Stránka:roll 1931.djvu/253

Handicrafts 237 iMag Indian Drums tLe (a) By Bernarp S. MAson Indian drums are of two general types: Those longer than they are wide, of which the Southwest Indian drum, made over a hollow log is typical; and those which are wider than they are deep, such as the “hoop drums” of the northern plains and woods Indians. Let us consider the hollow log type first. | The Log Drum or Tombe Cottonwood logs are the traditional—and in many respects -—the best logs for the drum frame. White cedar and white pine are also excellent. White cedar is not only easy to work, but produces a drum of delightful tone. The log must be hollow, but with a solid unrotted outer shell. The little cracks and checks which all dead logs have, make no difference at all; but care must be taken to see that there are no large cracks, The drum should be a little less than twice as long as it is wide; that is, if it is I2 inches wide, it should be about 22 inches long. A log 10 or 12 inches in diameter makes a good sized drum. With mallet and chisel, or gouge, hollow out the log toa thin shell. Make your mallet out of a hardwood stick—oak or maple—4 inches in diameter, inserting a handle of the diameter of a broomstick. The shell should not be thicker than %4 to 3% of an inch—the thinner, the better. Work slowly and carefully, taking no chances in splitting it. Round off the sharp edges. Any kind of rawhide (untanned hide) will do for the heads, provided it is not too thick. If obtainable, I would ‘recommend goat skin, which 1s not only thin, but unusually tough and strong. Send for it to the saddlery or leather stores. Young calfskin can also be used. Soak the hides for at least 24 hours, making them soft and pliable. Cut out two disks, each 6 inches larger in diameter than the log. Lay them over the ends, and tack them in place temporarily. Be careful not to stretch the hide too tight, or it will split when it dries; pull it just tight enough so that it does not sag. Cut holes for the lashes every 4 inches around the edges of the hide. Make the