Rattle Making - With Terry Francis & Jennifer Kleinsteuber

Join us for a hands-on, two-day workshop where you will create your own hand rattle from natural materials. This experience invites you to slow down, work with your hands, and connect with the creative and cultural significance of making your own instrument.

The workshop will take place:

Saturday, May 23 from 2:00–5:00 PM

Sunday, May 24 from 2:00–5:00 PM

Through a guided, step-by-step process, participants will craft a personal rattle using natural hides, wood, and decorative elements. Rattles have long been used in ceremony, healing, and personal practice across many cultures around the world. They are often used to create rhythm, support song and prayer, and strengthen connection to tradition, community, and spirit. Throughout the workshop, cultural teachings about the meaning, significance, and use of rattles will be shared by Coast Salish Healer Terry Francis, offering deeper understanding and context to the making process.

No previous experience is required. This experience is not about perfection or artistic skill. It is about process, connection, and creating something meaningful with your own hands.

All supplies will be provided.

Day 1 – Forming the Rattle Shaker
Participants will work with soaked rawhide skins, shaping and filling them to form the rattle shaker. The skins will be carefully tied and formed so they can dry overnight and hold their shape. During this time, Terry will share cultural teachings about the role of rattles in ceremony and healing practices.

Day 2 – Assembling and Decorating
Once the rattle shakers have dried, participants will attach them to wooden handles. You will then fill the inside with natural materials such as pebbles or seeds to create the sound of your rattle. The rattle will be secured and wrapped with leather, and you will have time to decorate it using paints, beads, feathers, and other materials to make it uniquely your own. Cultural teachings and stories about the significance and respectful use of rattles will continue to be shared throughout the process.

Participants often experience a sense of grounding and connection through working with natural materials and hands-on creative practice. You may leave with:

• A handcrafted rattle created by you
• A deeper appreciation for cultural teachings and craft
• A calming and mindful creative experience
• A meaningful object you can keep for personal reflection, ceremony, or sound meditation

All supplies and materials will be provided.

Terry Francis is Coast Salish from the Sto:Lo Territory. A Cultural Advisor and Traditional Healer, Terry enriches our programs by sharing cultural teachings and guiding participants through knowledge connected to the rattle and its uses.

Jennifer Kleinsteuber holds a Diploma in Art Therapy from the Vancouver Art Therapy Institute. She creates safe, supportive spaces for self-exploration, emotional expression, and personal growth through creativity.

Together, they create welcoming, respectful spaces where participants of all experience levels can engage in creative and meaningful experiences.

Come as you are. Work with your hands. Create with intention. Leave with a rattle that carries your own spirit and story.

Info: Brief welcome, introduction to the facilitators, the afternoon’s workshop, overview of available materials, and gentle guidance to help participants settle in and begin.

Info: DAY 1
Participants will work with soaked rawhide skins, shaping and filling them to form the rattle shaker. The skins will be carefully tied and formed so they can dry overnight and hold their shape. During this time, Terry will share cultural teachings about the role of rattles in ceremony and healing practices.

Info: Time to reflect on your process, view others’ work, share insights if desired, and close the afternoon together. Final half hour reserved for clean up.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

1089 W Broadway, 1089 West Broadway, Vancouver, Canada

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