The Musical Element Of Native American Gourd Rattles



Native American gourd rattles are already used for many years in traditional ceremonies and dances. When made properly they've created beautiful music. They are also lovely home accents. Lots of people don't realize that these rattles are in reality made from all natural gourds. They will look great hanging on the wall, put on a shelf or displayed with Native American instruments. Continue reading to learn more about these rattles to be able to better appreciate their particular beauty. - Native American Drone Flute (Double Bore) Demonstration - Matt Tastic


Each Indian tribe uses different techniques when creating their rattles, although most gourd rattles come in a similar fashion. First gourds are needed. Traditionally Native Americans would grow these for use in their rattle making. An experienced rattle maker understands the particular shape that is needed to create rattles. Not every gourd will work well for this task. They are left on the vine until they may be mature. You can tell a gourd is ready to make right into a rattle when you can hear the seeds rattle inside once the gourd is shaken.

Next, the interior of the gourd will need to be cleaned. A little hole is cut and also the seeds are applied for. In order to clean the rattle completely inside, special tools are used. The pulp and seeds must be removed before sometimes it can go through the creative procedure for gourd making. It is then dried and prepared for preparation. The clean shell could be painted or varnished that will improve the sound quality and durability of the finished product.

Next, the rattle is able to be filled. Some tribes use special, symbolic items in the gourd. The items will hold a special meaning. Otherwise the rattle can just be filled with seeds, dried corn or beads. Then the hole that was made is filled utilizing a small cork and the rattle can be painted.

Amazing rattles are made by hand and then painted with Indian designs. Often, the artist will decorate the rattle with beadwork, leather and feathers. The handle with the rattle is a great spot for artistic beading or a leather wrapping.

These rattles in many cases are small, but with just a little searching you can find some just a little larger as well. Try to look for ones that are made by Indian artists because they are made using authentic and time honored techniques.

Once you find one which you like, it is time to put it on display. These colorful American Indian gourd rattles will look stunning placed on a presentation shelf or even on a wall. It can be fun to make use of these in a music room with other Native American instruments like drone flutes or drums are saved to display. These unique rattles can make a beautiful statement in your home decor and will quickly become treasured possessions in your house. - Native American Drone Flute (Double Bore) Demonstration - Matt Tastic