How to Make Your Own

Water Drum

The water drum is used by Native American tribes across North and South America. Traditionally, water drums are made using a large iron or clay pot and buckskin, a process which can take many hours, even days. To make your water drum, you will only need the following inexpensive materials:

- An empty can

- An old innertube

- A large rubber band

- A pair of scissors

Step 1: Find a metal can (like the one at left) and remove the lid (food cans work well). A larger can will produce a more booming sound; a small can will give a softer thump.

Step 2: Fill the can 1/4 to 1/2 with water. The amount of water you add will determine the pitch of your drum.

Step 3: Cut a rectangular section of innertube that will stretch across the opening of your can.

Step 4: Stretch the innertube over your can (pictured at right), as tightly as possible - have a friend help you with this! Secure it with the rubber band. If the rubber band is not strong enough, cut a thin strip off of your innertube and tie it around the drum head.

Your water drum is now ready to play! If you don't have a drumstick handy, you can use any hard, smooth, slightly rounded stick.

Learn about different drums.


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This document was last modified on Friday, May 17, 2002 at 15:16:10