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Drum

From "DIY Kids"
episode DIK-213

The DIY Kids demonstrate how to make a homemade drum.

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

Materials:

Metal can
Hammer
2 unsharpened pencils
Pen
Paint
Cording
Hot glue
Chamois cloth
Scissors
Brushes
Large nail
Hole punch
Compass
Ruler

Cut off the top and bottom of a metal can -- be careful of sharp edges.
Decorate can with paints.
Using a hammer and a nail, punch holes in the side of the can -- about 1/2" from the bottom edge (figure A) and spaced about 1" apart.
Cut a circle out of the chamois cloth (pronounced "shammy") that is about 2" larger in diameter than the metal can (figure B).
Punch holes in the chamois 1/2" from the edge, spacing about 1-1/2" apart.
Hot-glue the chamois to the top edge of the can (figure C). Start gluing at any point. Next glue the point directly across from your starting point, pulling taut. Continue gluing like a clock face: 6-12, 3-9, 4-10, etc. Pull the chamois as you go so it's tight and has no wrinkles. Glue the circle all the way around.
Tie off one end of the cord to a hole in the can and begin to thread, alternating between the can and the chamois in a zigzag pattern (figure D). The cord should be snug but not tight. The cording is mainly for looks -- if you pull too tight, the chamois may rip. Tie off the end of the cord.
Use the eraser end of unsharpened pencils as drumsticks.

Tips:

A chamois cloth is used for drying a car so it won't spot. Look for chamois cloths wherever you would purchase car-wash supplies.
When punching holes in a can, it may be helpful to place a block of wood inside the can to give you something to hammer against so you don't bend the can. Also, it may help if someone holds it steady as you hammer. (Or, if you wan tto wait a couple of hours, fill the can with water and freeze it. Punch the holes while the water is still frozen, then let it melt before you proceed with the project.)

All products can be purchased at craft, hardware and all-purpose stores nationwide. No special products are needed.

RESOURCES :
Musical Instruments
Model: 0531158713
Author: Meryl Doney
(1997)