DIY Fun: How to Make Amazing Drums for Kids (Easy & Educational!)
Creating music is a fundamental part of childhood development. It stimulates creativity, enhances coordination, and introduces kids to the joy of rhythm and self-expression. What better way to foster this love of music than by building their very own instruments? Making drums for kids is a fantastic DIY project that’s not only fun and engaging but also incredibly educational. This article will guide you through several easy and exciting methods for creating homemade drums using everyday materials. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and musician, and watch your child’s eyes light up with pride as they bang out their own beats!
## Why Make Drums at Home?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s explore the benefits of this activity:
* **Boosts Creativity:** DIY projects encourage children to think outside the box and use their imagination.
* **Enhances Motor Skills:** Constructing and playing the drums helps develop fine and gross motor skills.
* **Teaches Problem-Solving:** Figuring out how to put the drum together and make it sound good involves problem-solving skills.
* **Introduces Music Concepts:** Kids learn about rhythm, sound, and different types of percussion instruments.
* **Provides Sensory Stimulation:** The sounds and textures of the materials used provide sensory input.
* **Offers a Sense of Accomplishment:** Completing a project and creating something tangible fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment.
* **Encourages Family Bonding:** Working together on a DIY project creates valuable bonding time.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Making drums at home is a much cheaper alternative to buying expensive store-bought instruments.
* **Environmentally Friendly:** Reusing and repurposing materials promotes environmental awareness.
## Gathering Your Materials
The beauty of making homemade drums is that you can use a wide variety of readily available materials. Here’s a list of common items you can use, broken down by the drum body and the drumhead:
**Drum Body:**
* **Oatmeal Containers:** A classic choice, oatmeal containers are sturdy and come in various sizes. Make sure the container is empty and clean before starting.
* **Coffee Cans:** Similar to oatmeal containers, coffee cans offer a robust base for a drum. Ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and free of any coffee residue.
* **Plastic Buckets:** Small plastic buckets (like those used for sandcastles) work well for creating larger drums. Clean and dry the bucket thoroughly.
* **Flower Pots (Terra Cotta or Plastic):** Flower pots can create interesting drum shapes. Terra cotta pots will give a more resonant sound.
* **Cardboard Boxes:** Sturdy cardboard boxes can be transformed into larger, bass-like drums. Use strong packing tape to reinforce the box.
* **PVC Pipes:** Cut sections of PVC pipe can serve as the drum body, especially for smaller, higher-pitched drums.
**Drumhead:**
* **Balloons:** Balloons are an easy and inexpensive option for creating a drumhead. Stretch the balloon over the drum opening and secure it.
* **Rubber Gloves:** Similar to balloons, rubber gloves can be stretched and secured to create a drumhead.
* **Parchment Paper:** Parchment paper (baking paper) provides a crisp sound. Secure it tightly with tape or a rubber band.
* **Wax Paper:** Similar to parchment paper, wax paper can be used for a slightly different sound.
* **Fabric:** Pieces of sturdy fabric, like canvas or denim, can be used for a more durable drumhead.
* **Plastic Wrap:** Multiple layers of plastic wrap can create a surprisingly effective drumhead. Secure tightly with tape.
* **Old Inner Tubes:** Pieces cut from old bicycle inner tubes can be stretched and secured to create a durable, low-sounding drumhead.
* **Leather Scraps:** If you have access to leather scraps, they can make excellent, traditional-sounding drumheads.
**Other Essential Supplies:**
* **Scissors:** For cutting materials to size.
* **Tape (Duct Tape, Masking Tape, Packing Tape):** For securing the drumhead to the drum body. Duct tape is generally the most durable.
* **Rubber Bands:** For holding the drumhead in place, especially during the securing process.
* **Glue (Optional):** For added security, especially when using fabric or leather.
* **Markers, Paint, Stickers, Glitter:** For decorating the drum.
* **Rulers or Measuring Tape:** For accurate cutting and sizing.
* **Sandpaper (Optional):** For smoothing rough edges on containers or pots.
* **String or Rope (Optional):** For creating a drum strap or handle.
## Project 1: The Classic Oatmeal Container Drum
This is the simplest and most popular method for making a homemade drum.
**Materials:**
* Empty Oatmeal Container
* Balloon (Large enough to stretch over the opening)
* Scissors
* Tape (Duct tape or Masking tape)
* Markers, Paint, Stickers (for decoration)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Container:** Ensure the oatmeal container is empty and clean. Remove any labels or remaining glue.
2. **Decorate the Container (Optional):** This is where your child’s creativity can shine! Let them decorate the container with markers, paint, stickers, or glitter. You can also wrap it with colorful paper or fabric.
3. **Prepare the Balloon:** Inflate the balloon slightly to stretch it out. Then, deflate it and cut off the neck of the balloon with scissors. This creates a flat, stretchy surface.
4. **Stretch the Balloon Over the Opening:** Carefully stretch the balloon opening over the top of the oatmeal container. Make sure it’s pulled taut and covers the entire opening.
5. **Secure the Balloon:** Use tape to secure the edges of the balloon to the sides of the oatmeal container. Apply the tape evenly around the entire circumference to ensure a tight and secure fit. Duct tape is more durable, but masking tape works well too.
6. **Test the Drum:** Gently tap the center of the balloon drumhead. You should hear a drumming sound. If the sound is muffled, try tightening the balloon by pulling it further down the sides of the container and re-taping.
7. **Add Extra Security (Optional):** For extra security, you can wrap tape around the entire top edge of the container, covering the balloon edge. This will also create a cleaner look.
8. **Make Drumsticks (Optional):** Use pencils, chopsticks, or wooden dowels as drumsticks. You can wrap the ends with felt or yarn to soften the sound.
## Project 2: The Coffee Can Drum
Similar to the oatmeal container drum, the coffee can drum offers a slightly different sound due to the metal body.
**Materials:**
* Empty Coffee Can (with plastic lid)
* Rubber Glove or Balloon (large enough to cover the opening)
* Scissors
* Tape (Duct tape or Masking tape)
* Markers, Paint, Stickers (for decoration)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Can:** Thoroughly clean the coffee can and remove any coffee residue. Ensure the edges are smooth and not sharp. Remove any labels or remaining glue.
2. **Decorate the Can (Optional):** Let your child decorate the can with markers, paint, stickers, or colorful paper.
3. **Prepare the Drumhead:** You can use either a rubber glove or a balloon for this project. If using a rubber glove, cut off the fingers. If using a balloon, follow the instructions from Project 1.
4. **Stretch the Drumhead Over the Opening:** Stretch the rubber glove or balloon over the opening of the coffee can. Ensure it’s pulled taut and covers the entire opening. The plastic lid of the coffee can should not be used as part of this drum.
5. **Secure the Drumhead:** Use tape to secure the edges of the rubber glove or balloon to the sides of the coffee can. Apply the tape evenly around the entire circumference to ensure a tight and secure fit. Duct tape is recommended for this project due to the metal surface.
6. **Test the Drum:** Gently tap the center of the drumhead. You should hear a drumming sound. If the sound is muffled, try tightening the drumhead and re-taping.
7. **Add Extra Security (Optional):** Wrap tape around the entire top edge of the can, covering the drumhead edge for extra security and a cleaner look.
8. **Make Drumsticks (Optional):** Use pencils, chopsticks, or wooden dowels as drumsticks. Wrap the ends with felt or yarn to soften the sound.
## Project 3: The Plastic Bucket Drum
This project creates a larger drum with a deeper sound, perfect for budding drummers who want to make a bigger impact.
**Materials:**
* Small Plastic Bucket
* Parchment Paper or Wax Paper
* Rubber Band (large enough to fit around the bucket opening)
* Tape (Duct tape)
* Markers, Paint, Stickers (for decoration)
* Scissors
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bucket:** Clean the plastic bucket thoroughly and ensure it is dry. Remove any labels or stickers.
2. **Decorate the Bucket (Optional):** Let your child decorate the bucket with markers, paint, stickers, or colorful tape.
3. **Cut the Parchment or Wax Paper:** Cut a piece of parchment paper or wax paper that is slightly larger than the opening of the bucket, giving you enough to fold over the edges.
4. **Place the Paper Over the Opening:** Center the parchment paper or wax paper over the opening of the bucket. Fold the edges of the paper down around the sides of the bucket.
5. **Secure with a Rubber Band:** Place a large rubber band around the outside of the bucket, securing the paper in place. Make sure the rubber band is tight enough to hold the paper taut.
6. **Reinforce with Tape:** Use duct tape to further secure the paper to the bucket. Wrap the tape around the edge of the bucket, covering the rubber band and the folded edges of the paper. This will create a more durable and secure drumhead.
7. **Test the Drum:** Gently tap the center of the parchment paper or wax paper drumhead. You should hear a crisp drumming sound. If the sound is muffled, try tightening the paper by adjusting the rubber band and re-taping.
8. **Make Drumsticks (Optional):** Use wooden spoons or dowels as drumsticks. You can wrap the ends with felt or yarn to soften the sound.
9. **Add a Shoulder Strap (Optional):** For added fun, attach a sturdy rope to both sides of the bucket to create a shoulder strap. This allows your child to carry the drum around and play it while walking.
## Project 4: The Cardboard Box Bass Drum
This project uses a cardboard box to create a larger, bass-like drum. It’s perfect for creating a full drum set experience.
**Materials:**
* Sturdy Cardboard Box (size depends on desired drum size)
* Fabric (Canvas, Denim, or other sturdy material)
* Scissors
* Packing Tape
* Glue (Optional)
* Markers, Paint, Stickers (for decoration)
* Ruler or Measuring Tape
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Box:** Choose a sturdy cardboard box. Reinforce the seams of the box with packing tape to make it more durable. If the box has flaps, either tape them down securely or cut them off entirely.
2. **Decorate the Box (Optional):** Let your child decorate the box with markers, paint, stickers, or colorful paper.
3. **Cut the Fabric:** Measure the top of the cardboard box. Cut a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than the opening of the box, giving you enough to fold over the edges (about 2-3 inches extra on each side).
4. **Place the Fabric Over the Opening:** Center the fabric over the opening of the box. Fold the edges of the fabric down around the sides of the box.
5. **Secure with Packing Tape:** Use packing tape to securely attach the fabric to the box. Pull the fabric taut as you tape it down, ensuring a tight drumhead. Apply the tape evenly around the entire circumference of the box.
6. **Add Glue (Optional):** For extra security, you can apply glue to the edges of the box before taping the fabric down. This will create a stronger bond.
7. **Test the Drum:** Gently tap the center of the fabric drumhead. You should hear a deep, bass-like sound. If the sound is muffled, try tightening the fabric by pulling it further down the sides of the box and re-taping.
8. **Make a Beater (Optional):** Use a soft mallet or wrap the end of a wooden dowel with felt to create a beater for the bass drum.
9. **Add Legs (Optional):** To prevent the drum from rolling around, add small wooden blocks or sturdy cardboard rolls to the bottom corners of the box to serve as legs. Secure them with strong tape or glue.
## Project 5: The PVC Pipe Drum Set
This project is a bit more advanced and involves cutting PVC pipes, but it can create a unique and customizable drum set.
**Materials:**
* PVC Pipes (various diameters for different drum sounds)
* PVC Pipe Cutter or Saw
* Rubber Gloves or Balloons (for drumheads)
* PVC Cement (for connecting pipes, adult supervision required)
* Tape (Duct tape)
* Markers, Paint, Stickers (for decoration)
* Sandpaper (to smooth rough edges)
**Instructions:**
1. **Plan Your Drum Set:** Decide on the size and number of drums you want to create. Different lengths and diameters of PVC pipe will produce different sounds. Shorter, narrower pipes will create higher-pitched sounds, while longer, wider pipes will create lower-pitched sounds.
2. **Cut the PVC Pipes:** Use a PVC pipe cutter or saw to cut the pipes to the desired lengths. Ensure the cuts are clean and straight. Adult supervision is required for this step.
3. **Smooth the Edges:** Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges on the cut pipes. This will prevent injuries and ensure a better seal for the drumheads.
4. **Assemble the Frame (Optional):** You can create a frame to hold the drums together using additional PVC pipes and PVC cement. This will require careful planning and precise measurements. Adult supervision is required for using PVC cement.
5. **Prepare the Drumheads:** Use rubber gloves or balloons as drumheads. Cut the fingers off the gloves or the neck off the balloons, as described in previous projects.
6. **Stretch the Drumheads Over the Openings:** Stretch the rubber gloves or balloons over the openings of the PVC pipes. Ensure they are pulled taut and cover the entire opening.
7. **Secure the Drumheads:** Use tape to secure the edges of the rubber gloves or balloons to the sides of the PVC pipes. Apply the tape evenly around the entire circumference to ensure a tight and secure fit. Duct tape is recommended for this project.
8. **Decorate the Drums (Optional):** Let your child decorate the drums with markers, paint, stickers, or colorful tape.
9. **Test the Drum Set:** Tap the drumheads of each drum to test the sound. Adjust the tension of the drumheads or the position of the drums to achieve the desired sound.
10. **Create Drumsticks (Optional):** Use dowels as drumsticks. Wrap the ends with felt or yarn to soften the sound.
## Tips for Success
* **Supervise Children:** Always supervise children when using scissors, tape, or other potentially dangerous tools.
* **Get Creative with Decorations:** Encourage children to express their creativity by decorating the drums with a variety of materials.
* **Experiment with Different Materials:** Don’t be afraid to try different materials for the drum body and drumhead to achieve different sounds.
* **Adjust the Tension:** The tension of the drumhead affects the sound of the drum. Experiment with different levels of tension to find the best sound.
* **Make Drumsticks:** Experiment with different types of drumsticks to create different sounds. Try wooden spoons, chopsticks, dowels, or even pencils.
* **Create a Drum Set:** Combine multiple drums of different sizes and sounds to create a complete drum set.
* **Have Fun!** The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of creating and playing your homemade drums.
## Beyond the Basics: Adding Extra Features
* **Drum Dampening:** To control the sustain and resonance of the drums, try adding small pieces of felt or foam to the drumheads. This will dampen the vibrations and create a shorter, more controlled sound.
* **Adjustable Tension:** For more advanced projects, consider designing a system to adjust the tension of the drumheads. This could involve using adjustable straps or clamps to tighten or loosen the drumhead.
* **Integrated Sound Effects:** Incorporate small bells, rattles, or shakers into the drum design to create additional sound effects.
* **Electronic Integration:** For tech-savvy kids, explore the possibility of integrating simple electronic components, such as piezo sensors and microcontrollers, to create electronic drums.
## The Educational Benefits of Drum Making
Beyond the fun and creativity, making drums offers significant educational benefits:
* **Science:** Exploring sound waves, vibration, and resonance. Understanding how different materials and sizes affect the sound produced.
* **Technology:** Using tools and materials to construct the drums. Learning about the mechanics of sound production.
* **Engineering:** Designing and building the drums. Problem-solving and troubleshooting challenges during the construction process.
* **Art:** Decorating the drums and expressing creativity through visual design.
* **Math:** Measuring, cutting, and calculating dimensions. Understanding ratios and proportions.
* **Music:** Learning about rhythm, tempo, and dynamics. Exploring different types of percussion instruments.
## Conclusion
Making drums for kids is a rewarding and educational DIY project that offers a multitude of benefits. It fosters creativity, enhances motor skills, introduces music concepts, and provides a sense of accomplishment. By using readily available materials and following these simple instructions, you can create unique and personalized drums that your children will cherish for years to come. So gather your supplies, unleash your inner artist, and get ready to make some music! Remember to supervise children during the construction process and encourage them to express their creativity. Happy drumming!