You may use a recycled paper towel roll, chip canister, or gift wrap tube. [1] X Research source You may buy a cardboard shipping tube from the post office, an office supply store, or a shipping center. [2] X Research source

Place one end of the tube flat on a piece of construction paper. With a pencil, trace the end of the tube onto the paper. Draw a second circle around the first circle. The two circles should be approximately ½ inch apart. Draw 6 to 12 spokes between the two circles. You will use the spokes to attach the cap to the cardboard tube. Cut along the edge of the second circle. Cut along each spoke line. Repeat. [3] X Research source

Rice Dried beans Corn Kernels Small pastas Beads[5] X Research source

You may insert as many nails as you would like. For decoration, use a patterned or colored duct tape. Using different sized nails will create an interesting sound![6] X Research source

If you want to decorate the tube, do so before you insert the toothpicks. Use a sewing needle or push pin to poke holes at random intervals into the side of the tube. You will need to create between 80 and 100 holes. Insert a toothpick through one hole and out another. The tips of the toothpick should remain on the outside of the tube. Repeat 39 to 49 times, altering the angle of each toothpick. Coat both ends of each toothpick with a dab of glue. Once the glue is dry, cut off the pointed ends with a pair of cutting pliers. [7] X Research source

After you cap one end of the tube, you will insert the aluminum foil springs. [8] X Research source

If your tube came with caps, insert one into the tube. You may reinforce the cap with duct tape or rubber bands. [10] X Research source

If you chose to use aluminum foil, insert it into the tube before you pour in the filler.

Adding more filler Removing some of the filler Trying a different material[11] X Research source

When the glue is dry, it will no longer feel tacky to the touch. See the packaging for specific curing instructions. You may reinforce both caps with duct tape or rubber bands. [13] X Research source