Kaltura
Gourds that come off the farm are coated in dirt, decayed tissue and mildew. Leslie prepares each gourd for wood burning by washing its surface with soap, scrubber and sponge. After cleaning, she uses sandpaper to smooth out rough surfaces that prevent application of the design. The last step is to clean the surface with a moist towel, a process that also reveals the warm tones and contrasts that one will see after the gourd is varnished.