There are many elements that can be stacked together to enforce or empower your intentions in your life. There are totem animals, gem stones, mineral, spirit guides, plants and herbs and so many more things that have sacred meaning to us that contribute to the alignment of our intentions with the manifestation of our intentions.
For drums there are many hides to choose from deer, elk, buffalo, horse, bear and more. Each hide has its own properties and perhaps more suitable applications. The hoops or frames can be of a range of woods lie fur, pine, birch, maple etc, once again the choice comes from what the meaning and application will be. My drum hoops are the eight-sided Heida tradition. I prefer them because of the strength and accessibility of materials to make them.
The collection of different elements is what support the building the power within the instrument and premeditates it with your intentions and prayers.
My joy comes from begin able to read the energy or vibration of the person and drawing in the aspects that supports the direction for that persons prayer.