Rejuvenation

Re-Heading / Refinishing

Re-heading is where my drum making experience started. Actually since I don’t carve any of the Djembe shells, Heading/Re-heading is what I have been doing all along.

Assuming the shell is in good condition, the two most important features of a well built Djembe are the bearing edge and the fit of the rings that hold the head in place.


The bearing edge should be level and the outside radius should be rounded to accommodate the skin sliding properly over the edge of the drum as well as being comfortable to play.

The rings should fit tightly so that they do not shift or allow the skin to slip during tightening.

I exclusively use the 3 ring system because there is virtually no possibility of the skin slipping regardless of how tight the verticals are pulled. This method produces the most consistent results both in sound and stability.

Prices are as follows:
Full rework…………………………………………………………………..$150.00
This includes Oiling the shell, Re-finishing the bearing edge, 3-ring mounting, New rope.

Replace Head Only…………………………………………………………$85.00
Required: The existing rings fit properly and the rope is in good condition.

New Rings …………………………………………………………………$8.50 ea

Everything in between ……………… Contact Me for a Quote