materials for my first shamisen

where do you guys buy your materials? I think I can find some wood, but the skin…
so what like a music store or something? Online? thanks.

someone that makes african drums should be able to get you some skins,horse or goat, or the thinner cut of a cow hide. machine down itomaki from hardwood broom handle, fishing line for strings,.90,.85and.55,

I get my from mid-east.com. :slight_smile: 12" calf or goat skin (thick) works nice.