music play: make your own tin can drum

As the mother of 4 small children, I think there is nothing in the world more relaxing, more peaceful and more calming as the sound of my toddlers…banging…on…drums. Of course you know I am kidding, but all joking aside, children absolutely love to make things that become noise makers, don’t they? Though sometimes in the middle of all the playful clanging, I’d like to transport myself to a quiet tropical island, the truth is, I’m happy the kids are having fun!

And fun is just what the kids will have with this craft: DIY Drums (made from tin cans)!

You Will Need:

Empty tin cans of any size (think: coffee cans, soup cans)
Brown Kraft/Parcel Paper (or any kind of paper will do)
Ribbon or Ric-Rac
Electrical Tape (optionally you can use normal clear tape)
Hot glue gun and Hot glue
Crayons and Markers
Balloons

How To Make the Drum

Step 1
Cut the base of the balloon off and stretch the top bubble part over the opening of the can. Pro Tip: Remove with a “safety can opener” the lids of any cans that don’t have a plastic top. If you remove both ends of the can, your drum sound will be more effective but optionally you can just remove one side.

Step 2
Use electrical tape to affix the balloon to the can where it’s stretched over the top. Optionally you can use regular clear tape.

Step 3
Measure the paper to fit the outside of the can by rolling your can along the paper and using a pencil to mark where you stop and start. Cut out the strip of paper.

Step 4
Begin decorating your paper strip. You can make any type of design or even draw pictures. We decided to make patterns for this project which turned out nicely once they were wrapped around the can. Use crayons and markers to create your designs.

Step 5
Once your artwork is complete, wrap the paper around the outside of your can and hot glue it on. Accessorize and continue to decorate with ribbon or ric rac if you wish.

You are now finished and your drums are ready to become sweet music to your ears! Or, at least the kids will certainly have fun and you will have made some beautiful crafty memories!