| ~~ Fine Gourd Art ~~ Instructional Books & Patterns For Gourd Art |
Pine Needle Coiling Book -- A Beginner's Guide
Contains 34 pages, 23 black/white and color photos, and 23 illustration
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless requested.
If you have never coiled a thing or can't figure out how to do the basic stitches, this
booklet is for you! The information will not only get you started but also let you finish
unlimited number of pieces on gourds or wood. It will also teach you how to sew your
stitches where they will be straight on both sides ... not just one side.
Have you ever wondered where you are suppose to insert the needle in the back of the
piece as well as the front. This booklet contains detailed instructions and examples for
both the basic stitches (Plain, Split, Wheat, V, Fern, and Back Stitch) using thin
threading (upholsters & waxed linen) and wider threading (artificial sinew). It will also
explain starting out and coiling the first row with separate instructions for a gourd &
wood, hiding beginning & ending threads, & finishing off the last row. I've also added
instructions off how to do Floating Coils and how to coil over the holes drilled into the
gourd.
This booklet gives information concerning the handling of the pine needles ... gathering,
storing, drying, preparing for coiling, and removing the caps. It also addresses various
types of treading, gauges, sewing needles, & supplies you will need. Helpful tips are
given throughout the booklet of experiences Hellen has had with coiling as well as other
coilers.
Pattern Included -- Blueberry Delight ... Hellen added to the booklet already. This piece
is done a 1/4" thick 9" round board. She uses a V stitch throughout.
Comments:
Hellen will be updating this book starting in March, but it will take a few
months for her to get it done.
The new book will include the same stitches but with better instructions and
diagrams. Learn how to do the first row three different ways!!!
She will also include information how to dye pine needles,
This book will really take you from beginning to the end of any project and a
whole lot more of information.
She is going to share ALL her information.
Closed Coiling Book New
Contains 26 pages, 27 color photos, 4 graphs, 8 designs, and 1 pattern
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless requested.
Hellen loves doing this process even though it is very, very slow. She does it while
watching movies and takes projects on long trips.
You wrap 4-ply wax linen around a paper rush on top of a gourd. This type of process
gives her American Indian pieces that extra touch. She has won awards with this type
of coiling on them.
There are step-by-step written instructions with photos guiding you through this very
relaxing art form.
The book teaches you all the basics. Plus, it includes a form for calculating the holes
required for designs. Information included is a list of required supplies, sources to get
the supplies, patterns, and graph paper for developing your own designs. A open cross
pattern is included that is simple, but it teaches you all the basics.
Contains 34 pages, 23 black/white and color photos, and 23 illustration
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless requested.
If you have never coiled a thing or can't figure out how to do the basic stitches, this
booklet is for you! The information will not only get you started but also let you finish
unlimited number of pieces on gourds or wood. It will also teach you how to sew your
stitches where they will be straight on both sides ... not just one side.
Have you ever wondered where you are suppose to insert the needle in the back of the
piece as well as the front. This booklet contains detailed instructions and examples for
both the basic stitches (Plain, Split, Wheat, V, Fern, and Back Stitch) using thin
threading (upholsters & waxed linen) and wider threading (artificial sinew). It will also
explain starting out and coiling the first row with separate instructions for a gourd &
wood, hiding beginning & ending threads, & finishing off the last row. I've also added
instructions off how to do Floating Coils and how to coil over the holes drilled into the
gourd.
This booklet gives information concerning the handling of the pine needles ... gathering,
storing, drying, preparing for coiling, and removing the caps. It also addresses various
types of treading, gauges, sewing needles, & supplies you will need. Helpful tips are
given throughout the booklet of experiences Hellen has had with coiling as well as other
coilers.
Pattern Included -- Blueberry Delight ... Hellen added to the booklet already. This piece
is done a 1/4" thick 9" round board. She uses a V stitch throughout.
Comments:
Hellen will be updating this book starting in March, but it will take a few
months for her to get it done.
The new book will include the same stitches but with better instructions and
diagrams. Learn how to do the first row three different ways!!!
She will also include information how to dye pine needles,
This book will really take you from beginning to the end of any project and a
whole lot more of information.
She is going to share ALL her information.
Closed Coiling Book New
Contains 26 pages, 27 color photos, 4 graphs, 8 designs, and 1 pattern
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless requested.
Hellen loves doing this process even though it is very, very slow. She does it while
watching movies and takes projects on long trips.
You wrap 4-ply wax linen around a paper rush on top of a gourd. This type of process
gives her American Indian pieces that extra touch. She has won awards with this type
of coiling on them.
There are step-by-step written instructions with photos guiding you through this very
relaxing art form.
The book teaches you all the basics. Plus, it includes a form for calculating the holes
required for designs. Information included is a list of required supplies, sources to get
the supplies, patterns, and graph paper for developing your own designs. A open cross
pattern is included that is simple, but it teaches you all the basics.
"BUY NOW" BUTTONS: These are handled through PayPal. Therefore, you will have all the same security and benefits that PayPal
offers. You will also get to see what will be charged to your credit card upon clicking the button. I have also allowed the option of cancelling
your purchase if you change your mind.
PAY BY PERSONAL CHECK, MONEY ORDER, ETC.: Please go to the "Order Form" page ... click here ... and follow the
instructions.
ALTERNATE CREDIT CARD SERVICE: I also have another credit card service which I use at shows and studio purchases. We can
handle your purchase through a personal phone call. Just send me an e-mail with your phone number and name of the item from this web
site. I will be happy to give you a call. It only takes about a minute to process your order.
MULTIPLE PURCHASES: Since my web site service doesn't offer a "shopping cart" button, all purchases are billed as a single
purchase. Therefore, your credit card will be billed with two shipping fees. I package each gourd in a separate box for shipping in order for it
to be probably protected. Therefore, this charge is appropriate. The handling and insurance fees also will not change.
offers. You will also get to see what will be charged to your credit card upon clicking the button. I have also allowed the option of cancelling
your purchase if you change your mind.
PAY BY PERSONAL CHECK, MONEY ORDER, ETC.: Please go to the "Order Form" page ... click here ... and follow the
instructions.
ALTERNATE CREDIT CARD SERVICE: I also have another credit card service which I use at shows and studio purchases. We can
handle your purchase through a personal phone call. Just send me an e-mail with your phone number and name of the item from this web
site. I will be happy to give you a call. It only takes about a minute to process your order.
MULTIPLE PURCHASES: Since my web site service doesn't offer a "shopping cart" button, all purchases are billed as a single
purchase. Therefore, your credit card will be billed with two shipping fees. I package each gourd in a separate box for shipping in order for it
to be probably protected. Therefore, this charge is appropriate. The handling and insurance fees also will not change.
| Updated - September 2006 |
| Enclosed pattern Great for holding paper plates. Blueberry pattern not included. |
| Pattern in Book |
The Art of Painting with Acrylics New
Contains 30 pages and 21 photos
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
Hellen has also won numerous awards for her painting and has been
painting for 30+ years.
The book doesn't only teach you the basics but introduces you to
intermediate painting. It also addresses how to paint on wood and gourds.
She discusses her favorite types of paints, mediums, setting up your
palettes, varnishes, general supplies, brushes, care of brushes, and
transferring patterns. She even addresses how to clean the inside of a
gourd.
Hellen teaches you base coating, shading, highlighting, how to give depth
to your art, glazes, washes, and tinting. She has step-by-step photos with
instructions to the side.
One fantastic section with the book will give you the base, shading, and
highlighting colors for Americana paints. It also gives another section
using Jo Sonja's paints as the base and Americana paints for the shading
and highlighting.
She also shares sources so you will be able to mix colors to match just
about anything.
Contains 30 pages and 21 photos
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
Hellen has also won numerous awards for her painting and has been
painting for 30+ years.
The book doesn't only teach you the basics but introduces you to
intermediate painting. It also addresses how to paint on wood and gourds.
She discusses her favorite types of paints, mediums, setting up your
palettes, varnishes, general supplies, brushes, care of brushes, and
transferring patterns. She even addresses how to clean the inside of a
gourd.
Hellen teaches you base coating, shading, highlighting, how to give depth
to your art, glazes, washes, and tinting. She has step-by-step photos with
instructions to the side.
One fantastic section with the book will give you the base, shading, and
highlighting colors for Americana paints. It also gives another section
using Jo Sonja's paints as the base and Americana paints for the shading
and highlighting.
She also shares sources so you will be able to mix colors to match just
about anything.
Comin' Prepared Pattern New
Contains 10 pages and 26 photos/drawings
Cost: $10.00 ... $1.50 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
NOTE: The pattern is only for the Santa so you can design the surrounding
area as you wish.
Hellen has also won numerous awards for her Santa paintings.
The pattern lets you know what supplies you will need. A sections tells
you the painting area, brush needed, technique to use, and what color to
use for base coating, shading, highlighting, and washes/glazing.
Hellen teaches you base coating, shading, highlighting, how to give depth
to your art, glazes, fancy fur, washes, tinting, and how to paint a Christmas
tree. Step-by-step photos along with written instructions are included in
the Basic Techniques section for the piece.
A pattern is included that you are allowed to reduce or enlarge for your
piece. Of course, you can easily paint this piece on wood. Another
pattern shows areas to base paint before you shade/highlight the
surrounding areas.
Comments:
"Hellen's pattern was very complete, with a great forward section detailing all the
supplies and basic techniques, not usually found in other patterns. The many photos
made it very easy to follow the design and the details were spelled out in an easy to
understand fashion. I really enjoyed doing this Santa and hope to do many more of
this type in the future.
..... Darlene Propp - California
www.gourdoozie.com
NOTE: Darlene's piece is at the left. She added a personal touch with
snow on the hat and boots. Great Job Darlene!!
Contains 10 pages and 26 photos/drawings
Cost: $10.00 ... $1.50 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
NOTE: The pattern is only for the Santa so you can design the surrounding
area as you wish.
Hellen has also won numerous awards for her Santa paintings.
The pattern lets you know what supplies you will need. A sections tells
you the painting area, brush needed, technique to use, and what color to
use for base coating, shading, highlighting, and washes/glazing.
Hellen teaches you base coating, shading, highlighting, how to give depth
to your art, glazes, fancy fur, washes, tinting, and how to paint a Christmas
tree. Step-by-step photos along with written instructions are included in
the Basic Techniques section for the piece.
A pattern is included that you are allowed to reduce or enlarge for your
piece. Of course, you can easily paint this piece on wood. Another
pattern shows areas to base paint before you shade/highlight the
surrounding areas.
Comments:
"Hellen's pattern was very complete, with a great forward section detailing all the
supplies and basic techniques, not usually found in other patterns. The many photos
made it very easy to follow the design and the details were spelled out in an easy to
understand fashion. I really enjoyed doing this Santa and hope to do many more of
this type in the future.
..... Darlene Propp - California
www.gourdoozie.com
NOTE: Darlene's piece is at the left. She added a personal touch with
snow on the hat and boots. Great Job Darlene!!
| Books |
| Pattern |
| Examples of Hellen's Painting Style |
| Examples of Closed Coiling |
| Most of the designs within this web site are originals of Hellen Martin. Under no circumstances may they be used or reproduced in any form whatsoever without written permission. |
| Galleries of Pieces for Sale: Additional Pages: Carving, Wildlife & Woodburning About the Artist Southwest & American Indian Inspired Favorite Links Christmas & Santa Order Form & Order Information Pine Needle Coiling Why Pine Needle Coiling Cost So Much? Instructional Gourd Books and Patterns: Galleries: Pine Needle Coiling Woodburned Leather Tooling Award Winners Closed Coiling Let's Add Texture My Favorite Sold Pieces Acrylic Painting Bronze & Copper Metal Coatings Santa Pattern & Various Patinas Galleries Representing Hellen Martin: Photos and Information about the galleries Class Descriptions and Schedules Pieces located in each gallery Texas Indian Market & Southwest Showcase Home Photos of the Show I Attended in 2009. Contact the Artist: to discuss a special request, questions about an item, ask about teaching a class, &/or comments. You can also call the artist @ 817-907-3320. E-Mail Me .... or use hellenmartin@att.net or hellenmartin@aol.com |
| Southwestern ~ Native American Indian Inspired Wildlife ~ Western ~ Leather Tooling ~ Painting Woodburning ~ Craving ~ Pine Needle Coiling Closed Coiling ~ Santas Instructional Books & Patterns ~ Classes |
| Fine Gourd Art by Hellen Martin |
| Project in Book |
| Examples of Hellen's Western Leather Tooling Style |
Faux Western Leather Tooling on Gourds New
Contains 31 pages ~ 42 color photos ~ 6 patterns for practicing &
studying flowers & leaves ~ Photos giving step-by-step instructions
Cost: $20.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
This technique came to Hellen's attention a couple of years ago at a gourd
festival. She loved it but wanted her own style. So, she studied the normal
styles, asked lots of questions from leather toolers, and practiced ... a lot. She
has developed her own style and designs her own pieces. They have become very
popular with customers at Kiva Fine Art Gallery in Santa Fe, NM.
The book will give you steps pertaining to cleaning the gourd, special tips she
learned along the way, supplies used, how to prepare the rim for the holes, tools
to use, sources, and how to care for your burner. The project within the book will
take you step-by-step with photos for burning this technique and adding color to
it. Each photo has different color arrows pointing to each step that is mentioned
within the text.
One section within the book will give you the basics of designing you own piece.
Again, there are photos illustrating and discussing various designs, how to
calculate your flowers placement, and tips she has learned. Also in this section
are six patterns to use for practicing and studying flowers and leaves.
Comments:
Anyone who is lucky enough to get this book is in for a treat of a lifetime! It is just
wonderful, informative, and the instructions are not only easy to follow but all along the
way Hellen has included photos, well illustrated, of each step that show exactly what she is
doing. It is one of the best books you can find and I am certain that you all will have so
much fun learning this technique. I love my copy - as you can tell!
........ Rita Heller, IL
I have received the Woodburned Leather Tooling Book. It is great! At first when flipping
through the pages, I thought it was complicated but when reading it, I found Hellen to be
very talented in explaining in detail in a very easy manner. Also a little humor. (Ask her
about her husband's shorts.) I experimented on a practice piece or gourd, and I think I will
be able to do it after I improve my woodburning. As she said, "practice, practice, practice!"
........ Joyce Laverty, TX
Hellen did a wonderful job of putting so much information into this book. It's has photos
showing every step of the project. She has put a lot of thought into this book. Her section
for designing is great also. I hope she teaches a designing class!
....... Sara Johnson, CA
WOW! Talk about an outstanding book. The photos and directions are more than I
expected.. No one will have a problem doing the project. The designing section really gets
one motivated to design their own pieces. Love the book Hellen!
........ Jackie Brock, NM
While visiting Santa Fe, I purchased one of Hellen's tooling pieces from Kiva Fine Art
Gallery. When I got home I googled her by name and noticed she was actually writing a
book for this technique. I've been checking it for months so I could purchase the book. It
was worth the wait!! Excellent book!! I followed the step by step photos and instructions
and did a good piece the first time. When I started designing my piece, I called Hellen for
information. She was so helpful. Super artist and wonderful person!
........ Eric Wyatt, CO
Excellent book as well as an excellent artist! Hellen's book shows she wants to share her
knowledge with the world!
........ Ronald Rawlings, WY
Contains 31 pages ~ 42 color photos ~ 6 patterns for practicing &
studying flowers & leaves ~ Photos giving step-by-step instructions
Cost: $20.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
This technique came to Hellen's attention a couple of years ago at a gourd
festival. She loved it but wanted her own style. So, she studied the normal
styles, asked lots of questions from leather toolers, and practiced ... a lot. She
has developed her own style and designs her own pieces. They have become very
popular with customers at Kiva Fine Art Gallery in Santa Fe, NM.
The book will give you steps pertaining to cleaning the gourd, special tips she
learned along the way, supplies used, how to prepare the rim for the holes, tools
to use, sources, and how to care for your burner. The project within the book will
take you step-by-step with photos for burning this technique and adding color to
it. Each photo has different color arrows pointing to each step that is mentioned
within the text.
One section within the book will give you the basics of designing you own piece.
Again, there are photos illustrating and discussing various designs, how to
calculate your flowers placement, and tips she has learned. Also in this section
are six patterns to use for practicing and studying flowers and leaves.
Comments:
Anyone who is lucky enough to get this book is in for a treat of a lifetime! It is just
wonderful, informative, and the instructions are not only easy to follow but all along the
way Hellen has included photos, well illustrated, of each step that show exactly what she is
doing. It is one of the best books you can find and I am certain that you all will have so
much fun learning this technique. I love my copy - as you can tell!
........ Rita Heller, IL
I have received the Woodburned Leather Tooling Book. It is great! At first when flipping
through the pages, I thought it was complicated but when reading it, I found Hellen to be
very talented in explaining in detail in a very easy manner. Also a little humor. (Ask her
about her husband's shorts.) I experimented on a practice piece or gourd, and I think I will
be able to do it after I improve my woodburning. As she said, "practice, practice, practice!"
........ Joyce Laverty, TX
Hellen did a wonderful job of putting so much information into this book. It's has photos
showing every step of the project. She has put a lot of thought into this book. Her section
for designing is great also. I hope she teaches a designing class!
....... Sara Johnson, CA
WOW! Talk about an outstanding book. The photos and directions are more than I
expected.. No one will have a problem doing the project. The designing section really gets
one motivated to design their own pieces. Love the book Hellen!
........ Jackie Brock, NM
While visiting Santa Fe, I purchased one of Hellen's tooling pieces from Kiva Fine Art
Gallery. When I got home I googled her by name and noticed she was actually writing a
book for this technique. I've been checking it for months so I could purchase the book. It
was worth the wait!! Excellent book!! I followed the step by step photos and instructions
and did a good piece the first time. When I started designing my piece, I called Hellen for
information. She was so helpful. Super artist and wonderful person!
........ Eric Wyatt, CO
Excellent book as well as an excellent artist! Hellen's book shows she wants to share her
knowledge with the world!
........ Ronald Rawlings, WY
| Project in the Book |
| Examples of Hellen's Pieces with this Texture |
Let's Add Texture New
Contains 21 pages ~ 33 color photos ~ 1 project included
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
Hellen discoved this product completely by accident. After playing around with
it, she discovered several ways to add texture with it. It easy and fun.
The book will give you steps pertaining to cleaning the gourd, special tips she
learned along the way, supplies used, tools to use, and sources.
The project within the book will take you step-by-step with photos for putting on
the texture. The another step-by-step with photos how to put on the turquoise
finish.
There is a section about the basics of gourding. They include what she uses to
clean gourds inside and outside, painting the inside, and transferring the pattern.
Comments:
Contains 21 pages ~ 33 color photos ~ 1 project included
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
Hellen discoved this product completely by accident. After playing around with
it, she discovered several ways to add texture with it. It easy and fun.
The book will give you steps pertaining to cleaning the gourd, special tips she
learned along the way, supplies used, tools to use, and sources.
The project within the book will take you step-by-step with photos for putting on
the texture. The another step-by-step with photos how to put on the turquoise
finish.
There is a section about the basics of gourding. They include what she uses to
clean gourds inside and outside, painting the inside, and transferring the pattern.
Comments:
| Project in Book |
| Examples of Hellen's using the Metal Coating & Patinas |
Bronze & Copper Metal Coatings & Various Patinas New
Contains 25 pages ~ 31 color photos ~ Information about the products ~
Step-by-Step Photos of instructions for the project
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
This technique is done by utilizing industrial strength metal coating that is
painted on the gourd and various patinas that process with Copper and Bronze.
The products she uses within this book are discussed of how to use them and how
they process.
The book will give you information pertaining to special tips she learned along
the way, supplies used, tools to use, and sources. The project within the book
will take you step-by-step photos for applying these products.
One section within the book will give you the basics for cleaning the gourd inside
and outside, painting the inside, cutting, and transferring the design.
Comments:
Contains 25 pages ~ 31 color photos ~ Information about the products ~
Step-by-Step Photos of instructions for the project
Cost: $18.00 ... $2.00 for shipping/handling .... W\ill not be insured unless
requested.
This technique is done by utilizing industrial strength metal coating that is
painted on the gourd and various patinas that process with Copper and Bronze.
The products she uses within this book are discussed of how to use them and how
they process.
The book will give you information pertaining to special tips she learned along
the way, supplies used, tools to use, and sources. The project within the book
will take you step-by-step photos for applying these products.
One section within the book will give you the basics for cleaning the gourd inside
and outside, painting the inside, cutting, and transferring the design.
Comments:
Special Information: Hellen will ship all books within two days.
| Visit Woodburning page for more examples. |