After finalizing my design sketches, I created an initial foam prototype to explore the shape and take precise measurements. Next, I crafted a wooden prototype to better understand the form and scale. I researched existing tongue drums, testing different tongue shapes on both wood and metal instruments. Using these insights, I designed my own brass tongue stencil and carefully sawed the tongues from a brass sheet, along with top and bottom brass pieces for assembly.

For the body, I selected a plank of Padauk wood and CNC-cut it according to my precise measurements to ensure accuracy. I then routed the edges to create angled joints that fit flush together. To honor the cultural inspiration, I laser-etched Aztec symbols onto the wood surface. Small internal grooves were made to hold the brass sheet securely, and finally, I carefully assembled and bonded all components using epoxy, creating a harmonious blend of wood and metal in both form and sound.