Homemade Musical Instruments Tambourines You will need a heavy paper plate or two thin plates pasted together; a few jingle bells, yarn, and a hole punch. Punch holes around the outer circle of the plate. Tie yarn to the bells, then securely fasten through the plate holes. Be aware of a possible choke hazard for young children, and only use with adult supervision. Drum Make drums from old oatmeal boxes or coffee cans. Rattles & Shakers- Use old dish washing liquid bottles. Fill slightly with rice, seeds, or sand. Secure tightly. Decorate with contact paper or magazine clippings. Sand Blocks