Mali Weave (Tuning)

I use two different variations of the mali weave. One crosses the rope over to form diamonds and the other crosses the rope under. The variation I use for Djembe’s is the Over method. This is less abrasive on the rope and does not scuff the drum body. The verticals should lay tightly against the drum body for this method to work properly. If they are away from the body the under method is a better choice.

Mali Weave Over

First pass the rope under the next two verticals. (1-2)

Then pass the rope over the second and back under the first.

Pass the rope over 1-2 and under the next two verticals and pull.

Pulling the rope under the next two verticals locks the diamond in place and also completes the first half of the next. This method works best on Djembe’s because the verticals are usually snug against the body of the drum in the lower area. It is easier to remove the diamonds when necessary and is not as hard on the rope or surface of the drum as the under method.

Mali Weave Under

Mali Under

First pass the rope over the next two verticals. (1-2)

Then pass the rope back under the second (2) and back over the first.

Pass the rope back under both (1-2) and pull.

This method works best on Ashiko’s and other drums where the verticals are not tight against the body of the drum. By pulling the crossover under rather than over the diamond it is automatically locked in place.

If the verticals are tight against the body of the drum this method can scuff the finish of the drum. On softer types of wood like Tweneboa it can dent the drum body.

Both methods can be used on a single drum. The over method when the verticals are tight against the body and then switching to the under method when you start to move closer to the upper rings where the verticals are usually not as close to the body.

Wind the rope end three or four times around a short stick or purchase a rope pulling device. (See Below) While seated on the floor brace the djembe with your feet and pull the rope toward you and slightly downwards, Try to keep the row horizontal. The closer you stay to the bottom ring, the tighter the verticals will be. You can move the rope up higher if the verticals are becoming tight too quickly.

Many music stores that sell rope tuned drums will have them.

Most Boating/Windsurfing shops will carry them.

EBay has everything so you can find them there as well.