#1   Consider the type of drum you want.   This will depend on how you will use it, and what sound you want it to play.  Look at the pictures and descriptions of our different types of drums to help you decide.  All of our drums are made from old and weathered logs.  Many have knots and burls, insect trails, bird excavations, and lightning holes.  But these features are obviously not controlled by the drummaker; we trust that  YOUR log will be waiting when it is time to make YOUR drum.

#2   Decide on a size range for your drum (diameter and height). Because we only use the natural outside diameter of old, weathered logs, we cannot guanantee an exact diameter but will get as close to your desired size as possible.

#3   What method of head lacing do you prefer?  One head or two?  Lacing from head to head, lacing to pegs, or lacing through holes in the side of drum.

#4   Spend some time considering the Spirit of your drum.  What so you want to say to your drum?  What do you want the drum to say to you?  We encourage you to incorporate a Spirit Guide, Animal Helper, or some other abstract or concrete theme on your drum.

 #5   Do you want your design carved OR carved and stained with color(s) of your choosing.  All of our stains are derived from natural sources such as walnut, cochineal, and indigo and vary in shade and intensity. 

CONSULTATION
    Once you have thought about these questions,  it's time to talk to Jerry.  He likes to hear your voice and respond to your spirit when he creates a drum.  He'll set a price and give you an estimated completion date.  Jerry is best reached on weekday mornings (Central time) in his studio (316-659-3363).  If this in not convenient, please e-mail us to set up another time. 

ORDERING A DRUM
     You should sign the order form and return it to us.  When Jerry is about to start work on your drum, we
will contact you again.  At this time, a deposit of 65% of the cost of your drum will be due.

TIME FRAME: 
    Because each drum is handmade and individual, it is impossible to estimate an exact date for completion.  Just the right log must be found and hollowed, and the Spirit must direct the carving of the design.  We will try to arrive at an anticipated date at the time of finalizing the order.  As drums are made in the sequence of orders received, completion will also depend on the number of orders before yours. 

COMPLETION:
    When your drum is finished, you will be notified and the balance of the price will be due along with the shipping, applicable tax, and insurance charges.  An appropriate beater will also be included with your drum.

GUARANTEE:
    Since these drums are hand-made of natural materials, no guarantee can be implied or expressed.  With reasonable care, they should perform for many years.  Rawhide heads do need to be replaced from time to time depending on how often and how hard they are played.  The rawhide heads are also sensative to humidity (drums don't sing when it rains).   Sunshine, campfires, and air-conditioning all remove humidity and tighten heads.