This large drum has a sturdy hand made frame of cedar wood and contains a beautiful deep sound. The wood of the frame is extremely fragrant and is very noticeable when used in sweats. I have used a natural red stain on this frame that enhances the red of the skin making it very dark and beautiful.

The skin used is Elk: Elk have stamina, Strength, Nobility, Elk teaches us how to pace ourselves.

The wood used in the hoop is Canadian Cedar:The cedar tree has been revered throughout history for its spiritual significance. The wood was used for the doors of sacred temples as well as being burned for cleansing ceremonies and for protection. It is said in the Himalayas, the cedar is called “deodar” from the Sanskrit word “devdar,” meaning timber of the gods.

Before making any tool such as drums or rattles, I first smudge myself and the skin saying a prayer to the animal that sacrificed itself for this special work.
I feel that it is important that the essence of the animal that gave up it’s skin know that it is being used in the creation of sacred tools.

The process I use to dye the skin for my drums is as simple as it is ancient.
Using a combination of beet and pomegranate juice that I extract myself, as well as several different local herbs I allow the skins to sit overnight so that they soak up as much color as possible. it is said that Pomegranate and beet juices were among the first plant dyes used in ancient times.