Store-bought drum shields may not cut it for most churches. But a custom build can run thousands and blow your budget. Have no fear – production manager Joseph Cottle says DIY drum cages are totally doable. Forget complex math and fancy tools – with simple instructions for basic box and half-circle setups, Cottle guides you through sourcing cheap materials, adding sound-proofing, and including ventilation. With tips for leveraging volunteer expertise, he makes a compelling case that homegrown cages beat name-brand for noise reduction and audio control. And at just $500-$2000 based on what you’ve got on hand, you’ll make your executive pastor happy too.