Although summer is over, the soft sound of wind chimes is always a pleasure when the rain comes. Being stimulated by the sound of a wind chime represents a source of regeneration and calm at the same time. The beauty of the sound of the wind chime lies in its sweetness and in the fact that it is capable of creating a sound background to support our moments of relaxation, such as reading. Anyone who appreciates this type of furniture for their balcony or terrace often enjoys throwing themselves into DIY. For this reason, the following article explains how to make your own wind chime, so that the sound is emitted well and is pleasant. To make a wind chime you need good manual skills and some essential tools that you can buy from IperBriko.
The first step: the craftsmanship of the materials
The first step to take is the purchase of melodic sticks, which must be selected in a shop that deals with artisanal production. You need to look among the shops that have tubular bells outside, so that you can check the quality of the sound inside each individual wand before purchasing. Most of the tubular bells within the market use a pentatonic scale. The price changes depending on the size and type of wand. The dimensions of the bell will depend greatly on the budget you have available, beyond the space within which you decide to place the bell. The following steps are:
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Buy a basic number of melodic sticks so that you can support the structure. Usually the number changes from four to twelve.
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After which we must purchase the base of our bell, which can be made of metal, wood or plastic, guaranteeing an octagonal or circular shape. Optimal would be to make the holes in advance, to facilitate the attachment of the rods and, if everything is already applied, to provide a hook for hanging it. Alternatively you can add this part later.
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Alternatively it is possible to create a base in wood personal, cut it by hand (or with the aid of cabinetmaking tools) and give the shape you prefer.
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Lanyards are also necessary, which allow you to hang the melodic sticks. You can find these lanyards in modeling or craft shops.
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The possibility of purchasing a clapper should be considered. Although it does not constitute a fundamental and indispensable element, this can be added in order to give small blows to the melodic sticks, which sway as the wind passes. The clapper finds its ideal position halfway up the total height of the sticks: it goes without saying that the lighter this element is, the sweeter and more delicate the sound of the bell will be.
Second step: a question of measurements
An important step to address is that relating to the length, because it is necessary to establish the length at which you want to hang the melodic sticks. To evaluate the length you will need to measure the cord starting from the base and establishing the preferred size. If you wish to position the wand on multiple levels, you need to be careful by carefully measuring each level, so that you can balance the balance of the bell and make it appear tidier, it is therefore not advisable to arrange the wands haphazardly.
After which you will have to knot each single cord beyond the hole on the base, passing the end of the cord through the hole on the stick, which is knotted. Thanks to the cord, the wand will be strongly tied to the base, although it will be necessary to constantly check the balance of the structure.
The fourth step: the hooks
At this point it will be necessary to install hooks at regular intervals on the upper part of the base. It will be necessary to attach a cord or thin metal wire directly to the eyelet of each single hook. Before being tied together, each metal wire is added to a decorative cylinder. Clearly this is a completely optional option, but useful for decorating the structure and making the final product look as professional as possible. When you attach a cord hanging from the center of the base, you will have the ability to ring the bell even if there is no wind.
Time to tune
Numerous wind chimes produce their own sound based on the diameter and length of the rods that have been chosen. If the sound of the bell is pleasant, then there is no need to proceed to tune it. Conversely, if you are not satisfied with the sound, then you can change the number as well as the position of the sticks, until you find the sound you like best. Don't be afraid to try things out in the hope of finding the right combination. Those who are skilled with music can tune the bell with the help of another musical instrument, even if it is not a simple and short job.
Some tips
The construction of this musical instrument will be, in addition to a pleasant visual experience, also a satisfying sound experience, so you can make a mix of preferences between shapes and sounds. Some use, in addition to metal tubes, bamboo canes or shells. Those who love agriculture also use CDs, which with their reflective powers can ward off annoying birds ready to feed on the harvest. Finally, don't forget to get scissors, melodic sticks, the base of the bell, some hooks, a measuring tape and a hacksaw, in case you want to be independent in making your own sticks. Now it's entirely up to you, kickstart your creativity and adorn your exterior with a pinch of musicality.
