How to Make a Drum: A Comprehensive Guide
Drums are among the oldest and most universal musical instruments, used in various cultures and musical traditions around the world. Crafting a drum can be a deeply satisfying and educational project, providing insight into both the instrument itself and the cultural contexts in which it is used. This guide will walk you through the process of making a simple yet effective hand drum using materials that are readily available. While there are many types of drums, this guide focuses on making a basic frame drum, which is one of the simplest and most versatile types.
Materials Needed
- Drum Shell or Frame: This can be a wooden hoop, a cylindrical container, or a frame made from flexible wood. Common choices include embroidery hoops or specially purchased drum frames.
- Drum Skin: Traditionally, animal hides like goat or cow are used, but synthetic alternatives such as Mylar can also be effective.
- Rope or Cord: To secure the drum skin to the frame.
- Glue: For attaching parts, if necessary.
- Drum Beater: Optional, but you can create one using a stick and a padded head.
- Scissors, Knife, or Utility Blade: For cutting the drum skin and rope.
- Water: For soaking animal hides.
- Sandpaper: For smoothing the frame edges.
- Decorative Materials: Paints, stains, or other materials to decorate your drum.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Frame
- Select the Frame: Choose a wooden hoop or cylindrical container that will serve as the drum shell. Ensure it is sturdy and free from cracks.
- Smooth the Edges: Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges on the frame. This will prevent the drum skin from tearing and make handling the drum more comfortable.
2. Preparing the Drum Skin
- Choose the Material: If you are using an animal hide, soak it in water for several hours to make it pliable. Synthetic materials generally do not require this step.
- Cut the Skin: Lay the drum skin flat and cut it into a circle. The diameter should be about 2-3 inches larger than the frame diameter to allow for stretching and securing.
3. Attaching the Drum Skin
- Position the Skin: Place the drum skin over the frame, ensuring it is centered.
- Secure with Rope: Cut several lengths of rope or cord. Tie one end of each piece to the frame and then lace the rope over the drum skin, pulling it tight and tying the other end to the opposite side of the frame. This creates tension and secures the drum skin in place.
- Tighten the Skin: Continue tightening and securing the skin until it is taut. This step is crucial for producing a good sound. You may need to adjust the tension several times.
4. Final Adjustments
- Trim Excess Skin: Once the drum skin is secured and taut, trim any excess material using scissors or a knife.
- Drying: If you used an animal hide, allow the drum to dry completely. This may take a few days. The skin will shrink slightly, further tightening and improving the sound quality.
5. Decoration (Optional)
- Personalize Your Drum: Use paints, stains, or other decorative materials to personalize your drum. This can include cultural symbols, personal designs, or patterns that enhance the drum’s aesthetic appeal.
6. Making a Drum Beater (Optional)
- Choose a Stick: Find a stick or dowel about 12-18 inches long.
- Create a Padded Head: Wrap one end of the stick with padding materials such as cloth or foam, securing it with string or tape. This will serve as the head of the drum beater.
Tips and Considerations
- Materials: The type of materials you use will significantly affect the sound and durability of the drum. Traditional animal hides offer a rich, authentic sound, while synthetic materials are more consistent and easier to maintain.
- Cultural Context: Understanding the cultural background of the drum you are making can enrich the experience and ensure respectful use and representation.
- Safety: Use caution when cutting materials and handling tools. Ensure that the workspace is well-ventilated and free from hazards.
Conclusion
Making your own drum can be a rewarding project that connects you to musical traditions and craftsmanship. Whether you use it for personal enjoyment, in a musical ensemble, or as a cultural artifact, the drum you create will be unique and imbued with the effort and creativity you put into it. With this guide, you have the basic knowledge to start your drum-making journey and explore the rich world of percussion instruments.