Woodland Gnome Boy

Inspiration

s I fed my insatiable desire to learn everything there is to know about gnomes, I became aware of Woodland Gnomes. The more I read about these interesting creatures the more intrigued I became. I used my newly acquired knowledge as the inspiration for this unique Woodland Boy Gnome figurine. Also known as Forest Gnomes, these delightful collectibles embody their mystical and elusive nature. Despite conventional wisdom, gnomes are very social. Therefore, this gnome has a companion, the Woodland Gnome Girl. Hence, pair them together for a perfect gift to the fantasy lovers in your life.

The Research

During my teenage years, my older sister, gave me the most wonderful book about gnomes (Huygen, Wil, and Rien Poortvliet. Gnomes: Text by Wil Huygen. London: Pan Books, 1977. Print.). As you may imagine, the book was full of marvelous illustrations and specific details about the life of gnomes. Not surprisingly, this book still occupies a special place on my bookshelves.

Woodland Gnomes are often mistaken as Garden Gnomes. But, make no mistake, these are two vastly different species. In fact, Garden Gnomes live in backyards where there are plenty of flowerbeds to tend. However, Woodland Gnomes live in the woods. They love shady areas where moisture is abundant, decomposed leaves feed the soil, moss and lichens grow on tree trunks and the ground is covered by ferns, trilliums, and jack in the pulpits.

Woodland Gnomes tend to attract butterflies. So, as you are out and about through the woods, keep an eye for butterflies. According to studies, if you see at least three butterflies fluttering around, Woodland Gnomes may be nearby. Also, keep an eye out for them foraging for mushrooms and wildflower seeds in the deepest areas of the woods.

Woodland Gnome Boy Ornament Design Process

Legend states that male Woodland Gnomes wear tall pointy hats. So, I designed him with a tall hat made of red felt. Then, to protect him from the wet soil, I gave him leather boots. Finally, I added a leather belt to complete his outfit. Most gnomes are friendly in nature so I gave him a tender and sweet expression that framed his pudgy rosy nose. Even young gnomes have facial hair — long beards, mustaches, and bushy eyebrows so I used raw wool for his hair. And for the body, I used old wooden thread spools that a friend gave to me that had once belonged to her late mother in-law. So, these spools make these ornaments extra magical.