A good cajon can recreate the bass and snare sounds of a full drum kit. Yet it is much smaller and easier to transport than a drum kit, making it ideal for the travelling musician or band.
The first cajons originated in Peru, where African slaves used crates or boxes as drums. Over time, steel strings were added inside, giving them the distinctive snare sound.
The cajon is a versatile percussion instrument capable of producing a broad range of sounds, but making your own is not much more difficult than building a simple wooden box.
Instructions
1. Measure and cut the plyboard for the sides, top and bottom to the required dimensions. The finished cajon should be both tall enough and wide enough to sit on comfortably. A good timber merchant or DIY store will be able to provide plyboard cut to your specifications.
2. Draw a circular sound hole at least 4 inches in diameter on the plyboard that will form the back of the cajon, using a compass. Carefully cut out the hole using a drill and jigsaw or coping saw. File and sand the edges of the hole smooth. The sound hole increases the cajon's volume by allowing more sound to escape.
3. Tape or screw the ends of the guitar strings or snare drum wire vertically across the center of the thinner piece of plyboard. The thin ply will form the front striking side of the box. The wires will be in contact with the inside surface of the thinner front panel along their entire length. The strings will produce the cajon's distinctive snare sound by vibrating against the wood when the front panel is struck.
4. Assemble the box using wood glue and small, evenly spaced wood pins, clamping where necessary. Use the lengths of pine or other softwood to strengthen the structure inside. Allow the wood glue to dry for 24 hours.
5. Screw or glue the rubber feet to the bottom of the instrument. Keeping the cajon raised off of the ground will give the instrument a richer, fuller tone.
6. File and sand the edges and corners to create a smooth finish.
7. Varnish or paint the finished cajon and allow the finish to dry.
