Collect Native American Gourd Rattles

Native American gourd rattles carry a lot of cultural and historical significance

. They are made using actual gourds that have been specially prepared and cleaned. They are then painted and decorated using traditional Indian designs. Many different Indian tribes use rattles like these in their ceremonies, so when you purchase an Indian gourd rattle; you are truly investing in a piece of culture and history. They will make a great home accent pieces when displayed in your home.

Although most gourd rattles are made in a similar fashion, each Indian tribe uses different techniques when making their rattles. First gourds are needed. Normally,the gourds would be grown by the Native American themselves to be used for making rattles. An experienced rattle maker understands the specific shape that is needed to create rattles. There are many gourds that will work well for this, but not all. A gourd should be left on the vine until it matures in order to create a good rattle. When you can hear the seeds rattle inside when the gourd is shaken, you can tell that a gourd is ready to make into a rattle.

Next, the inside of the gourd will need to be cleaned. A small hole is cut and the seeds are taken out. In order to clean the rattle completely on the inside, special tools are used. The pulp and seeds must be removed before it can go through the creative process of gourd making. It must first be dried and prepared for becoming a rattle. Improving the sound quality and durability of the finished product, a gourd rattle will often times be painted or varnished.

Next, it is time to fill the rattle. Many times, tribes use unique and symbolic items inside the gourd. The items will hold a special meaning. But most times, the rattle will just be filled with seeds, dried corn or beads. The hole is then corked and the rattle is ready to paint.

Amazing rattles are hand made and then painted with Indian designs. Often, the artist will decorate the rattle with beadwork, leather and feathers. A great place for artistic beading or a leather wrapping is the handle of the gourd.

These rattles are often small, but with a little searching you can find some a little larger as well. Since they are made using authentic and time honored techniques, try and purchase ones that have been crafted by Indian artists.

Once you find one that you like, it is time to put it on display. These colorful American Indian gourd rattles will look stunning placed on a display shelf or even hanging on the wall. It can be fun to use these in a music room with other Native American instruments like drone flutes or drums are on display. These unique rattles will make a beautiful statement in your home decor and will quickly become treasured possessions in your home.

by: Craig Chambers

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