This in person frame drum making class will take place in Saint Paul, MN. The class will be from 1-4pm. Additional details will be sent upon registration.
The Materials You Need
Instructor Intro
Choosing and Preparing the Drum Hide
Setting Intentions Into Your Drum
Weaving Your Hide onto the Frame
Drum Beater Materials + Process
Drum Handling and Care
Continuing Your Drum Journey
for February 21, 2026 from 1-4pm
$255.00
Price includes all materials and instructor fees
In this workshop we will be making a 16-inch frame drum, which offers a rich, warm tone and is ideal for beginners and experienced drummers alike.
For this workshop, all drums will be made with maple frames and deer hides because they create the most reliable, resonant, and beginner-friendly instruments. Maple is lightweight, durable, and produces a warm, balanced tone that holds up beautifully over time. Deer hide offers a rich, natural sound with great responsiveness and is traditionally valued for hand-played drums. Together, these materials ensure you leave with a drum that is both quality made and deeply connected to tradition.
Wooden drum frame (maple), deer hide, walnut wood drum beater, lacing materials for both drum and beater, tools needed for assembling and drying
No! This workshop is designed for all skill levels, including absolute beginners. You’ll be guided step-by-step through the entire building process.
Please bring your own towel for drying your hide (a used bath towel will be fine--nothing fancy). All other tools and materials are provided. I will also have a variety of stones, ceremonial plants, and leather lacing/fabrics available to personalize your own drum. However, if you have special times like feathers, stones, beads, etc. for tying into your drum or beater or personal leather straps/fabrics for making your drum handle feel free to bring your own.
Comfortable warm clothing that you don’t mind getting a little messy — some hide-work can involve water or natural residues.
Your frame drum will need 24–48 hours to fully dry and tighten. After that, it will be fully playable. I will be hosting a separate Drum Awakening Ceremony on February 23rd for those who want to be part of the drum awakening. It will be free for all participants.
This workshop is generally suitable for ages 12+ with guardian support because tools and hide work require strength some kids may need additional hands-on support.
Many steps can be adapted, and assistance is provided as needed. If you have concerns, please reach out ahead of time so I can support you properly. Please note that the drum studio space is on the ground level. However, the bathroom has a step leading up to it.
This workshop is only focused on the drum making process. I will have other frame drum playing opportunities throughout the year that will focus on playing techniques and fundamentals.
A handmade frame drum carries the energy, intention, and craftsmanship of the builder. Your drum will be unique in tone, texture, and appearance—unlike any mass-produced instrument. It truly is a special bond and creative process from start to finish.
Make Your Drum -- Awaken Your Drum -- Play Your Drum
on February 21, 2026 during this Frame Drum Making Workshop in Saint Paul, MN. After the workshop is over you will go home with your very own handmade drum and drum beater.
during the Drum Awakening Ceremony at the Women's Drum Center in Saint Paul, MN. People who register for this workshop can attend for FREE. Date and Time is February, 27th from 7:30-8:30pm.
during a 4 week frame drum class at the Women's Drum Center. This class series will be focused on learning cultural and traditional songs on the frame drum. Exact dates coming soon!
for February 21, 2026 from 1-4pm
$255.00
Price includes all materials and instructor fees
Stay on site for this workshop
