Only one artisan makes “trong boi” in Bao Dap village

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Located in the northern province of Nam Dinh, Bao Dap village is renowned for making the ‘trong boi’ or paper drums.

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The toy has long been hugely popular among children when national festivals, especially the Autumn Festival or Full-Moon Festival that falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, are in full swing.

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In the past, the craft created the village's primary source of income as the toy is used by children during festivals taking place all year round, including the Mid-Autumn festival.

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However, the import of flashy toys over recent years has dealt a heavy blow to the traditional business in the village. Local craftsmen turn to making star-shaped lanterns for the Mid-Autumn Festival because they are typically easier to sell.

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Despite enduring plenty of ups and downs, Nguyen Van Huong, 62, still continues to pursue the trade.

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Just like other traditional toys, the trong boi represents a modest and beautiful item. The materials are cheap and easy to find, such as clay, bamboo splints, plastic sticks, and paper.

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The artisan says he collects clay in the morning and makes small circular frames before drying them until they becomes hard like bricks.

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The frames are then covered by pink or red paper with rice glue. The most important part of the process is to ensure that there are no gaps between the paper and the frames.

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A drumstick made from bamboo only slightly bigger than a toothpick is tied to the tiny double-faced drum and the handle. When the handle is rotated, the drumstick then beats onto the drum skin.