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How to Make a Drum at Home

Drums are one of mankind's first instruments, and come in many forms. Tribal drums are often made of bamboo and goat hide, or hollowed-out wood. Homemade drums are made using any kind of hollow container, such as cans, wide pipes or tubing, plastic containers or metal buckets. Kids love to turn pots and pans into a make-shift drum set--but they're sure to love playing on homemade drums even more. And there's a pus side for parents: Homemade drums are rarely as loud as the bottom of a pot.

Things You'll Need

Coffee can, 6-inch diameter
Radiator hose clamp, 6-inch diameter
Goat skin
Utility knife
Paint
Paintbrush
Bowl
Water

Instructions

- 1
  Paint the exterior of the coffee can in any way desired. A popular decoration for drums is red and white vertical stripes, about 2 inches thick. Leave to dry.
- 2
  Cut the skin with the utility knife to create a 9-inch circle. Soak the goat skin for no more than one hour in the bowl with water, or until it becomes pliable, not soggy. Don't use hot water for soaking.
- 3
  Place the wet skin on the open end of the coffee can, centered.
- 4
  Fit the radiator hose clamp over the top of the skin and the can, just below the rim of the can.
- 5
  Tighten the clamp slowly, pulling out any creases in the skin as you go. Tighten all the way once the skin is taught and smooth.
- 6
  Trim off the excess skin carefully with the knife, leaving a 3/4-inch flap below the clamp.

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