How can a musically challenged but crafty mother inspire her kids to make music? By making homemade instruments together! At least that’s what we do.
I don’t come from a musical family and my own stress filled piano lessons as a kid did more to discourage than encourage me to play music. Despite that, we are big music appreciators and I hope that my kids at least develop a love for listening to music, maybe someday they will even be inspired to play it themselves!
Today’s project shows your kids that you don’t need fancy instruments or years of training to have fun with music, in fact you can make music out of anything, case in point: a few lids, beads and balloons…..
Please note: This post was originally created for PBS Parents Crafts for Kids and the instructions are no longer available on their website. I’m including directions here now .
Rattle Drum Materials
- 2 Mason Jar Lids
- Balloons
- Small Beads
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- String- cut to 10”
- Skewer
- Pencil
- Scissors
- Tape
- Hot Glue (Adults only)
Rattle Drum Instructions
Time needed: 20 minutes.
Learn how to make a simple DIY toy and instrument: the classic rattle drum.
- Cut cardboard
Trace the outer edge of one lid on a piece of cardboard. Cut out cardboard circle.
- Add balloons
Cut the ends off two balloons. Pull one balloon over each canning lid.
- Add beads to string
Tie a knot on one end of your string. Thread about four beads onto the string and knot the other end to form a 9” long string with two beads on either side.
- Assemble first half of drum
Hot glue one balloon covered lid to the cardboard circle.
- Add string
Turn drum over and duct tape string to center with beads hanging off each side.
- Add second drum half
Hot glue the other balloon covered lid to the open side of the cardboard, covering the string.
- Add skewer
Insert the skewer into cardboard at the bottom of the drum. Hot glue in place.
Now make some noise! To play your rattle drum, place the skewer between your palms and rub them back and forth to rotate the drum. The beads will hit the balloons and make a drum sound.
Yep. give these to my kids and they’ll gonna get loud. Really load.
LOL!
Great
I love this simple idea. A beautiful drum kit from a beautiful mess. I have just made guitar tissue boxes and rubber bands. My kiddos love music as much as they enjoy making things.
Love hearing that!
This is very amazing DIY idea of making instruments at home. Love this great drums making ideas. Thank you for sharing it.