How to Install Music Movements

Installing a music movement into your own box makes a unique decoration.

Making your own music box can be a fun project that results in a beautiful decoration or gift. Using a decorative box with sentimental value or one that fits your decor makes the music box unique. You can use almost any type of box, though boxes made of wood will allow the sound to resonate and be clearer. Purchasing a music movement will provide the sound for your music box, and you can choose from a wide variety of tunes to fit your design.

Things You'll Need

• Wooden decorative box
• Drill
• wood glue (optional)

Instructions

1. Locate the best spot for your music movement and ensure that there will be space below for the key, also referred to as the crank or T-bar. The movement works best when mounted flat. Mark the location of the center of the key with a pencil for drilling.

2. Remove the key from the movement and measure the thickness of the shaft.

3. Drill a hole slightly larger than the shaft and put the music movement in place so that the shaft or key is centered in the hole.

4. Secure the music movement in place with the provided screws or with glue, depending on the design.

5. Stick the key through the hole or into the shaft and crank to test the sound.

Tips & Warnings

• You may wish to cover the music movement with a small piece of wood or other material if you plan to place items in the box. This protects the movement from damage.

References

• Better Music Boxes: Sankyo Music Box Movement Instructions

Resources

• National Art Craft: Music Movements
• Music Box Attic: Musical Movements