How to Pick a Tube for Rain Sticks

Paper towel tubes often are used to create rain sticks. However, there are a few other options. When picking a tube, consider its size and width and the age of the child who will play with it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Choose your tube based on the sound filler. If you're using toothpicks or pins, use a smaller tube, like a paper towel or toilet paper tube. Larger, sturdier tubes, like mailing tubes or potato chip tubes, work well with larger fillers, such as nails.

2. Check how much sound filler you have on hand before picking a tube. Larger, wider tubes need more filler, and smaller, thinner tubes need less.

3. Consider the size of the kids playing with the rain stick. A toddler needs a smaller rain stick made from a toilet paper roll or paper towel tube. Older kids can have more fun with a sturdier tube, like a mailing tube or potato chip container.

4. Create custom rain stick tubes by combining two paper towel or toilet paper tubes. Fold and twist the bottom of one tube, and fit it into the other tube. This creates a longer rain stick and gives you more area for filler.

Tips & Warnings

• Potato chip tubes and mailing tubes have removable tops so you don't need to make ends for them.