I carve her happy face.
For added detail, I carve some wintery snowflakes that the candlelight can shine through.
I create Tinsel's custom elf hat using the gourd top.
Her hat is made with a winter white sherpa fleece and an earthy brown faux fur trim.
I decorate her elf hat with real pinecones, Christmas greenery, jingle bells, and winter twigs.
For a fun added touch, I engrave her name on the back using pyrography tools, also known as wood-burning.
Tinsel comes with a battery-operated candle. Turn on the candle timer setting around dusk. It stays on for about six hours and turns off on its own. You don't have to touch it again until the battery runs out and needs to be replaced.
It's so heartwarming when your gourd elves light up automatically as the sun is setting!
Tinsel is about 11.5 inches tall and x 6 inches wide.
BoutiqueBarn
Meet the Maker
Hello friends! My name is Christy and l welcome you to my shop :)
In my handmade shop, I feature unique pieces of home decor that add a little rustic and a little whimsy to your home.
I began my handmade journey of wood-burning artwork on reclaimed wood. The beautiful brown color in my artwork is created with pyrography, "drawing with fire". It is the perfect complement to the reclaimed wood that I use to create rustic wall hangings. All the artwork is wood-burned by hand, using pyrography tools.
When I discovered the incredibly versatile dried gourds, it was love at first sight! I instantly added them to my creative routine. I've always adored pumpkin carving, and here was a similar natural vegetable that will for many years without the shelf life of a fresh pumpkin. The dried gourd shells are very hard and perfect for carving and pyrography!
I use the gourds to create whimsical fall pumpkin characters with a ton of personality. I also enjoy turning the gourds into decorative bowls, vases, and vessels. Each gourd shape is unique, so each gourd piece is a one-of-a-kind!
How it’s Made
It all starts in my imagination! I consider the size and shape of the gourd I want to carve. I pick a name and a facial expression to match the character I have in mind. I then decorate the gourd or make a custom hat to reflect the personality I'm trying to convey.
Yes, they all have a name! I burn their names onto the back of each gourd which makes them even more fun to collect and gift to friends!
I purchase dried gourds grown in the United States.
Gourds are a real vegetable that grows on vines, just as a pumpkin does. When the gourds dry, their shell becomes very hard, making them perfect for carving.
This dried gourd will last for many, many years!
I use translucent paints and waxing to show off the gorgeous shell of the gourd which feels wonderfully smooth to the touch.
I like to dress my whimsical elves in style, so I channel my inner Madd Hatter and create beautiful hats full of gorgeous Christmas colors and textures. I use the gourd top as a base for the hat. The pointed elf hats have wire built-in, so you can have fun adjusting the crinkle just so.
I collect lots of different fabrics for hats. I love to incorporate upcycled fabrics and often use burlap from large coffee sacks.
If I can't find the color I want, I move ahead and dye the burlap to get the exact color I need.
I love textures, so I decorate the elf hats with lots of festive holiday, acorns, pinecones, and jingle bells.
I leave the inside unpainted because I think it's important to not forget the true nature of this Christmas Elf as a real vegetable!
Shop Policies
Return Policy - I do accept returns. Please reach out to me within 7 days of your purchase.
Custom Orders - I love working with you on special requests. Send me a message with your idea and we can chat about the possibilities!
WOOD WALL DECOR
Processing Time
Custom Pieces - 1-2 week processing time after the proof approval.
Finished Wall Art - Ships within 3-5 business days.
Commonly Asked Questions
Do you offer custom sizes? Yes! If I have the supplies, I am happy to work with the space you have so it fits nicely.
Do you do commissioned work? Yes! I love to help you bring the idea inside your head, out, and into your home.
How long does a custom or personalized piece take? I most often can complete a custom piece in a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the design. The exception is the holiday season. Please reach out to inquire about my current turnaround time.
Do you make wall art for businesses? Yes! Decorating your business with rustic wall art creates a warm and inviting space for your customers and employees. I can recreate your logo or company mottos etc on reclaimed wood.
How do I hang my wall art? I attach a classic saw tooth hanger on the back for you to hang your piece.
Is the wood heavy? All the wood I use is real and solid. Depending on the type of wood, yes it can be very heavy. I would recommend a drywall screw to hang your piece on.
GOURDS
Processing Time
Finished Gourds - I ship your orders within 3-5 days of purchase.
Custom Gourds - I ship your orders within a few weeks.
Commonly Asked Questions
1. Can I order a customized gourd character? Yes! I am happy to work with you on a personalized gourd for you. Just reach out and we can chat about your idea.
2. Can I order the hats separately? Not at this time. I use the coordinating gourd top to make the hat base. So the gourd top/hat fits the gourd exactly. I am contemplating making hats separately. Let me know if this might be a good idea... I'd love your input!
3. Can I use the gourds to decorate outside? These gourds are dried, but I wouldn't recommend letting them get wet with the weather elements. It's best to keep these as "indoor gourds".
4. Can I name my gourd? Sure! If you would like to name a gourd just let me know. This would fall into a custom piece, so I would just need a week or so to create this gourd for you.
5. Are there additional charges for custom gourds? This depends on the request. Please just send me a note with your request and I can let you know.
