How to Make Your Own Big Drum

Taiko style drums can be made to many size specifications.

Taiko drums are a popular type of big drum that can be made at home. The word "taiko" refers to an ancient Japanese style of drumming, as well as to the drums themselves. In a recital, the group of performers who are drumming can be called a taiko as well. The drum shell can be made from worked slats of soft wood or, as is described in this project, crafted from a large whiskey or wine barrel.

Things You'll Need

• Wooden barrel
• Tape measure
• Pen or pencil
• Circular saw
• Belt sander
• Level
• Animal skin
• 8 feet of strong cord
• Wood working punch

Instructions

1. Acquire a wooden barrel from a local vendor. Most distilleries and wineries throw away used wooden barrels after they're used. Call and inquire if there are any barrels available. Most sizes of barrels will work but many craftsmen find a larger barrel easiest to work with.

2. Measure the height and width of the barrel and cut the top of the barrel so that the diameter of the drum head will be proportionate to the length of the drum side. For instance, an average Taiko is either 22 inches or 24 inches high and 18 inches or 20 inches in diameter, respectively. In most cases, the diameter is 80 percent of the height of the drum. Cut the top and bottom of the barrel off, using the measurements taken. The barrel should be cleanly cut on both ends, forming the drum chamber.

3. Find the exact center of the barrel sides and measure out from the center towards the top by 12 inches, assuming the diameter is 20 inches. Doing the same thing to the other half of the barrel, this will give you the center 24 inches needed for the shell of the drum. Mark around the drum at these points with a pencil or pen and use the circular saw to cut away the top and bottom. Use a level to make these cuts, as this will help you to maintain the angles needed.

4. Sand any high points from the rim and then use the sander to round off the edges. This will keep the drum head from tearing when it comes time to stretch it onto the shell. Once the top is finished, repeat the process for the bottom. Check to see if the top end wobbles when turned over to sit on the floor; if it does, sand it until the wobbling stops. There should be little to no wobbling on both ends.

5. Soak the animal skin in water for at least 24 hours. Poke ten sets of two holes around the edge of the animal skin after it is removed from the water

6. Stretch the skin onto each end of the shell and string the two heads together by running the cord up and down along the body of the drum and through the sets of holes. Tie strong knots along the body where needed. Do not stretch it too tightly, as the skin will tighten as it dries. Make sure the skin stays centered and everything remains tight. Let rest for at least 48 hours and try the drum. It may take the drum up to two weeks to dry completely and develop its final tone.

References

• Interview with John E. Lauer, BA in Fine Arts from Indiana Purdue University -- Fort Wayne
• Bowdoin College: History of Taiko