Medicine Drum Making Workshop

Several Medicine Drums

Cost varies depending on size and materials of drum. See below for pricing. 
Limited to 15 participants, ages 12 and up.
Registration closes Wed, May 15. $50 deposit due at registration.

Click here to register!

The drum is a part of native heritage from tribal cultures all over the world. This single sided drum is crafted using a wooden hoop or frame and a stretched rawhide head and lacing. Covered on only one side, the back is laced to form the symbol of a medicine wheel with the four cardinal directions that also serve as a hand hold. Great for drumming circles and meditation!

In this workshop you will be supplied everything you need to create your own frame drum and accompanying beater. While you are making your creations Valarie and Ian will teach you the care and feeding of your drum, as well as how to use them in healing and cleansing ceremonies.

We will begin with a Drum Journey to connect to the Heartbeat of the Drum, and then start the process of creating our drums and beaters.  After creating the drum, we’ll celebrate its birth with a special ceremony.  Birthing a drum is an intense process, one not easily forgotten. The drum face can later be painted with your Animal Totem or designs. You can also personalize the drum with beads and feathers to strengthen the connection with your drum.

Create this medicine item at the beautiful Hawk Mountain Sanctuary and take in the beautiful trails before and/or after the event! We will have the opportunity to perform our Blessing Ceremony in a very special natural space. Our mid-day break will include a visit with a live raptor!

Drum Options:

Maple Frame/Deer Hide Drum - $235
Includes all materials for a 16″ diameter drum and drum stick

Maple Frame/Elk Hide Drum - $235
Includes all materials for a 16″ diameter drum and drum stick

Maple Frame/Buffalo Hide Drum - $265
Includes all materials for a 18″ diameter drum and drum stick

All other materials will be provided and are included in the price of the workshop.
If you have some special beads or feathers which you’d like to decorate your drum you may also bring them. Also, please pack a lunch. An email will be sent to participants with details and directions 1 week prior to the event.