A rainstick is a long, hollow percussion instrument traditionally made from dried cactus, bamboo, or wood, filled with small materials like pebbles or seeds. When tilted, the contents cascade over internal obstacles such as pins or thorns, creating a soothing sound reminiscent of falling rain. Commonly used in meditation, relaxation, and music therapy, rainsticks are also employed in world music and sound healing sessions. They are popular among musicians, wellness practitioners, and educators. Rainsticks are especially associated with South American cultures, notably Chile and Peru, where they are believed to have ceremonial and spiritual uses.
History of Rainstick
The rainstick is believed to have originated with the Mapuche people of Chile, who crafted them from dried cactus tubes with thorns driven inward, filled with small stones or seeds. Traditionally, they were used in rituals intended to invoke rain during droughts, connecting sound with natural forces. Over time, the instrument spread throughout the Andes region and beyond, gaining recognition for both its musical and meditative qualities. Though exact dates are unclear, its use dates back centuries and has since been adapted by cultures around the world, evolving into a tool for music, education, and wellness.
Types of Rainstick
Rainsticks come in various lengths and materials, each offering different sound durations and tonal qualities. Common types include bamboo rainsticks (lighter with a crisp sound), cactus rainsticks (earthy tone and often handmade), and synthetic or plastic versions (durable and used in classrooms or performances). Some are decorated with carvings or indigenous patterns, while others include added features like grip handles or loop cords for hanging. Longer rainsticks create extended rainfall effects, while shorter ones offer quicker, sharper sounds. Each variety brings its own atmosphere, making the rainstick a unique and expressive percussion instrument.
Bajawa Rainstick
★★★★★ - “I bought this item as gift. Was very impressed with the craftsmanship. It is nothing short of a musical piece of art”. - Verified Buyer
The Bajawa Rainstick is a beautifully hand-painted bamboo instrument from Indonesia, featuring a dotted tribal design that captures a rustic, natural charm. When gently tilted, the stones inside fall and create a calming rain-like sound, echoing its traditional use in rain-invoking rituals.
Each piece is handmade and unique in shape, size, and colour, with some coated in a non-toxic varnish for a polished, protective finish. Eco-friendly and artistic, it makes a thoughtful gift for music lovers or anyone drawn to meditative soundscapes. Available in assorted 30cm or 60cm sizes, it’s both a functional instrument and a cultural display piece.
Purchase the Bajawa Rainstick Here.
Painted Peruvian Rainstick
★★★★★ - “Gorgeous item. Great price, quality products and beautiful sounds. Thank you”. - Verified Buyer
This uniquely handcrafted Peruvian rainstick shaker stands out from typical designs by being made of sustainable bamboo instead of cactus. Sourced from the region near Cusco, the former Inca capital, each piece is hand-painted in vibrant geometric patterns, making every instrument one of a kind in colour, size, and design. At just 22 cm tall and weighing 140g, it’s a lightweight, fair trade instrument that’s eco-friendly, fun to play, and a meaningful gift for any music lover.
Purchase the Painted Peruvian Rainstick Here.
Bamboo Rainstick 40cm
★★★★★ - “Met expectations. Product arrived in good condition and was as pictured and described. A good price for the size and quality of the rainstick”. - Verified Buyer
This 40cm bamboo rainstick from Bali, Indonesia, is hand-painted with intricate dot designs and creates soothing rain-like sounds when tilted—perfect for relaxation, sensory play, or musical exploration. Made from sustainable bamboo, each piece is lightweight, durable, and uniquely crafted in assorted multicoloured patterns, offering both beauty and calming sound in one eco-friendly instrument.
Purchase the Bamboo Rainstick 40cm Here.
Tips for Choosing the Right Rainstick
When choosing a rainstick, consider the material (bamboo and cactus are common), length, and craftsmanship. Longer rainsticks tend to produce longer, more sustained rainfall sounds, while shorter ones are ideal for quick bursts or portability. Look for sustainably made and fair-trade options if ethical sourcing matters to you.
Rainsticks are suitable for musicians, meditation practitioners, sound therapists, and anyone drawn to nature-inspired instruments or calming sound effects. Beginners may prefer smaller, lighter rainsticks, while collectors or sound designers might opt for hand-painted, artisan-crafted designs for both sound and display value.
The Pros and Cons of Buying a Second-Hand Rainstick
Second-hand rainsticks can be budget-friendly and carry a sense of history or character, especially if they're handmade or vintage. However, quality may vary—internal tines might be damaged, or the shell could have unseen cracks that affect sound. New rainsticks, particularly handmade ones from bamboo or other sustainable materials, offer reliability, ethical production, and often better acoustics. If you value craftsmanship, consistency, and durability, investing in a new handmade rainstick is a wise choice, but if you're just experimenting, a second-hand one could be a low-risk starting point.
Unique Rainstick Accessories
You can improve your rainstick experience with key accessories like padded carrying cases for safe transport, elegant display stands to showcase your instrument, and wood-safe oils to maintain bamboo or cactus varieties. For performers and recording artists, mic mounts help capture the sound perfectly, while pairing your rainstick with shakers or chimes.
Rainstick in Popular Music
Rainsticks are commonly featured in ambient, world, folk, and new age music due to their calming, nature-like sound. They've appeared in film scores and therapeutic soundtracks, offering a soothing backdrop. Notable artists like Peter Gabriel and Enya have incorporated rainsticks for texture and atmosphere in their recordings. The instrument’s soft cascading sound makes it ideal for intros, interludes, or meditative segments in a variety of genres, and its versatility continues to appeal to musicians seeking organic, earthy tones.
