Nights spent around the campfire aren't quite complete without a banjo, and this DIY version can be constructed from an upcycled cookie tin (or box) and a few junk drawer staples.
Supplies:
- Vintage cookie tin, cigar box, or cardboard box
- Paint
- Tuning screws
- Hot glue gun and Sticks
- Wooden beads
- Rubber bands
- Cardboard
- Wooden craft sticks
Step 1. Have an adult cut a hole in a metal tin using a mat knife. After the hole is cut, the adult can use a dremel tool or sand paper to sand down the hole edges until they are no longer sharp. (Younger kids should choose a cardboard box for the body of their banjo and use scissors to cut the hole.)
Step 2. Use craft or spray paint to paint the tin or box as desired.
Step 3. Drill four holes on either side of the large hole created in step 1. Next, install tuning screws by twisting them into the holes. Use hot glue to attach a colorful wooden bead on top of the tuning screws.
Step 4. Wrap standard size rubber bands around the tuning screws creating strings.
Step 5. Use craft or spray paint to paint a piece of cardboard. Attach to the back of the tin or box with hot glue, creating the handle.
Step 6. Use hot glue to attach wooden craft sticks and more wooden beads to the cardboard on the handle to make frets.
