Earlier Idea Revisited

Sometimes ideas come bursting forth. While working on the Emma Cane reimagining project, the mechanics for an earlier project [Monday, Sept. 9} come to mind. Remember the Mistrals Daughter concept? The gourd was painted a base coat of tan with the idea to streak two shades of brown over it to imitate a wood surface.

Initially, the plan was to cut the gourd open and hinge it on the side so it opened to the text, like a book. However, upon reflecting with another artist about her recycling project using a guitar to be used as a  cabinet, it seems cutting it open with the hinge on the bottom would allow the 'viola' to sit on a stand and the front fold down from the top to reveal the text of the book.

What would be the best way to attach the hinge so it maintains a sturdy connection with repeated use?