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Native American gourd rattles have been used for many years in traditional ceremonies and dances. When made properly they make beautiful music. They are also lovely home accents. Many people don’t realize that these rattles are actually made from all natural gourds. They will look great hanging on the wall, placed on a shelf or displayed with other Native American instruments. Keep reading to learn more about these rattles so that you can better appreciate their unique beauty. 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. A specific shape is needed to create rattles and an experienced rattle maker understands this specific shape. 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. Excess pulp and all the seeds need to be removed before you can use each one for a rattle. 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. Some tribes use special, symbolic items inside the gourd. The items will hold a special meaning. Otherwise the rattle can 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. Try to find ones that are made by Indian artists since they are made using authentic and time honored techniques. 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.
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