How to make a tombola drum
Are you planning to host a event or a party, and want to add some excitement with a tombola drum? Look no further! Creating your own tombola drum is easier than you think. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making a tombola drum from scratch.
A tombola drum, also known as a raffle drum, is used to generate suspense and excitement by randomly selecting tickets or numbers. It is commonly used in charity events, parties, and fundraisers. By building your own tombola drum, you can customize it to fit your needs and ensure that your event stands out.
To make a tombola drum, you will need a few materials and tools. Don’t worry, they are all easily obtainable and budget-friendly. The main components include a barrel, which will hold the tickets, a rotating base, a handle for spinning the drum, and decorations to personalize the drum. The materials can be found at your local hardware store or repurposed from items you may already have at home.
Step-by-step guide to building a tombola drum
Building your own tombola drum can be a fun and rewarding project. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create your very own drum for your game of chance!
Materials you will need:
- A large cardboard cylinder
- A motor
- A wooden base
- A switch
- Bingo balls or small balls with numbers
Instructions:
- Take the large cardboard cylinder and measure it to fit your desired size for the tombola drum. Trim it if necessary.
- Create a wooden base that will securely hold the cylinder. It should be larger than the diameter of the cylinder to provide stability.
- Attach the motor to the base. Make sure it is securely fastened.
- Place the cardboard cylinder on top of the motor shaft. Ensure that it fits snugly.
- Attach a switch to control the motor’s on/off function. Drill a hole in the wooden base to accommodate the switch.
- Add a hinged door or lid on the side of the cylinder to easily insert and remove the bingo balls or small numbered balls.
- Decorate the drum to your liking. You can use paint, stickers, or any other decorative materials you prefer.
- Test the motor and switch to ensure they are working properly before using the drum for your game.
Once you have completed these steps, you will have your very own homemade tombola drum. Enjoy using it for your games and events!
| Materials | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large cardboard cylinder | 1 |
| Motor | 1 |
| Wooden base | 1 |
| Switch | 1 |
| Bingo balls or small balls with numbers | As needed |
Selecting the right materials for your drum
When making a tombola drum, it is important to choose the right materials to ensure its durability and functionality. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the materials for your drum:
1. Drum Box:
The drum box is a crucial component of the tombola drum as it holds the raffle tickets and allows for easy mixing. It is recommended to use a sturdy cardboard box that is at least 40 cm in diameter and 30 cm in height. This size provides enough space for the tickets to move freely and allows for smooth rotation when the drum is spun.
2. Rotating Mechanism:
To enable smooth rotation of the drum, a rotating mechanism must be attached. This can be achieved by using a lazy Susan or a bearing. Lazy Susans are easily available and can be mounted on the bottom of the drum box using screws or adhesive. Bearings are more durable but may require some woodworking skills to install properly. Whether you choose a lazy Susan or a bearing, make sure it can support the weight of the drum and tickets and rotate smoothly.
3. Raffle Tickets:
The type of raffle tickets you use can greatly affect the functioning of the tombola drum. It is advisable to use tickets that are lightweight and easy to handle, such as perforated paper tickets or plastic tokens. Avoid using heavy or bulky materials that can jam or hinder the drum’s rotation.
4. Decoration:
While not necessary for the drum’s functionality, adding some decorative elements can enhance its visual appeal. Consider using colourful wrapping paper or adhesive vinyl to cover the drum box. You can also add stickers or paint patterns to make it more eye-catching. Just ensure that the decorations do not obstruct the rotation or interfere with the drum’s operation.
5. Latching Mechanism:
To secure the drum during the raffle and prevent accidental opening, a latching mechanism is essential. This can be achieved by adding hinges to the drum box and attaching a latch or lock. Make sure the latch is easy to open and close but provides a strong and secure hold when locked.
Selecting the right materials is vital in making a functional and visually appealing tombola drum. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can ensure that your drum is durable, easy to use, and enhances your overall raffle experience.
Constructing the body of the drum
To create the body of the tombola drum, you will need a large cardboard box or cylinder. Measure and mark the desired height for your drum on the box or cylinder using a ruler and pencil. Cut the excess cardboard if necessary to achieve the desired height.
Next, you will need to create the drum frame. Cut a circular piece of cardboard or wood that will serve as the top of the drum. This can be done by tracing the circumference of the box or cylinder onto the material and cutting along the markings.
For added stability, cut cardboard or wood strips that are the same height as the drum and secure them to the inside edges of the box or cylinder using strong adhesive or tape. These strips will act as support for the drum frame.
Once the frame is complete, it’s time to cover the drum body. Starting at the bottom, wrap the entire drum with a decorative fabric or paper, using strong adhesive or tape to secure it in place. This will give your tombola drum a polished and professional appearance.
Finally, add any additional decorations or embellishments to personalize your tombola drum. This could include ribbons, bows, or painted designs on the fabric or paper covering. Get creative and make the drum uniquely yours!
Note: It’s important to make sure the drum is sturdy and secure before using it for any tombola events. Double-check all adhesive and tape for strong, reliable hold.
Now that you have constructed the body of the drum, the next step is to create the rotating mechanism inside the drum.
Additions and finishing touches
Once you have built the basic structure of your tombola drum, you can also consider adding some extra features to enhance its functionality and appearance. Here are some suggestions:
A clear, removable lid:
Adding a clear lid made of acrylic or glass will allow participants to see the contents of the drum without opening it. It will also help prevent any items from falling out during the rotation.
A locking mechanism:
If you want to ensure the security of the drum, you can install a locking mechanism. This will prevent anyone from tampering with the contents or accessing them without permission.
Decorative elements:
Consider giving your tombola drum a unique and eye-catching design by adding decorative elements. You could paint it in vibrant colors or use stickers, ribbons, or other embellishments to make it stand out.
Numbered compartments:
If you are organizing a tombola with numbered prizes, you can add compartments inside the drum, each labeled with a number. This will make it easier for participants to locate their prize once the draw is complete.
Remember to test your tombola drum before using it to ensure that it rotates smoothly and properly mixes the contents. You can conduct a trial run by placing numbered balls or other small objects inside and spinning the drum to see how well they mix. Adjustments may be required to improve its performance.
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