All gourd bowls, no matter what size, make a wonderful space to place dry flowers or potpourri, or with a cloth to cover the bottom, can be used for bread or rolls.

You could also put a cloth in the bottom and place fresh fruit in your gourd bowl.   A potted plant could be placed in a gourd bowl with a protective liner beneath the plant to protect the gourd from any moisture.

A large candle with faux grapes or ivy makes a beautiful centerpiece with your gourd bowl or platter.   And something as simple as storing pencils, keys or spare change or candy is often done in a small gourd.   There are endless ways to use a gorgeous gourd piece, even if you just set it out to enjoy its beauty.

Keep in mind that all of my gourd bowls are for decorative purposes only and should not be used for wet foodstuffs, or holding anything liquid.

Gourd art can last a lifetime if you take care of it.   It's ok to dust it with a lightly dampened soft cloth, just don't immerse them in water or get them real wet.   Even an occasional paste wax and gentle buffing is good for the gourd.   Remember tho if you rub too hard, you could rub off the colors.  Gourds are breakable too.   Yes they are very sturdy but if you drop them, they can easily crack or break.

Gourds not only come in different shapes and sizes, but they come in different thicknesses.   My gourd art uses all gourds.   Just keep in mind that the thin ones are more fragile than the thicker ones.   Either way, a piece of gourd art is a beautiful thing and if taken care of, can last a lifetime.

Gourd art is beautiful to look at and knowing how much time and effort goes into the creativity of each gourd piece, makes the gourd art all that more special. 

I hope you enjoy my artwork.   I truly enjoy creating it for you.