I made my first pair of bones from an old Bois d?arc fence post and taught myself how to play them. They rendered a beautiful, clear, bell-like sound. I made another pair, with minor improvements, so I could play with both hands. A lot of sets later I have made a set that I consider the ultimate bones design. Nothing makes bones like 100 year old Bois d'arc fence post! Traditionally bones are held close to one end, and the opposing ends are clicked together ... one striking point. My bones are designed to be held in the middle with finger grooves to keep them from walking. This gives 2 striking points per pair and 4 per set. My bones are balanced, so that they weigh the same on each end of the groove. When held together the striking surfaces are mated for a perfect strike every time. I mark them so I can hold them the same way every time.