Arts >> Music >> Live Music

How to Make a Homemade African Drum

There are several different types of traditional African drums. The djembe drum is a very popular drum. These drums are usually made with a wood body, with goat covered skin on top. They are played with bare hands, not drum sticks. Djembe drums can be very expensive, but you and your child can make one at home very easily. Not only is this a great activity to introduce your child to African culture, but it will provide hours of fun for the whole family.

Things You'll Need

  • Terracotta plant pot
  • Acrylic Paint
  • Paint brush
  • Punching balloon
  • Scissors
  • Pencil
  • Newspapers
  • Yarn
  • Large rubber band
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Cover your work area with newspapers. Draw your desired design on the terracotta plant pot.

    • 2

      Paint your design on the pot. Allow the paint to dry. If you used one coat of paint, it will take 15 minutes. For each coat of paint, add an additional 15 minutes.

    • 3

      Place the pot on the ground with the smaller and enclosed end at the bottom. Cut the balloon by sticking your scissors in the opening and slitting the balloon. Place the balloon over the top end of the pot and stretch it. Pull it tight. You may need assistance to hold one end while you pull it.

    • 4

      Pull the rubber band over the balloon covered top of the part, and leave the rubber band about an inch front the top of the lid. This should be right underneath the top part of the terracotta pot that is a little wider than the rest of the body. Wrap the rubber band tight if need be. Cut off the extra balloon so that it is even around the drum.

    • 5

      Cover the rubber band with decorative yarn and secure it. Play and enjoy your homemade African drum.

Live Music

Related Categories