Our past two crafts have been instruments, so how about one more? Today, we’re learning how to make a Native American Drum (or an oatmeal container drum…whichever you prefer). Why a Native American drum? Because Thanksgiving is coming of course! It’ll make a great addition to your Thanksgiving play! I remember making these (and loving them) when I was in preschool and H enjoyed it just as much as I did! M was napping during this craft, so she missed out, but I’m sure will enjoy decorating hers later.
How to Make a Native American Drum
Preparation time: 5-10 minutes
Project time: ~45 minutes
Project cost: $ Low
Parental involvement: Low
Inspiration: This Pin on Pinterest
Supplies:
- Empty oatmeal container
- White copy paper
- Tape (I used packing tape and it worked really well)
- Yarn in 3 colors
- Watercolors
- Glue
- “Stuff” to glue on (googly eyes, scraps of paper, pom poms, lace, etc.)
- Scissors
Preparation instructions:
- Cover the oatmeal container with white copy paper using the tape to secure it in place. Mine didn’t go all the way to the bottom of the container and I decided not to worry about it. I figured if it really bothered H, she could glue pom poms down there. She didn’t even notice though!
- If you’re working with a younger child, go ahead and cut the yarn long enough to hang around their neck (about 3′) and braid it.
- Use scissors to poke holes in the sides of the oatmeal container where you’ll be threading the yarn through.
Step by step instructions:
- Give your child the oatmeal container and the watercolors. Let them paint to their heart’s content!
- When they’re bored of painting (or they’ve covered the entire surface) wait about 15 minutes and let the paint dry. Then give them the glue and the “stuff” to glue on. I could have shown H an example and she probably would have followed it, but I decided to let her be creative on her own. The result was a cute little face glued on the opposite side of the painted side. She was pretty proud of herself for that one!
- When glue is dry, use your scissors to poke the ends of the braided yarn through the holes on the sides of the oatmeal container. Tie the ends together inside the container.
- Put the lid on the drum and let your child play to their heart’s content!
If you decide to do this project, be sure to come back and tell me about it! Take pictures and share them on my Facebook sharing post! I’d love to see what you and your little ones are making together!
This post is part of my 31 Days of Easy Crafts for Kids series. Be sure to check out the rest of the crafts I’m doing this month!
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