Bullroarers are a ceremonial noisemaker, toy and signaling device. They are native to many parts of the world, including Australia, Scandinavia, Mali, the British Isles, and all over the Americas. Bullroarers make a distinct, low-pitched sound that can travel for long distances. Above all, they are interesting and fun to use!





Make sure to post pictures of your finished bullroarers!







Here are my answers to the Make-to-Learn contest questions:



What did I make?

A bullroarer! How they work: As they rotate around you, they also rotate on the string; this in turn vibrates the air, producing sound. Tools I used: a hatchet and mallet, drawknife, a hair-dryer, and my pocketknife. Materials: a piece of cedar, jute twine and some beeswax.



How did I make it?

I first learned of them when my assistant scoutmaster brought one of his to an event. I then decided to make one. I make them on my own. In this case I was making it for someone else, to be shaped similarly to one I had already made, so it stayed the same.



Where did I make it?

I made it at home in my garage workshop. I made this one for someone in my scout troop.



What did I learn?

I learned that I need to make future bullroarers heavier. There weren’t any challenges or surprises. I like the beeswax finish on the cedar wood. When I make another one, I will make it a bit heavier.