How to Make a Chinese Gong
The Chinese gong is one of the oldest instruments in the world. It makes a pleasant sound that's fun to listen to. Gongs were traditionally used to herald the arrival of important people. A gong ringer was like the police escort of the ancient past: He would walk in front of a procession and strike the instrument to let everyone know a figure of eminence was approaching. It is possible to make a gong in your own home with little more than a hammer and some time. When you're finished, you'll have your own ancient instrument to send any message you desire.
Things You'll Need
- Brass sheet metal
- Hammer
- Sand
- Canvas or denim
- Drill
- Ribbon
- Hardwood ball
- Metal saw
- Metal buffer
Instructions
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1
Purchase a sheet of brass sheet metal that is sturdy enough to retain its shape when hammered. Cut it into a circular shape with the metal saw. Sand down the edges with a buffer.
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2
Construct a sand pillow on which to beat the gong into shape. Make a bag out of canvas or denim, about 10 inches around. Pack the sand into it tightly. Sew or tie the edges so the sand cannot escape.
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3
Lay the sheet metal on the sand pillow. With the hammer, beat the edges of the brass repeatedly and close together to bend them slightly inward. Repeat until you have a rounded shape.
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4
Once you're finished hammering, the edges will probably be rippled. You can eliminate the ripples by hammering the brass on a hard surface, like a plank of wood.
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5
To smooth out the dimples in the metal, roll the hardwood ball around inside the brass with your hand. Press hard.
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Drill a hole through one end of the gong. Use the ribbon to hang the gong from a gong hanger or the ceiling. Beat the gong with a mallet to hear its sound. You are now the proud owner of one of the original instruments in the world. If you want, make a whole set of gongs and see what different sounds you can produce.
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Tips & Warnings
When hammering the metal, be careful not to smash your fingers with the hammer.
