Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesSpecial offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
The Tone-of-fun tongue drum Woodworking Plan is a downloadable plan for building a six-note instrument—not a listing for a finished drum. WOOD describes a slatted top that produces sound when struck. The project appeared in WOOD Issue 172 in October 2006; the online listing was published March 31, 2020.
What this woodworking plan is—and what the listing leaves out
WOOD Magazine’s listing describes the project as an “easy-to-build” instrument and says it makes sound when its slatted top is struck. That description identifies the project, but the public listing does not provide the build specifications.
- Available from the listing: the project’s identity as a six-note tongue drum, its slatted striking surface, and its print provenance.
- Not shown on the listing: detailed dimensions, a cut list, wood species, joinery, or a tool list. Use the downloadable plan—not a general instrument-building guide—as the authority for those decisions.
How the drum’s construction relates to its sound
In Musical Instrument Design: Practical Information for Instrument Making, instrument maker Bart Hopkin describes tongue drums as related to log or slit drums. An enclosed air chamber enriches the sound of struck wood; the sides and bottom mainly form that chamber and provide structure, while the top plays the more important acoustic role. Hopkin also notes that tongues generally run along the grain for strength. These are broad design observations, not specifications for the WOOD plan.
Why tuning may be more complicated than cutting one tongue at a time
Hopkin cautions that tongues cut into a shared top can interact. Vibration from one tongue may deaden or detune another, particularly when neighboring pitches are close. His reference discusses removing material from the underside to tune a tongue; undercutting near its base can lower pitch while making its connection to the top less rigid. These are consequential, design-dependent adjustments. Follow the plan’s instructions rather than applying them as a stand-alone tuning recipe.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
HOPWELL Steel Tongue Drum - 13 Inches 15 Notes Tongue Drum - Hand Pan Drum with Music Book, Handpan Drums Mallets and Carry Bag, D Major (Navy Blue)
- 15 NOTE WIDER RANGE: 15 tones and D-key design allows you to play most complex songs. Hopwell steel tongue drum can meet professional performance needs and also beginner friendly. Having more notes matters, because it's easier to play a full song the more notes you have available to you. You will not regret your decision to go with this one!
- HIGH QUALITY: Hopwell steel tongue drums are hand crafted by our master artisans, the surfaces are painted with paint which is pollution-free and does not fade
- CHARMING SOUNDS: The tone is beautiful, clear, and melodic. It's very relaxing and enjoyable, D Major. Good sound and a break from electronics
- EASY TO LEARN: Hopwell steel tongue drum is perfectly tuned to produce a clear and delightful sound experience. They are designed so that a total beginner - even people don’t have any musical ability or sense of rhythm – can quickly produce beautiful sounds
- GREAT GIFT IDEA: This instrument will inspire others to take an interest in music and produce clean, vibrant sounds everyone adores. Beautifully finished and very sturdy, each drum comes with its own elegant and practical carrying case
What to have in hand before building
- Get the downloadable plan. Read its dimensions, materials, tool requirements, and construction sequence before buying stock or making cuts.
- Confirm the plan’s intended assembly. Do not infer the body design, joinery, or whether the drum is open or enclosed from general descriptions of tongue drums.
- Separate building from tuning. Make any pitch adjustments only as directed by the plan; changing the top can affect how neighboring tongues sound.
Playing accessories
Hopkin notes that a bamboo tongue drum can sound good with a superball mallet or another moderately soft beater. That is general playing guidance, not evidence that a particular mallet is required or included with this WOOD plan. A soft rubber percussion mallet may be an optional accessory to consider after the instrument is built.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 1
Best Value
Panda Drum Plus (Sandstone) | Steel Tongue Drum | 11 Inch | Calming Handpan
- Ethereal Sound for Relaxation. Expertly tuned to pure, hollow tones, this steel tongue drum creates soothing sounds, ideal for meditation, yoga, classrooms, and therapy.
- Durable Metal Construction. Made from high-quality stainless steel with a protective coating, this percussion instrument withstands indoor and outdoor use. Perfect for concerts, gatherings, and mindful sound sessions.
- Accessible to Everyone. Includes a music book, mallets, and finger picks for effortless musical expression. Ideal for beginners, and music lovers who enjoy studying themselves and exploring creative rhythm patterns.
- Natural & Versatile. Produces deep, hand pan like tones reminiscent of gongs, chimes, and marimba. Great for sound healing, mindfulness sessions, or musical exploration with family and friends.
- Portable & Thoughtful Gift. Comes with a carrying bag for travel or outdoor practice. A unique gift for birthdays or holidays. Perfect for yoga lovers, drummers, and anyone seeking calm and creativity.
Rank #4
HOPWELL Steel Tongue Drum - 13 Inches 15 Notes Tongue Drum - Hand Pan Drum with Music Book, Handpan Drums Mallets and Carry Bag, D Major (Malachite Green)
- 15 NOTE WIDER RANGE: 15 tones and D-key design allows you to play most complex songs. Hopwell steel tongue drum can meet professional performance needs and also beginner friendly. Having more notes matters, because it's easier to play a full song the more notes you have available to you. You will not regret your decision to go with this one!
- HIGH QUALITY: Hopwell steel tongue drums are hand crafted by our master artisans, the surfaces are painted with paint which is pollution-free and does not fade
- CHARMING SOUNDS: The tone is beautiful, clear, and melodic. It's very relaxing and enjoyable, D Major. Good sound and a break from electronics
- EASY TO LEARN: Hopwell steel tongue drum is perfectly tuned to produce a clear and delightful sound experience. They are designed so that a total beginner - even people don’t have any musical ability or sense of rhythm – can quickly produce beautiful sounds
- GREAT GIFT IDEA: This instrument will inspire others to take an interest in music and produce clean, vibrant sounds everyone adores. Beautifully finished and very sturdy, each drum comes with its own elegant and practical carrying case
Rank #3
Rain Drum for Outside Garden, 6 Inches 8 Notes Steel Tongue Chakra Drums, Waterproof Meditation Rain Chime, Musical Instruments for Adult Gift with Bag, Music Book, Drum Mallets (Green)
- RAIN DRUM FOR OUTSIDE: The rain drum is crafted to capture the serene sounds of rain. As raindrops hit its surface, the drum resonates, offering a soothing auditory experience. Transform your garden into a tranquil concert venue, providing a peaceful ambiance. Ideal for relaxation, meditation.
- HIGH-QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP: Expertly crafted, this 6-inch chakra drum for rain is made from titanium alloy and coated with paint for exceptional corrosion and rust resistance, and can withstand various weather conditions. Each steel tongue drum is hand-tuned and precisely cut to ensure achieve accurate tones and harmonies.
- AESTHETIC GARDEN DECORATION: More than a musical instrument, this rain drum is a stunning decorative piece for your garden. Its vibrant colors and sleek design add an artistic touch to any outdoor space. Whether enhancing your garden’s aesthetics or creating a focal point, this waterproof rain drum infuses your decor with a burst of color and style.
- VERSATILE & CREATIVE USE: The outdoor rain chime drum produces beautiful, mellow sounds at a moderate volume. Place it in your garden during a rain shower to let the raindrops create a natural symphony, or take it into the bathroom while showering for unique and soothing melodies. Perfect for sleep, concerts, music education, yoga, and meditation.
- UNIQUE GIFT FOR FRIENDS: The steel rain drum's calming sounds bring clarity and peace of mind, making it a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Easy to play with musical drumsticks or by the natural strike of rain. This tongue rain drum will be a unique present for women, or men, as Christmas, birthdays, get-well wishes, or white elephant exchanges.
Rank #2
HOPWELL Steel Tongue Drum - 15 Note 12 Inch Tongue Drums - Percussion Instruments - Hand Pan Drum with Music Book, Drum Mallets and Carry Bag, D Major, Navy Blue
- EXPANDED 15-NOTE RANGE: Hopwell steel tongue drum offers 15 notes in a D-major key design, providing an expanded range of tones that enable you to play complex melodies and harmonies. It's perfect for both professional musicians and beginners, with a user-friendly design that allows for easy playing. With more notes available, you can create fuller and richer sounds in your music.
- HIGH QUALITY: Hopwell steel tongue drums are made of premium titanium alloy material and are handcrafted by our master artisans. The surfaces are painted with a pollution-free paint that does not fade.
- GRACEFUL & ETHEREAL SOUNDS: The tones produced by our Hopwell steel tongue drums are beautiful, clear, and melodic, providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience. The D Major key is particularly suited for healing sounds and offers a break from electronic devices.
- EASY TO LEARN: The Hopwell steel tongue drum is perfectly tuned to produce a clear and delightful sound experience. It is designed in such a way that even total beginners, including those without any musical ability or sense of rhythm, can quickly produce beautiful sounds.
- GREAT GIFT IDEA: This instrument is a great way to inspire others to take an interest in music and produce clean, vibrant sounds that everyone can enjoy. Beautifully finished and sturdy, each drum comes with its own elegant and practical carrying case.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
