"This is one of those books you need to look at, put down, pick back up, and go through several times. You will find something new each time. The book is well laid out with a good basic history as well as a wonderful variety of techniques and good examples shown in large color photos. Though there are "projects", it is more a springboard book in that it is intended to give a brief summary, examples, and then lets the reader explore on their own. Jim Widess and Ginger Summit have provided the seasoned gourd veteran and curious beginner alike with a book that adds a bounty of ideas to an art form that has been developed by people all over the world for centuries. I recommend this to any person, whether aspiring or experienced, as a gourd artist and a cool book if you just like the idea of functional folk art book in your library. " - K.A. Lebherz-Gelinas, Fort Valley, Georgia

"This is a great book for advanced gourd artists. It makes your creative juices flow!" - Laughing Bear

"This book is very well written. I can't wait to work on my gourds, trying out some of these techniques. You won't be sorry if you love to work with gourds and you purchase this book!" - Marie Wagner, Gilbert, Arizona

"I'm new to gourd art and was looking for ideas and techniques to try. This book provides both. The artwork is fantastic and the pieces portrayed are inspirational. A dozen different techniques are showcased with photos of several completed pieces created with each technique and with various tools. Some of the artists tell how they created their pieces in a general way, while others explain in great detail. I love the mix of styles and methods. I would recommend this book to any gourd enthusiast. The Complete Book of Gourd Craft, by the same authors, is also a great book for beginning gourd artists." - Sally Renk

"One of the best books of gourd designs I have seen in a long time. The designs capture your imagination and put it to work in seeing gourds in a more sophisticated and modern genre. Congratulations to Jim Widess and Ginger Summit." - Mary Schisler, Paradise, California

"Having worked with gourds for quite a number of years now, I have of course collected quite a number of books on the subject. This work is certainly at the top of the list as to being useful. Most aspect of the art of carving gourds can be found in this wonderfully illustrated volume. Some of the subjects covered are fretwork, engraving, linear carving, chip carving, using gouges, relief carving, inlay techniques, deep relief or sculptural carving, supply sources and the use of high-speed grinder burrs and tips. There are hundreds of high quality color photographs. This work if of great value if for no other reason that it is a great source for new ideas. The text is well done and where applicable, step by step instructions are quite easy to follow. Recommend this one highly." - D. Blankenship, The Ozarks

"I have been working with gourds for almost a year and have several books on gourds, but this book tops them all. This is a beautifully done book with excellent pictures and good instructions on carving gourds. What I like the most is how challenging and inspiring this book is. After looking through it once, I have so many ideas about how I can improve my designs and techniques, even though it will take me years to achieve the same level of quality. I definitely recommend this book to those who want to take their craft to the next level!" - J. Comden, Osceala, Indiana