How to Build a Rubber Band Guitar

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

1. Prepare your sound box. If your box doesn't have an opening, ask a grown-up to help you cut a hole in the center of the top. This hole lets the sound travel out so your guitar is nice and loud.
2. Stretch the strings. Stretch your rubber bands around the box so they go across the hole. Use different thicknesses of rubber bands to get different sounds.
3. Add the bridges. Slide one pencil or craft stick under the rubber bands on one side of the hole, and the second pencil under the bands on the other side. This lifts the strings off the cardboard so they can vibrate freely.
4. Secure your work. Use a piece of tape on each end of the pencils to keep them from sliding off while you play.