Caring for your Shamanic Drum

Each buffalo hide drum is a living instrument,  hand-crafted with natural materials that respond to the environment.  With proper care, your drum will serve you for many years as a powerful ally in ceremony, journeying, meditation and sound work.

Understanding Your Drum

  • Buffalo hide is strong, thick, and resonant, producing a particular deep, grounding tone. As an organic material, it is sensitive to temperature and humidity.
  • The sound will naturally shift with the weather: tighter and brighter in dry heat, deeper and looser in dampness.
  • The drum offers many various tones depending on where you play. For example near the edges, 2 or 3” into the drum or the centre.  A soft good quality beater is also  recommended.

Storing Your Drum

  • Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, radiators, or heaters.
  • Avoid damp areas at all costs (like basements) to prevent softening or mould.
  • Never leave in a car – extreme heat or cold and sudden temperature change can cause irreversible damage.
  • Store the drum flat or hanging on a wall, not leaning, to protect the frame.
  • Do not store head facing down on the floor or ground.
  • Use a protective bag or thick cloth / blanket cover for travel and storage.

Playing in Different Conditions

Cold or damp weather may loosen the hide:

  • Warm it gently near (not on) a stove, radiator, or sunny window.
  • Hold it against your body to transfer warmth.

Hot or dry weather may over-tighten the hide:

  • Lightly mist the back of the hide with clean water (never soak).
  • Allow the tone to settle before playing.

Maintenance & Care

Cleaning: Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid soaps, oils, or polishes.
Frame care: Lightly oil the wooden frame once or twice a year with natural oil (avoid the hide).
Drum beater: Keep dry; brush fur-covered beaters lightly to keep them fluffy.
Inspection: Check occasionally for cracking or loose lacing. Early care prevents damage.

What Never to Do With Your Drum
Never leave it in a car, greenhouse, or conservatory.
Never place directly on a radiator, heater, or fire.
Never soak the hide or leave it in the rain.
Never use oils, polish, or chemicals on the hide.
Never store leaning against a wall long-term (this may warp the frame).
Never lend for extended periods if you wish to keep your personal connection with it.

Long-Term Care & Spirit of the Drum

Many people treat their drum as a living spirit, offering smudging, song, or gratitude.
Use a drum bag when traveling - especially across climates.
if the hide slackens during ceremony, keep a safe, gentle heat source nearby.
Your bond with the drum deepens the more you play, sing, and work with it.
Your buffalo hide drum is more than an instrument – it is a partner in your spiritual and creative journey. Treat it with respect and care, and it will remain a powerful companion for many years.

Playing & Connecting With Your Drum

  • Hold the drum gently, letting your arm and hand relax so the sound can flow freely.
  • Strike the hide with a steady, respectful rhythm rather than force — the drum responds best to intention, not strength.
  • Before playing, take a breath, set your intention, and listen for the drum’s spirit. Many players like to greet the drum with gratitude or a simple prayer.
  • Allow the rhythm to guide you — connection often comes when you let go of “thinking” and simply feel the beat.
  • Over time, your relationship with the drum deepens, becoming a trusted ally in ceremony, healing, and journeying.
Love and enjoy your drum.