Make Your Own Cymbal
This unique experience is the perfect gift for drummers.
Contact me with any questions or check the FAQs 👇
Based in Bristol, UK.
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Frequently asked questions
What does the session consist of?
Join Dave Collingwood, one of the world's leading independent cymbalsmiths, for a relaxed session learning to make a cymbal by hand.
At his large, comfortable workshop in Bristol, you'll be guided through hand-hammering a raw bronze cymbal blank into shape, ready to go to the custom-built cymbal lathe to get the instrument shining and singing.
No experience necessary, Dave will demonstrate and help you walk away with a beautiful, professional-quality cymbal, made from the finest Turkish B20 cymbal bronze.
Plenty of time for questions and breaks, the session is tailored to you and your preferred way to work and learn.
Will my cymbal be any good?
Yes! Participants are always very pleasantly surprised at the outcome - a fully handmade, professional level cymbal made from the finest material.
When purchased, what do I receive?
When purchasing a full session, you receive an A5 PDF voucher to print or forward by email. The voucher includes a QR code and my contact details.
When purchasing a gift card, you receive an email with a unique code for use when purchasing a full session. Codes can be combined using multiple gift cards.
I'm happy to prepare personalised vouchers, contact me to discuss.
How do I book?
The voucher you'll receive when a session is booked contains a QR code and my contact details. The participant can message me any time and we'll find a suitable time to run the session.
Why the jump in price between crashes and rides?
Price is calculated based on diameter and weight of the cymbal blank I need to order. Smaller blanks (14", 16", 18") tend to require a lighter starting point, whereas bigger (20", 22") need to start heavier in the raw state to achieve characteristics of a ride cymbal.
Can I make a size / style other than those listed?
Absolutely, contact me to discuss making any different size and/or style of cymbal. Want to make more than one? A whole set? No problem.
Can I bring cymbals I already own as a reference?
Absolutely, this can be very helpful when aiming for something specific.
How long is the session?
Sessions vary from 3-6 hours, depending on the size of the cymbal and how much talking and coffee-drinking happens! I aim for the following:
- 16" Crash - 3 hrs
- 18" Crash - 4 hrs
- 20" Ride - 4-5 hrs
I'm flexible and usually allow time for sessions to run over if needed. Some like to stop and ask questions, some not so much. The session is tailored to the participant.
Where is the workshop?
Kingswood, Bristol. BS15. Full address details and directions will be sent before the day of the session.
What are nearby accommodation options?
For those travelling to take part in a session, there are lots of options in central Bristol. From there it's about 20 minutes by taxi to the workshop.
Kingswood is fairly close to Bath, there are some lovely places to stay between the cities in a more rural setting close to the workshop.
I'm happy to collect and drop off from your hotel / AirBnB if logistics allow. Please contact me to discuss.
Can my family member / friend attend?
Yes, my workshop is big and comfortable and I have plenty of ear protection! I have high-speed wifi and full tea & coffee facilities.
Do I need experience or my own tools?
No! Everything is provided, including full safety equipment. I teach everything from the ground up, and tailor the session to each participant.
Can gift cards be combined?
Yes, families will very often buy several gift cards between them to give at once when gifting the experience to a loved one.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately not. Access is through an active woodworking workshop and up two flights of stairs. Please contact me to discuss any mobility issues or concerns.
Is it suitable for under 18s?
I welcome anyone of any age. For participants under the age of 18 I ask that a parent / guardian be present. The work is physical and repetitive, but it can be collaborative meaning the participant can take plenty of rest and be helped if needed.
Can I bring food / drink?
Yes, please do! I have a fridge, freezer and microwave as well as full tea & coffee facilities. I have dairy & non-dairy milk. Contact me with any dietary restrictions or concerns. Please - no alcohol.
Do you offer in-depth cymbalsmith training?
Yes. I've trained many cymbalsmiths, newbies and pros, from all over the world, and continue to do so.
- Online
- With me in Bristol
- At your premises, anywhere in the world
Contact me or head to collingwoodcymbals.com for more info.
I have a question I don't see listed!
Contact me using the form above with anything you'd like to ask.
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This was the best experience my husband had. He is a drummer and he was explained everything from start to finish. Brilliant host, relaxed environment and would definitely go back.
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Dave is an awesome instructor and it was a great way to spend a day. He was equally accommodating to me (a non-drummer) as my partner (a new excited drummer).
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Dave was a great teacher, his workshop was well equipped and safe, and the afternoon was honestly incredible.
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Had the best time learning how to make a cymbal.
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I really enjoyed this genuinely enriching experience. Dave is an excellent teacher. He is generous with his knowledge, adaptable to your level, and provides a comfortable environment to learn in.
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I couldn't recommend this more to any drummer or person interested in how cymbals are made. Dave was an incredible teacher, a fantastic host and truly fascinating! It was by far one of the most interesting days I have had this year and the cymbal I walked away with sounds unreal!
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Great experience. Dave is super knowledgeable, encouraging and patient. I learnt lots and left with a cymbal I'm very happy with. A really fun thing to do!
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Huge thanks to Dave for a fantastic afternoon! Learned so much and had a great time in the process, highly recommended!
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I had a brilliant time cymbal making with Dave; a really warm host and thoughtful instructor. Dave tried to cater to me at every opportunity whilst offering his experience. I definitely plan on booking something in with him in the near future. Thanks to Dave for a great session.
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What a great day. Dave is a great guy clearly knows his stuff and we made an excellent cymbal! Thoroughly enjoyed every minute would defo recommend.