How to Start Making Native American Style Flutes at Home

Many people ask us, “How do I start making Native American flutes at home?” The truth is, Native American-style flute making isn’t rocket science - as I always say - but there are essential skills, concepts, and techniques needed to do it well.

After more than 38 years of making flutes, I’ve compiled a tremendous amount of knowledge through our videos, this website, and a dedicated flute-making book that walks you through the process step by step. Along the way, you’ll learn not only how to make a flute, but also why certain designs work, how tuning is achieved, how the sound mechanism functions, and what gives each flute its unique voice and personality.

Our YouTube channel contains countless tutorials covering Native American flute making for beginners and experienced builders alike. We discuss everything from basic tools and wood selection to tuning methods, sound chamber design, voicing, hole placement, and even experimental builds using modern materials like PVC and 3D printing. Many people are surprised to discover how approachable flute making can become once the core concepts are understood.

Feel free to browse the videos and resources throughout the site, and although we can’t always respond to every message immediately, you are always welcome to reach out with your questions.

Below on this page, you’ll find helpful tools, supplies, and kits for building your own Native American-style flutes at home, along with some of our Simple Traditions Flutes that make excellent learning and reference models. We’ve also included a few extras such as our Blue Bear Flutes T-shirt if you’d like to support what we do, and our mini amp in case your very first flute turns out so well you want the whole world to hear it!