DIY Handpan Stands: Build Your Own with Ease

The handpan, a beautifully melodic instrument, can provide an ethereal musical experience. However, to play it
comfortably and achieve the best sound quality, having a reliable stand is essential. While there are many
commercially available stands, building your own DIY handpan stand can be a rewarding and cost-effective
solution. This article will guide you through the process, ensuring you create a stand that is functional and
aesthetically pleasing.

Materials Needed

Before starting, gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list:

• Three wooden dowels or metal pipes (approximately 1 inch in diameter)
• A circular saw or a reliable hand saw
• Wood screws or metal bolts
• Drill with appropriate drill bits
• Sandpaper or a sanding block
• Varnish or paint (optional, for finishing)
• A measuring tape
• Rubber grips or foam padding

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Legs

First, determine the ideal height for your handpan stand. Most players find a height between 24 to 30 inches
comfortable, but this can vary based on personal preference and playing style.

1. Measure and mark the dowels or pipes at your desired height using the measuring tape.
2. Use the circular saw or hand saw to cut the dowels or pipes to the marked length.
3. Sand the edges to remove any splinters or rough edges.

Step 2: Constructing the Base

The base will provide stability and support for the handpan. You can opt for a tri-pod or quad-pod design, but
for simplicity, we’ll focus on a tri-pod design.

1. Arrange the three legs in a triangular formation, making sure they are equidistant from each other.
2. Drill holes at an angle where the legs will intersect. This angle should match the angle at which the legs
   will spread out.
3. Attach the legs together using wood screws or metal bolts. Ensure they are tightly secured.

Step 3: Adding the Handpan Support

Next, you’ll need to create a cross-bar that will support the handpan itself. This cross-bar needs to be sturdy
enough to hold the weight of the handpan yet flexible enough for adjustments.

1. Cut a piece of dowel or pipe long enough to span the top of the stand and provide a stable support base for
   the handpan.
2. Attach this cross-bar securely to the top of the stand using wood screws or metal bolts.
3. Ensure that the cross-bar is level and properly aligned to keep the handpan balanced.

Step 4: Adding Padding for Protection

To prevent the handpan from getting scratched or damaged, you’ll need to add some padding.

1. Cut rubber grips or foam padding to the required sizes.
2. Attach the padding to the top of the cross-bar and any other areas where the handpan might come into
   contact with the stand.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

To give your stand a polished look, you can paint or varnish the wood to your liking. This step is optional but
will enhance the aesthetic appeal of your stand.

1. If desired, apply a coat of paint or varnish to the wooden parts of the stand.
2. Allow it to dry completely before using the stand.

Conclusion

Building your own DIY handpan stand is not only a practical solution but also a fulfilling project that allows
you to tailor the stand to your individual needs. With the right materials and a bit of effort, you can create a
sturdy, reliable, and visually pleasing stand for your cherished instrument. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction
of knowing you built it yourself. So, roll up your sleeves and get started today!