How to oil your Shamanic Drum

Your Drum is a living being; it will be your teacher, your healer and your friend. As such, you will want to look after it and care for it properly. When it is cared for, your Drum will want to sing for a long, long time. Having a hide Drum, it is necessary to consider how you transport your Drum, where you store it, where you play it, and how you look after it.

In this article, I'll delve into the why, when, and how of drum oiling, ensuring that these sacred medicine tools stay in good condition for years to come. Also, check out our video on YouTube, guiding you through the process (see below article).

Why Oiling Your Drums is Necessary

Just like our own skin, drum skins possess natural oils. These oils play a vital role in keeping the drumhead supple and responsive. When a drumhead dries out, it becomes tight and loses its ability to produce that vibrant, resonant sound we all love. Oiling your drum helps maintain its flexibility, allowing it to adapt to changing temperatures and humidity levels.

Furthermore, drums are constantly vibrating when played, and it's the oils within the skin that enable these vibrations, creating the unique drum sound that carries us into the otherworlds of our journeys. Over time, these oils diminish. The first loss occurs during the drum's birthing process when it's soaked in water. Subsequent losses happen through its regular use, especially when drums are exposed to sunny days or transported in bags.

Horse Drum before oiling - clear dry marks on the side of the drum

When Should You Oil Your Drums

So, when should you oil your drums? Ideally, drum oiling should be a part of your annual drum care routine. Spring is an excellent time for this because you're transitioning from colder weather to warmer conditions. Ensuring your drumhead remains in good condition as it adjusts to temperature changes is essential.

Horse Drum after oiling - brought back to life!

Many drummers also find themselves playing more in the summer, attending festivals and outdoor events. In such cases, preparing your drum for increased use during this season by oiling it is a wise move.

Additionally, keep an eye on your drum's condition. If you notice patches that appear overly dry or areas where the color has faded, it's a clear sign that your drum needs some attention. Neglecting these signs can lead to weak spots in your drumhead, making it susceptible to tears and damage.

How to Properly Oil Your Drums

Now that you understand why and when to oil your drums, let's talk about the 'how.' Here's a step-by-step guide to oiling your drums effectively:

1. Choose the Right Location: Find a shaded, cool area to work on your drum - I often say indoors is best. Avoid direct sunlight or excessive heat, as this can affect the process.

2. Prepare the Drum: Lay out a towel to protect the surface, and place your drum on it.

3. Use the Right Oil: Select an appropriate oil, such as olive oil, shea butter, or neatsfoot oil. Clear and light oils are preferable, especially if you want to maintain your drum's colour and pattern. I generally work on the principle of “if it is suitable for your own skin, it will be suitable for the drum”. If it is an oil meant for staining decking, then avoid it.

4. Apply the Oil: Pour a small amount of oil onto your hands or a cloth and rub it evenly onto the drumhead and lacing and handle. Be sure to cover the entire surface, including the sides, corners, and lacing areas.

5. Check for Dry Spots: Pay special attention to areas that appear excessively dry or have lost their colour vibrancy. These areas may require extra oil.

6. Wait and Absorb: After applying the oil, allow it to sit in a cool place, out of direct sunlight or heat, for two to three days. This should give your drum ample time to absorb the oil.

7. Remove Excess Oil: After the waiting period, check for any excess oil on the surface that hasn’t been absorbed. You can gently remove it with a tissue or cloth. It may then still need another day or so until it has fully absorbed the oil.

8. Enjoy Your Revitalised Drum: Once your drum has soaked up all the oil, it'll be ready to play again. You will hopefully notice a positive change in its sound and responsiveness.

Oiling your Shamanic Drum is a vital aspect of drum maintenance that helps keep your beloved instruments in top-notch condition. By understanding why, when, and how to oil your drums, you'll ensure they continue to produce the incredible sounds you love for years to come. Happy drumming!