Submitted by Plank Road Publishing, Brookfield, Wisconsin
Idea posted September 10, 2003
The simplest way to make a kazoo is the old tried and true method of wrapping wax paper around the end of a comb. But if you would like to improve on that a bit, we have invented a very simple kazoo that can be assembled in a hurry. Try this:
- For each one, you'll need a cardboard tube from a roll of TP (or cleanly sliced pieces of similar lengths from longer tubes.) You will also need a piece of wax paper approximately 3" square, and some adhesive tape. Art materials for decoration are optional.
- Take the 3" square of wax, and put a good-size piece of tape on two opposite corners. Centering the wax paper on one end of the tube, pull one flap of paper down and secure it to the side of the tube. Now, stretch the paper tightly across the top of the tube, and secure the other corner on the opposite side. It should be fairly taut, though you will note that it is not airtight. The other two corners should protrude.
- That's it - you have a kazoo! Now, to make sure that it works, place your mouth loosely over the open end and "doot-de-doo" a little melody. If the paper buzzes, you've done it. Now you can decorate it to taste. HOWEVER, be sure NOT to use permanent markers or anything that leaves fumes that might harm a player.
- You will note that humming doesn't produce a sound as good as you get when "doot-doo"ing through the tube. Commercial kazoos will allow you to hum, but they lack the homemade fun that the tube kazoos give. Try larger kazoos for bass use.
If you do decide to purchase your kazoos, we have colorful, American-made kazoos available in the Instruments store on MusicK8.com.
Download these instructions with drawings: Search for "How To Make Your Own Kazoo" in the Downloads area.