How I Work
“merely working precisely and fine just like stars are moving in the sky”
I love working by hand, touching and feeling materials. The same way I can feel your inner qualities if we talk personally about your instrument. Expertise, inspiration and creativity are flowing through my hands and help me to bring your drum into life.
First, i would like to learn about your path and listen your ‘visions’ about the desired instrument. Whether you need a simple traditional drum or a shamanic instrument with complex symbolism and artwork i will take the appropriate time and do the planning which will result in an amazing drum with powerful spirit.
Hides
The hides are finished by a professional prepare man in Hungary. I work with Deer, Goat, Sheep, Cow, Horse and Wild Boar hides. Each skin has different sound, pattern and quality which is determined by many factors, such as the season the skin was prepared and the place the animal lived. A goat hide is usually very sensitive and therefore it is not recommended for intensive , hard play, while a thick wild boar or a horse hide is almost indestructible. Feel free to contact me if you need help with your choice!
Frames
The frames are built from birch wood. I offer different sizes from 12 inch – 30 cm to 36 inch – 90 cm and i am able to build the shape of your choice from traditional circle to oval Saami styles. The completed frames are finished with natural oil and can be painted with any colours according to your request. Usually, the larger the frame, the deeper and richer the sound of the drum. However it is not the ultimate law. I gave birth many smaller drums with surprisingly deep sound and responsive drumhead.
Professional Artwork
I am happy to paint your personal symbols on your drum. If you don’t have your clear plan about the artwork i am happy to assist you through the process of planning your personal design. The painting on the drum is not only a decoration, but gives a ‘program’ for the instrument, therefore it is important to think it over before we paint on the drum.
I use high quality painting tools, pigments and acrylic paints that do not destroy the structure of the hide while i make sure the completed artwork won’t wear down over time.
Eva Ujfalusi
Professional artist
Sometimes i meet my limitations when you require a professional artistic design for your drum. In this case i pass the task to a master artist Eva Ujfalusi. Eva is not only extremely creative, but she is knowledgable about shamanic symbols. Each time a challanging artistic design is required, first she is going to draw a skech for your approval.
Supplies
Zoltan Legardi
Leather Worker
I spend most of my time to find the appropriate materials such coloured and tanned leathers, lacings, furs and other rare leather supplies. The first place i visit when i need high quality tanned leathers is Zoltan’s warehouse. His shop is a real treasure-house with a huge selection of leather products from rare snake skins to thick buffalo hides.
More about my work
Making a genuine meditation drum begins with a selection of all-natural materials following traditional shamanic craftsmanship.
My types of drum skins include Red Deer, Wild Boar, Goat, Sheep, and Horse, which I obtain from licensed hunters of local forests and rural farmers who raise and herd livestock in traditional and natural ways.
After choosing the perfect skin, I build the instrument frames by hand out of birch wood, which is strong and smooth — perfect for drum making and long-lasting use.
Testimonials
If you are resonating well with my path and you like the way i work
Handmade Shamanic Instruments