How to Make Indian Shaker Drums for Kids
The Indian shaker, or Native American rattle, is used in ceremonial rituals. The materials used to make a traditional shaker are taken from the three kingdoms---animal, mineral and plant. They are often made out of gourds, turtle shells, rocks, seeds, feathers, antlers, bones or leather. Shakers can be made from a variety of easy-to-find materials and can be completed in a short amount of time. Kids will enjoy decorating and playing with the shaker.
Things You'll Need
- Dried gourd
- Drill
- ¼ inch drill bit
- Wire hanger
- 1/8 inch drill bit
- Wood dowel
- Sandpaper
- Paper
- Pebbles, seeds or popcorn kernels
- Glue
- Paint
- Leather straps
- Feather
Instructions
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1
Drill a hole in the bottom of a dried gourd with a drill and a ¼ inch drill bit. Use a wire hanger to remove the membrane and seeds. Drill a hole in the top of the gourd with a 1/8 inch drill bit.
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2
Sand a wood dowel with sandpaper. Sand one end of the dowel slightly tapered. Place the tapered end of the dowel through the larger hole on the bottom of the gourd and push it through the smaller hole on the top of the gourd to check the fit.
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3
Pull the stick out of the gourd. Roll a piece of paper to form a funnel. Pour pebbles, seeds or popcorn kernels into the gourd. Shake the gourd to check the sound. Add more pebbles, seeds or kernels until you are pleased with the sound.
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4
Remove the funnel and push the dowel through the bottom hole and into the top hole. Secure the dowel by placing glue around the dowel where it enters and exits the gourd. Allow the glue to dry.
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5
Use paint, leather straps and/or feathers to decorate the shaker. Paint the gourd with bright colors and patterns. Wrap a leather strap around the length of the handle. Glue a feather to the top of the handle or secure it with the leather strap. Your Indian shaker is now ready for use.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit gourd image by Darko Draskovic from Fotolia.com
