How to Make a DIY Rubber Band Guitar

Create your own musical instrument using a recycled box and rubber bands to explore sound and vibration. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Prepare the sound box. If your box doesn't have an opening, ask a grown-up to help you cut a large rectangular hole in the top of the cardboard box. This hole lets the sound travel out so your guitar is louder.
2. Add the strings. Stretch your rubber bands around the box so they go across the open hole. Try to space them out evenly so they don't touch each other.
3. Create the bridge. Slide one pencil under the rubber bands on the left side of the hole, and the other pencil under the rubber bands on the right side. This lifts the strings off the cardboard so they can vibrate freely.