How to make a bamboo thunder drum (Tutorial)

 

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 

Getting started

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 or if you dont fancy making it you can purchase a thunder drum below.

 

Where to buy the Kanji Thunder Drum?

bamboo thunder drum with metal spring

There are many things we love about the Kanji Thunder Drum, it's natural, it's eco-friendly, and hand crafted. This instrument accurately produces a high quality lightning storm sound effect, perfect for creating cinematic or musical masterpieces.

Explore our range of thunder drum instruments.

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published

Featured products

handcrafted antares panpipes from Peru
Antares Bamboo Panpipes
Sale price$44.00
Only 2 units left
quena andean flute with colourful case
Quena Andean Flute
Sale price$90.00
Sold out
The natural coconut shell 7 note thumb piano kalimba with carved gecko design held in the hand to show scale size.
Kuta Thumb Piano Kalimba 7 note - Natural
Sale price$55.00
Only 1 unit left

Blog posts

View all
A black-and-white image of a classic American diner

Lana Del Rey’s ‘A&W’: The Meaning Behind the Lyrics

MusicRyan Bomzer
Lana Del Rey's "A&W" isn't just a song—it's a seven-minute emotional exorcism. With its abrupt shift halfway through, it feels like two tracks ...
A confident woman standing tall, gazing towards the sea, embodying strength and self-assurance.

Tate McRae’s Greedy - Lyrics and Meaning

MusicRyan Bomzer
This song has an uplifting sound and has caught the attention of many people. Within the lyrics, there is a strong message of being independent and...
Popular Musical Instrument Apps For Android

Popular Musical Instrument Apps For Android

MusicRyan Bomzer
Apps are a great choice for all types of musicians, whether you are a beginner or have experience with instruments. They allow you to have a fully ...