How to Make an Instrument out of Bamboo

Fashion a fun flute from a bamboo stalk.

For the adventurous musician, building instruments out of naturally occurring materials like bamboo is both educational and gratifying. The long, slender shape of bamboo stalks makes them an ideal material for a simple flute. For best results, your bamboo stalk should be at least 20 inches long and have a diameter of one inch. With attention to detail and a steady hand, you'll make an all-natural instrument that will impress friends and fellow musicians.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Hacksaw
• 1/2-inch steel rod
• Oven mitt
• 1/4-inch drill bit
• Pliers
• Fine grit sandpaper
• Rag
• Medium-sized paintbrush
• Linseed oil

Instructions

1. Draw a cut mark an inch behind one of the bamboo stalk's seams. The seams divide the long segments of the stalk and are made up of dense fibrous material. Make the second mark in the middle of one of the segments. Ideally, your cut marks should be 16 to 18 inches apart.

2. Cut the bamboo at the marks using a hacksaw. For best results, use long, steady passes as you cut. Wield your blade with caution as the stalk may be difficult to cut through.

3. Put on an oven mitt and hold the end of your 1/2-inch steel rod over a source of heat, such as an oven burner or a campfire. Insert the rod into the fibrous end of the bamboo stalk, pushing it all the way through to the other end. This hollows out the inside of the bamboo to allow airflow.

4. Make a circular mark one inch from the fibrous end of the stalk. Measure six inches from this mark, then make six more circular marks at one-inch intervals.

5. Grasp your 1/4-inch drill bit with a pair of pliers and hold the tip over a heat source for 30 seconds to a minute. Push the bit through each circular mark in the top of the flute, ensuring a clean puncture hole. No drill is required, as the heated bit will readily pierce the stalk.

6. Smooth both ends, as well as any other rough patches, of the stalk with a pad of fine grit sandpaper. Wipe away any sanding dust with a damp rag.

7. Brush on a light coat of linseed oil to protect the bamboo. This will also add a rich patina to the flute for a classy look. Allow the oil to dry overnight before use.

Tips & Warnings

• Ensure that your circular marks are well aligned prior to burning through the bamboo.

• Use caution when working over your heat source. Never grab the steel rod or drill bit without using oven mitts. Allow ample time for the materials to cool after use.

References

• Kool Bamboo.com: Making a Bamboo Flute
• Backwoods Home Magazine: Here's How to Make a Musical Bamboo Flute