is equipped with an irrigation system in which seeds pollinated by hand were sewn in the ground earlier this spring. The plants which are being raised in plastic, a method similar to what is used with watermelons or cantaloupes, have to date, produced thousands of gourds of varying shapes and sizes.

There are currently an estimated 20 different varieties of gourds growing in the field. "There is a huge demand in Kentucky," said Becky Gray, who plans to sell this year's bumper crop of gourds to other crafters throughout the state, as well as transform hundreds of them herself into various pieces to be sold at craft shows.

Gray first began painting gourds after she was given a box by a friend to make small Christmas ornaments. "It really started then," she said. Through the years, the Grays have continued to raise more gourds, while working to perfect the growing process. "I knew there was a market for them," said Gray's husband, Jackie. Together, the couple crafts bowls, baskets, birdhouses, ornaments, and other seasonal decor from the gourds.

The painstakingly hand-painted items - many of which are embossed using a wood burning technique - are sold at craft fairs and festivals held annually across the state. But the process starts with the crop being harvested. "We plan this year for next year's crafting," Becky Gray explained. The gourds are stored outside where they are
allowed to dry and cure for up to six months. Using various tools, including a brush and drill, the seeds are cleaned from inside the gourd. The gourds are then dipped in warm soapy water to remove the rough exterior skin and mildew. Each is hand-crafted into a unique piece of artwork depending on its shape and size.

The decorative gourds and birdhouses range on average, from $15 to $20. Smaller Christmas ornaments can be purchased for as little as $5, while the more ornately decorated bowls and baskets sell for around $35. September through December marks the busiest time of year for the Grays, whose gourds are in demand beginning in fall as both seasonal decorations and as gifts for the holidays with a Kentucky flavor.

The Grays plan to sell their gourds this year at festivals in Bardstown, Lexington and Louisville and at local craft fairs. They can also be purchased at the Corner Cafe in Park City where a variety are currently on display.