162 clear color photos and lively instructions teach readers to create imaginative and colorful Christmas ornaments made from hard-shelled, miniature gourds. The designs include birdhouses, snowmen, angels, tree balls, double tree balls, tree toppers, and wall hangings. Step-by-step instructions proceed from initial gourd cleaning to final painting, wood burning, and the installation of hangers. Simple tools are required to complete the projects. Advice for growing gourds and a gallery of finished ornaments are provided to fire the reader"s imagination to create beautiful handcrafted objects.