How to: A Homemade Drum Stick

Every drummer needs a good pair of sticks.

Drums are everywhere. Anything can become a drum if struck with something else for the purpose of producing rhythm. Hands, mallets, brushes -- anything can be used to make sounds on a drum. The most common, besides hands, are drumsticks. Professional drumsticks can be pricey, especially if the drums are played with enough force to damage the sticks. However, you can make your own.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2-inch dowel
• Handsaw
• Sandpaper
• Pencil
• Pocket knife
• Paintbrush
• Varnish

Instructions

1. Saw the dowel into a 17-inch-long section. Sand both ends until they are slightly rounded.

2. Draw a line around the stick, approximately 1/2-inch from one end. Carve this end into an oval shape.

3. Carve inward beneath the tip to a width of 1/4-inch. Slowly taper outward from the tip until it merges with the natural width of the stick.

4. Roll the stick on a countertop to check for straightness. If it is not straight, continue carving the taper until it rolls straight.

5. Sand the stick until it is smooth. Varnish it and allow it to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Sticks, mallets, brushes and multirod bundles are collectively known as "beaters." Hands fall into this category, as well, when being used on drums.

• Always use caution when sawing or working with knives. Take special note of where your hands and fingers are at all times. When working with varnish, make certain your work area is well-ventilated and that the varnished item is allowed to completely dry.

References

• "Tipbook: Drums"; Hugo Pinksterboer; 2001
• "Should I Play The Drums?"; Tom Crask; 2007