Limberjacks, Spoons, and Bones

Limberjacks appeal to the child in us at any age. Often used in storytelling and among student settings, the limberjack is a replica of handcarved toys that probably originated Europe several hundred years ago.  Brought to America by early settlers it has taken on an Americana flavor.  It has gone by a variety of names such as paddle puppet, jigger, shuffling sam, stepping sam and clogger.  Indeed a clog dancer is what the limberjack imitates when he is made to dance.  His arms swing wildly and his feet clop against the paddle. 

To make him dance, you need to be seated.  Tuck the paddle partly under your hip. The limberjack is suspended from a stick and held over the paddle. You tap the paddle and when it bounces up to hit his feet you create the clacking sound. With practice, you can dance him to the rhythm of music by shaking him down on the beat so his feet will click on the correct time.

Sold undecorated in walnut or cherry. They can be hand painted to reflect male or female characters. Includes limberjack, stick, paddle, and instructions.

Spoons
Handmade musical spoons are a solid wood percussion instrument. They are played by rhythmically tapping between your thigh (or any body part) and hand. These spoons are joined to make playing easier since they won't slip from your fingers.

9 1/2" long.  In cherry, walnut, or a walnut/ash combo. There is little difference in tone between the woods. Instruction sheet included.

Bones
Handmade musical bones are a solid wood rythym instrument.  Two bones are held in one hand and made to strike each other in a way to make a click-it-y sound. Experienced players often use a pair of bones in each hand.

Sold as a set of 2 bones. Instruction sheet included. 7 3/4 to 8 inches long and 3/4 inch wide. In walnut or ash.