Goatskin, Calfskin, & Fishskin Drum Heads

Goatskin, Calfskin & Fishskin Drum Heads Ordering

Before you order a skin drum head, please determine the actual diameter edge to edge size of the flat round skin that you need. This is how we cut all skin drum heads, except pre-mounted specialty heads or braided heads. We will attempt to choose skins for you based on the following parameters:  Thickness (thin, medium, or thick), Spine in the center, and  Color combinations.

We offer one free parameter; thereafter, each further parameter will add $2 per skin. If you do not choose a thickness, in most cases you will receive a medium. We do our best to eliminate skins that have possible defects; however, our prices are based on an "as is" basis. This means, on average, you can expect to lose one out of ten skins. Obviously the tightness during installation will alter this ratio, so figure this loss in your cost.

Goatskin Heads

Goatskin generally has a supple texture that will emphasize lower tones. If you use the skins with the hair on, the oils will still be in the skin and will add a more mellow tone, whereas, skins with the hair removed have a more crisp nature and will have sharper tones.

Calfskin Heads

Calfskin is a stronger skin and tends to emphasize sharper tones. If the drum is played with a club or mallet, we can offer extra-thick calfskin, which is twice as thick as goatskin or half as thick as conga heads. This will minimize head breakage. Extra-thin calfskin is generally preferred when replacing banjo heads.

Fishskin Heads

Fishskin is the most delicate and responsive of all natural drum heads. Unfortunately, it is also very weather sensitive. If you live in the desert it's fine, but if you don't, you'll need to carry a hair dryer with you. Sizes are available from 10" to a maximum of 15", but the 15" size is very rare. The surface bumps should be sanded off during installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. My drum with a natural skin head is loose.  How do I fix it?

My drum with a natural skin head is loose.  How do I fix it?

Place a damp cloth on the center of the head for 15 minutes.  Be careful not to get the edges wet.  Allow the head to dry naturally, usually in 24 hours.  This will rejuvenate the head.

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