DIY Musical Instruments for Kids

There is something about music that gives it a magical quality. As Jane Swan once asked, “How is it that music can, without words, evoke our laughter, our fears, our highest aspirations?”

I’m sure many parents have noticed their toddlers rocking and bopping to a tune or their preschoolers turning everyday objects into musical instruments as they bang out a beat.

Well if you are ready to up your game a bit, try your hand at making one of the DIY musical instruments featured below.

Building your own instrument is a science and engineering exercise in which kids can experiment with sound and design. And of course, once their instrument is complete, your child will be inspired to engage in some artistic expression as they play for an adoring audience.

String Instruments

Check out the clever ways people have come up with to build their own string instruments. These instruments are just delightful!

Make a harp out of cardboard by Little Ladoo

Make a guitar out of elastic bands and other household items by Red Ted Art

Make a banjo out of lids and elastic bands by The Craft Train

Shakers and Rattles

Kids love to shake and rattle things. Here are several fun and creative ideas for making your own shakers and rattles for a homemade band.

Make maracas out of spoons and plastic eggs by Kids Craft Room

Make a rainstick out of cardboard tubes and rice by Gift of Curiosity

Make shaker eggs with different textures of sand by Mama Smiles

Make some rattles out of driftwood and shells by Red Ted Art

Make some shakers out of eggshells by Red Ted Art

Make jingle sticks out of sticks and bells by Danya Banya

Drums and Percussion Instruments

What child hasn’t enjoyed banging on pots, pans, boxes, chairs, or other items in order to make noise? If you have a young drummer, try creating your own drum or percussion instrument for them to enjoy.

Make some drums out of recycled cans by East Coast Mommy

Make a tambourine out of paper plates by Kids Craft Room

Make a xylophone out of glasses filled with water by Still Playing School

Make a large xylophone out of wood by And Next Comes L

Wind Instruments

Creating a DIY wind instrument takes a bit of effort, but the end result is well worth it. Check out these creative ideas below.

Make a french horn out of a funnel and plastic pipe by Savvy Homemade

Make a pan flute out of plastic straws by Buggy and Buddy

Make a kazoo out of cardboard tubes by Buggy and Buddy

How to make a slide whistle out of PVC pipe by Teach Beside Me

More Music Resources

You’ll find more resources for engaging music activities on my Music Activities Pinterest board.