Home >> Toys >> Childrens Toys

How to Make Children's Bongo Drums

Bongo drums were brought to Cuba with the slave trade and are usually associated with Cuban music, such as salsa; although; today bands and orchestras frequently use them. Make them out of wood or metal, with tops constructed from animal skins or synthetic materials. A toy set of bongos for children is perfect for teaching rhythm. Make toy bongos out of materials you have around the house.

Things You'll Need

Large coffee can and small coffee can, with plastic lids
Block of wood (about 4 inches long and 1-inch thick)
Two bolts and nuts
Two washers
Drill
Snub-nose pliers
Can opener
Construction paper
Crayons
Scotch tape
Optional:
Piece of leather at least 2 inches bigger than each can
Leather hole punch
Pair of boot shoe strings
Dinner plate

Instructions

Prepare the Cans
- 1
  Drill two holes about 2 inches apart halfway up the side of each coffee can.
- 2
  Open the bottom of each can and crimp the edges with the snub-nose pliers to get rid of sharp edges. If you have to use regular pliers, be sure that all surfaces are flat and smooth.
- 3
  Leave the plastic lids on the top of the cans. They will form the tops of the drums.
- 4
  Help your child decorate the drums by wrapping pieces of construction paper around each can. Tape the cans together at the bolt holes.
- 5
  Cut a small four-way slit through the tape and construction paper where the bolts are to be inserted.
Put the Two Cans Together
- 6
  Drill two holes through the block of wood, lining these holes up with the holes in the cans.
- 7
  With the block of wood in the middle of the two cans, put the bolts through each hole from the inside of one can, through the block, to the inside of the other can.
- 8
  Secure the bolts with washers and nuts.

Childrens Toys