A wind chime can create an extraordinary range of moods and emotions from tranquil and contemplative to playful and inspiring. But ethereal as its sound may be, a chime’s specific effect depends on some very down-to-earth design considerations. Our guide to materials, tones, and chime types will help you to find the best wind chimes to decorate your outdoor space.
Types of Wind Chimes
Good quality wind chimes can be a lovely addition to your home and garden. In addition to more commonly known tubular and bell designs, our selection includes many different types of wind chimes for both indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Tubular Chimes: These wind chimes feature vertical tubes commonly made from aluminum or bamboo. Because each tube varies in length, these chimes produce a number of tones for a unique song.
- Bell Chimes: True to their name, bell chimes feature one or more bells in place of vertical tubes. The shape, size, and material of each bell differs from chime to chime for a look and sound unique to you.
- Decorative Chimes: Animal-themed and whimsical decorative chimes are a lovely visual and sonic addition to porches, patios, and gardens.
- Celebration and Memorial Chimes: These tuned chimes are excellent gifts for weddings and anniversaries and often include the option of personalized engraving on the wind sail.
- Feng Shui Chimes and Gongs: These Asian-inspired designs are perfect for your garden or desktop and include water fountains with floating bells.
Wind Chime Materials
It should come as no surprise that material has a big effect on the sound of individual wind chimes. Depending on the mood you wish to create or the look you aspire to, you’ll likely find yourself preferring one material over another. From sturdy aluminum to delicate shells, the pros of each material are outlined below.
Wind Chime Tones
Tone refers to the pitch and quality of your wind chime’s sound. As a result, tone has a significant influence on the atmosphere of your outdoor living area. For example, deep tones can be a bit hypnotic, while high tones are energizing and playful. If you’re uncertain of a wind chime’s sound, check the individual product page for an audio preview or use this brief summary as a guide.
Low Tone Chimes
A chime’s size is usually a good indication of its sound. Longer tubes, such as those on tenor and base chimes, produce a low, full sound. They offer deep, sustained sound that’s very relaxing and sometimes suggestive of cathedral or sacred music.
Medium Tone Chimes
Our mezzo and alto chimes are medium to large in size, and often feature multiple tubes for a greater variation in notes and broader range of harmonies. With sounds that are serene or even mystical in quality, listeners tend to find them cheerful and uplifting.
High Tone Chimes
These designs have short and narrow tubes. They produce a light, charming sound with a range of notes from middle C to high A.
Overview of Wind Chime Features
With so many factors to consider, selecting the right wind chime for your backyard can be a challenge. In addition to size, sound, and material, wind chimes also vary in theme and color and whether they’re suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Use this at-a-glance table to weigh the pros and cons of wind chime materials to determine which is best for your particular style and situation.
| Features by Material: | Metal | Bamboo | Glass |
| Tuned to Notes | Yes | No | No |
| Durability | Best | Better | Good |
| Decorative Theme | No | No | Yes |
| Color Options | Limited | Limited | Multiple |
| Indoor Use | Good | Good | Best |
| Outdoor Use | Best | Best | Good |
Wind chimes add a lovely element to your outdoor space and an audible quality you and your guests are sure to enjoy. Browse our full assortment at hayneedle.com and find the wind chime that speaks to you.
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