Second Pattern Today
I know that most of you have your garden or landscaping started. Did you know that Gnomes are considered good luck to the garden and its inhabitants in many cultures? Why not bring a little fun and good luck to your outdoor environments?
The history of gnomes is a quirky mix of myth, folklore, and garden decoration that goes back centuries:
Folklore Origins
European roots: Gnomes first appeared in Renaissance-era writings in the 1500s. Swiss alchemist Paracelsus described them as earth elementals—tiny, humanoid beings who lived underground and moved through the earth like fish through water.
Mythical traits: They were said to be wise, reclusive, and protectors of buried treasure and nature. Over time, this image evolved into the bearded, pointy-hatted figure we know today.
Gnomes in Folk Tales
In Germanic and Scandinavian folklore, gnome-like beings were common. They were often called tomte or nisse in Nordic countries—little old men who guarded homes and farms, especially around Christmas.
Garden Gnome Craze
The first garden gnomes were made in Germany in the 1800s, carved from clay and hand-painted. They were meant to bring good luck and protect gardens at night.
The idea spread to France and England by the late 19th century, and eventually across Europe.
In the 20th century, mass production made them wildly popular (and sometimes a little kitschy 😄).
Pop Culture Boost
Garden gnomes got a boost from pop culture in the 20th and 21st centuries—movies like Gnomeo & Juliet, internet memes, and even “gnome liberation” pranks kept them in the spotlight.
There's also the classic Traveling Gnome prank, where people "kidnap" garden gnomes and send pictures of them from around the world.
In short, gnomes went from mystical underground guardians to fun-loving yard ornaments with international flair. Not a bad glow-up for a 500-year-old legend! (Source: ChatGPT)
The pattern calls for 1/4" thick wood. The knome stands 10.25" tall. There are a couple of small interior cuts, so bring your 1/16" drill bit and #3 or #5 blades.
The Little Pink Pony pattern calls for 1/2" and 1/4" thick wood. I also included a short poem you can print and give with the pony as a gift.
In a land full of giggles and peppermint air,
Lived a pink little pony with ribbons in hair.
She zipped and she zapped through the blueberry trees,
Wearing striped socks that came up to her knees!
She bounced over bubbles, she skipped over snails,
She painted the rainbows with jellybean trails!
She'd giggle and wiggle and shout with delight,
"I'm the pinkest, the plinkest, from morning to night!"
So if you hear laughter that rings like a chime,
It might be that pony just having a time!
Garden Gnome Pattern.
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