Build a Cajón

Build a cajón – a simple wooden instrument with the versatility of a drum kit! Originally from South America, particularly Perú, and derived from African wooden drums, the cajón has found its way into flamenco, rumba, folk, blues, jazz, and other musical traditions. It is a fairly simple design and easily portable.

Cajóns can be as simple as a box with a thin “tapa” face for striking, or can be customized with snares or strings, adjustable sound holes, feet, pedals or levers, decor, and more.

Class attendees will cut the basic parts, assemble the box, and attach a snare. Attendees should have taken a Mill Forge intro woodworking class or be certified on woodworking equipment. Students with some prior woodworking experience may contact info@millforge.org for other options.

This project can take longer than the allotted time, especially if customizing the design, applying a finish, or for less experienced carpenters. If students would like to return to complete the box to their liking after the 4 hour class, a day pass can be added to the class at a discounted price ($25) when signing up or on the same day as the course.