In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through crafting a bamboo thunder drum. Don't fret if bamboo isn’t available; I’ll detail how to fashion this percussive instrument using alternative materials like wood, plastic, or a simple cardboard tube. The method remains adaptable, ensuring you can create this unique drum regardless of your resource availability.
The versatility extends to the materials used for the drum head, offering insights on creating it with high-power tape for resonance and durability. Stay tuned for step-by-step instructions and tips, enabling you to unleash the thunderous sounds of your own handmade drum, uniquely tailored to your preferences.
Materials
- High power tape
- Metal spring
- Handsaw
- Craft knife
- Scissors
- Bamboo tube
Method
The first thing you’ll want to do is take a handsaw and trim the ends of your bamboo to make it the desired size, clean up the edges and remove the node ridge. Once the ends have been cut, you will now want to take a piece of sandpaper and sand all around the bamboo to remove any sharp edges and to make it smooth.
Fold the sandpaper and rotate the bamboo tube to clean up the inside of it. This will prevent splintering and make it more safe to use. To make a DIY drum head; place strips of the strong hold tape over one end of the bamboo cane and keep repeating this process until it is covered. You will need to ensure that the tape extends over by at least 4cms.
After you’ve done that you can take a sharp knife and score around the edge of the tape, then you will be able to peel the tape off to give a straight edge. Place a pin through the centre of the drum head to make a small hole then place the metal spring end into the hole and twist until you have secured a few threads. The drum is now ready to play and will produce a thunder sound. If you want you can use different coloured springs to make the instrument unique.
Up next: 7 DIY Popsicle Stick Crafts
