The holiday season is a time for connection, warmth, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. Our family’s absolute favorite Christmas activity, one that guarantees laughter and festive cheer, is playing our handmade Christmas pipe bells. These aren’t just any ordinary bells; they’re a gift that has brought our family countless moments of joy and unforgettable memories. Year after year, the sound of these chimes fills our home with the spirit of Christmas.
If you’re looking to inject some truly epic Christmas cheer into your next holiday gathering, or perhaps start a new family tradition, then look no further! This guide will walk you through the process of creating your very own set of Christmas pipe bells. Get ready to craft some musical magic and spread the joy of the season with this unique and engaging DIY project.
Materials You’ll Need to Build Your Christmas Pipe Bells
Before we dive into the construction process, let’s gather the essential materials. This project is relatively simple and uses readily available items, making it accessible for crafters of all skill levels. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure you have everything you need to create your own set of delightful Christmas pipe bells:
- Electrical Conduit (8 feet of 1/2 inch): This will form the body of your bells. You can find this at most local home improvement stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot. Ensure it’s the 1/2 inch size for the best sound.
- Pipe Cutter or Miter Saw with Metal Cutting Blade: You’ll need this to accurately cut the conduit into the specified lengths. A pipe cutter is inexpensive and easy to use, especially if you don’t already own a saw. A miter saw with a metal cutting blade is faster if you have one available.
- The Measurement List: Crucial for determining the length of each pipe to achieve the correct musical notes. Download the measurement list here.
- Measuring Tape: Precision is key! A reliable measuring tape will ensure accurate cuts.
- 1/8 inch Metal Boring Drill Bit: This drill bit size is ideal for creating clean holes for the twine.
- String or Twine: Used to suspend the bells. Choose a sturdy material that can hold the weight of the pipes.
- Dry Erase Marker: Perfect for temporarily labeling the pipes with their corresponding numbers.
- Washi Tape (Christmas Colors): Adds a festive touch and allows for customization. Opt for classic Christmas colors like red, green, and gold. Consider red washi tape.
- Number Stickers: Clearly label each pipe with its corresponding number, making it easier to play the correct notes. Small number stickers work best.
- Printable Music: Essential for playing your pipe bells! Download and print some Christmas sheet music adapted for pipe bells.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Christmas Pipe Bells
Now that you have all your materials ready, let’s move on to the exciting part: building your Christmas pipe bells. Follow these simple steps to create a musical instrument that will bring joy to your holiday season.
Step 1: Prepare and Cut the Pipes
Begin by printing out the measurement list. This list contains the precise lengths to which you’ll need to cut each pipe. Using your measuring tape and dry erase marker, carefully measure and mark each pipe according to the list. Accuracy is crucial here, as even slight variations in length can affect the pitch of the bell.
Once you’ve marked all the pipes, use your pipe cutter or miter saw to cut them to the correct lengths. If using a pipe cutter, simply clamp it onto the pipe at the marked location and rotate it until it cuts all the way through. If using a miter saw, ensure you have a metal-cutting blade installed and make clean, straight cuts.
After cutting each pipe, use the dry erase marker to number them according to the measurement list. This is extremely important because the order of the pipes corresponds to the musical notes. For example, pipe #1 will be a specific note, and pipe #2 will be another note. Keeping them in order is vital for playing the bells correctly.
Here are my pipes, neatly arranged in order. Notice that the lower the number, the longer the pipe. The pipes I used are standard electrical conduit, which has a slightly industrial look. You can easily remove the blue lettering with a cleaner or by sanding it down a bit, if you prefer a cleaner look. I personally chose to leave it as is for a rustic feel.
Important Note: Avoid the temptation to spray paint the pipes. While it might seem like a good way to add color, it can significantly affect the sound quality of the bells. Also, while copper pipes would be beautiful, electrical conduit offers a better chime and is more budget-friendly.
These pipe bells are not just fun to play; they also make a unique and attractive Christmas decoration. Set them out on a table or shelf to add a touch of musical whimsy to your holiday decor. But the real fun, of course, is playing the chimes with family and friends!
Step 2: Drill the Holes
Next, you’ll need to drill a hole through both sides of each pipe. The hole should be approximately 1/4 inch below the top of the pipe. This is where you’ll thread the twine to hang the bells.
This step can be a little tricky, so it’s helpful to have someone hold the pipe steady while you drill. Use your 1/8 inch metal boring drill bit to create clean, consistent holes. Drill straight through both sides of the pipe in one go to ensure the holes are aligned.
Each pipe should now have two holes, one on each side, ready for the twine. Drilling straight through both sides at once is the easiest way to ensure proper alignment.
Step 3: Add Washi Tape
Now it’s time to add some festive flair! Wrap each bell with your Christmas-colored washi tape. This not only adds a decorative touch but also provides a smooth surface for the number stickers.
Start by aligning the end of the tape with the top of the pipe and carefully wrap it around, overlapping slightly with each turn. Smooth out any air bubbles as you go to ensure a clean, professional finish. Feel free to use different colors or patterns of washi tape to create a unique look for each bell.
Step 4: Apply Number Stickers
Place the sticker with the pipe’s assigned number on top of the washi tape. Position the sticker so it’s easily visible when the bells are hanging. This will make it easier to identify the correct bell when playing your chosen Christmas tunes.
Step 5: Thread the Twine
Thread a length of twine through the holes on each bell. Tie the ends of the twine together to create a loop for hanging. Make sure the loop is long enough to allow the bell to swing freely when struck.
Step 6: Print Your Music and Play!
Download and print your sheet music designed specifically for pipe bells. Now your bells are ready to play! Gather your family and friends, grab some spoons, and get ready to make some musical memories.
How to Play Your Christmas Pipe Bells
Playing the Christmas pipe bells is simple and fun, even for those with no musical experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Gather Spoons and Bells: Grab some metal spoons (one for each player) and distribute a bell to each participant. Spoons work well as strikers, but you can also use large metal nails. However, for safety, especially with young children, spoons are the preferred option.
- Distribute Music: Pass out the printed sheet music to everyone. The music will indicate which bells are needed for each song.
- Assign Bells: Give each person in the circle a bell. The music will list the specific bell numbers required for the song.
- Hold the Bell and Spoon: Hold the bell by the twine in one hand and the spoon in the other.
- Play by Numbers: The music is written using numbers instead of musical notes, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of musical ability. When the number corresponding to your bell appears in the music, strike your bell with your spoon.
The chimes also make a pretty decoration, ready for your Christmas party.
I can’t remember a Christmas where we’ve laughed harder than when we’re playing these bells. It’s hilarious to see who has a natural musical talent, who is musically challenged, and who marches to the beat of their own drum (or, in this case, chimes their own chime!). Don’t be afraid to laugh, have fun, and cheer loudly when you manage to make it through a song together.
These DIY Christmas pipe bells also make wonderful and unique gifts to surprise your friends with when you go to their Christmas parties. They’re a conversation starter, a fun activity, and a heartfelt gesture all rolled into one. So, gather your materials, follow the steps, and get ready to create some musical magic this holiday season. Have fun!