To start we are going to cut the top the bottom and the 2 sides of the cajon.

These are cut out from 9mm or 12mm Birch laminate plywood. Two pieces 30 x 30 cm for the top and bottom and two pieces 48 x 30 cm for the sides.

It is important to make good square cuts and clean up the edges so they are smooth and true.

Any mistakes here will lead to a cajon which is twisted and unsteady on its feet.

Once this is all good the timber we need to cut a groove in the top and bottom sections of the cajon so we can make a good joint to the sides.

This is best done with a router.

Make this cut on the two opposite edges of the top and bottom on the underside.

Make sure that the router cut is smooth and sand if necessary to ensure a good surface to fix the sides to.

Once this is done we can start constructing the main body of the cajon . To do this we will use a good quality wood glue and some clamps.

I use band clamps to do this but picture frame clamps or a makeshift tourniquet it is also important to keep the sides, top and bottom of the cajon true.

Next we need to glue in some wooden blocks for reinforcement.

Cut 4 wooden blocks each measuring about 25cm long.

The blocks are glued and then I rub the blocks into the corners of the cajon until the suction makes it difficult to move them.

Once all of the gluing is all done we have to leave the cajon until the glue is properly dried .


When the glue is fully set and the clamps are removed and your cajon body is ready for the next stage.

In part two we will look at putting on the front playing surface and positioning the snare.

Before that you could give the body of the cajon a light sanding and take off any excess glue .

Also check that both the front and back rim of the cajon are smooth and even, this will ensure a good bond for the front playing surface and the back of your cajon.