How to Make Chimes With Keys and Coat Hangers

Kids love playing music. With a coat hanger and some old keys, you can make sweet sounding chimes for your child to play and enjoy. This is a great project to introduce your child to the importance of recycling. Let your children hunt for the old keys and hangers.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Coat hanger
• Old keys
• Ruler
• String or fishing line
• Scissors

1. Count how many keys you are planning on using in this project. The more, the better. Use the ruler to measure out 6 to 8 inches of string or fishing line for each key you are using.
2. Decide how you want your keys laid out on the chime. Keep the biggest keys towards the middle of the coat hanger and smaller ones on the outside. This layout produces the best sound.
3. Tie one end of the string or fishing line to one of the keys and the other end to the coat hanger. Hang the keys at about the same length so they hit each other and make a sound. Tie them closely together. Continue until you have hung all of the keys onto the hanger.
4. Shake the coat hanger slightly, or wave your hand through the keys to hear them chime. Enjoy your new musical instrument with your kids, and hang these outside on a windy day to fully enjoy your creation.