New Handmade Mate Gourd (cup) with straw (Bombilla) This set includes one Mate Gourd and one straw (Bombilla). These Mate gourds were carefully selected by us for the quality, thickness and craftsmanship along with the natural coloring methods They are handmade by artisans, each gourd will have its own unique characteristics. In general gourds are approximately the size of an average fruit (apple, pear or peach), some are a little bigger, some are a little smaller. It varies because they are natural. You will also get with this set a booklet with detailed information about the mate ritual and instructions on how to cure your gourd. HERE IS SOME INFO ABOUT HOW TO CURE THE Balibetov Mate Gourd: For your gourd to be ready for use, it needs to be cured. This helps prevent cracking, molding, and improves the flavor. You will notice that the longer you use your gourd, the better your Yerba Mate will taste. Fill the Gourd three quarters with Yerba Mate. Pour hot (not boiling) water into the Gourd until it is full. Let the gourd sit in a well-ventilated place for 36 hours, topping it off with water as the Gourd absorbs it. Then pour out the contents of the Gourd and rinse thoroughly in running water, you can use a spoon to clean the walls for best results. Some prefer to do this process twice, the second time letting the Yerba and water sit for 2 hours. Your Balibetov Mate Gourd is ready for use!