Mar 4, 2009
What types of Hides are used for Drum Making?
This is a story of finding a drum, or having a drum find you.
Many choose their hide based on its totem properties. Each tribe, nation, or culture has attributes assigned to each animal.
Buffalo is thicker than elk, and it has a deeper resonance. It vibrates at a rich tone. Buffalo has been commonly used in sweat lodge ceremonies, but must be appropriately stretched for this use. Known as a symbol of abundance, the buffalo was a powerful source of food in earlier times. The White Buffalo is a symbol of Great Spirit.
Horse represents strength and endurance. It is commonly used for drums. These hides offer a deep tone unless stretched too tight.
Elk is majestic, a symbol of the warrior and power. Power can be interpreted as protection but can also symbolize inner power. Elk drums need greater care.
Moose may seem like they should be a thicker hide, but are not. This type of hide is difficult to find in the continental US. Some associate the moose with self esteem and feminine qualities.
Deer is very temperamental and shy, but graceful. This hide, as used in drums, is difficult to use due to the smaller size of the hide. They are thinner, and affected by the weather.
Basic Drum Care:
Do not leave your drum in your car! If your drum gets too hot or dry the hide can split. Treat your drum like an honored member of your family, never leave it in conditions that are too hot or too cold. Care for your drum and it will serve you for many years.
Also warm up your drum before using it, much like you would stretch before running. Greet your drum, thank it, and appreciate it. Hold your drum, share your body warmth through your hands. If the air is too hot or the air too dry, you can give your drum a gentle mist of water. Do not hang your drum over a heater. It is better to choose an inside wall, and never hang your drum with the hide facing the wall or the floor. The respect you show your drum will resonate in its tone.
