Tube

• The first element in making a rainstick is some kind of tube. For kids' rainstick crafts, empty cardboard tubes from paper towels or wrapping paper are a readily available option. For something sturdier, you can use a mailing tube or a length of PVC pipe. You can decorate the tube, if desired.
  
  

Spines

• There must be something inside the tube to slow the progress of the dried materials you will be putting into it and to give them something to bounce off for maximum sound effects. You can push toothpicks, pins or nails into the sides of the rainstick for this purpose. Glue them in place to secure them.
  
  

Dried Filling

• The rain sounds are made by small, dry objects falling through the tube when it is tilted. Some possible things you can use are dried rice, beans, gravel or unpopped popcorn. Don't put in too much; you want the pieces to fall loosely through the rain stick. Cover one end with fabric or paper and secure it with a rubber band or tape. Pour in the dried filling and cover the other side. Test the rainstick, removing or adding filling as necessary, until you like the sound. When you are satisfied, you can secure the cover on the second side.