DIY Craft Stick Harmonica

Build your own musical instrument using simple household items! You will learn how air vibrations create sound waves that travel to your ears to make music.

Materials

• tongue depressors/popsicle sticks (2)
• thick rubber band (1)
• thin rubber bands (2)
• cardstock (two 2-inch x 2-inch squares)
• clear tape (4 small pieces)

Safety

• Adult supervision required for sharp objects.
• Protect work surface. Materials may stain clothing.
• Rubber bands can snap. Wear eye protection if launching projectiles.
• Adult supervision required for children under 8.

Steps

1. Optional: Use markers to color your tongue depressors to make your harmonica look fun.
2. Take one tongue depressor and wrap the thick rubber band around it securely.
3. Take your first 2-inch cardstock square and fold it three times to create a small, thick strip.
4. Create a piece of double-sided tape by rolling a piece of tape so it is sticky on all sides. Attach the folded cardstock strip to the tape.
5. Stick the taped cardstock onto the second tongue depressor, leaving a small gap from the end of the stick.
6. Repeat the process with the second 2-inch cardstock square: fold it three times, attach it to a piece of rolled tape, and stick it to the other end of the second tongue depressor (leaving a small gap from the end).
7. Place the first tongue depressor (the one with the thick rubber band) on top of the second one to create a 'stick sandwich'.
8. Wrap one thin rubber band tightly around the end where the first piece of cardstock is located. Wrap it 6 or 7 times to ensure it is very tight.
9. Wrap the second thin rubber band tightly around the other end where the second piece of cardstock is located, also wrapping it 6 or 7 times.
10. To play, breathe in and then blow or talk into the space between the sticks to create musical vibrations!