FAQ
Questions, answered simply
The things people most often ask before choosing a bowl, and after it arrives. If your question isn't here, we're happy to help.
Choosing
How big are the bowls?
Each product page lists the exact size of that bowl. Our compact bowls are currently about 3.5 to 4 inches in diameter and 2.5 inches tall, sized to rest in the palm of your hand and to sit comfortably on a desk, a bedside table or a small shelf. Our premium bowls come in larger sizes, with a deep, resonant voice that fills a room.
Our size guide helps you picture the size before you choose.
What does a bowl sound like?
A clear tone when you tap it, then a soft, steady hum that slowly fades. Circling the rim lets the sound build gently for as long as you keep going. Because every bowl is handcrafted, each one has its own voice. As a general rule, compact bowls have a bright, clear voice, and larger bowls a deep, resonant one.
What's in the box?
Every bowl arrives ready to play, with:
- the singing bowl
- a padded cushion to rest it on
- a wooden striker with a leather-wrapped end
Sets with a case also include a matching case to keep everything together. Each product page lists exactly what is included.
Is a singing bowl a good gift?
Many of our customers buy their bowl as a gift, often for someone who has never played one. Every bowl arrives complete, so there's nothing else to buy. If you'd like everything kept together, choose a set with a case. We don't offer gift wrapping at the moment. A short how-to guide makes a thoughtful note to pass on.
Where are your bowls made?
Silent Mind bowls are metal and handcrafted in India or Nepal. Because each bowl is worked and finished by hand, every one has its own finish and voice, and small differences are part of its character.
Playing
Will I be able to make it sing?
Yes. No special skill is needed, just a little practice. Hold the bowl lightly on your fingertips (larger bowls sit on their cushion). Tap the side gently with the leather-wrapped end of the striker, then circle the outside of the rim slowly with the wooden side, keeping a light, even pressure. Many people hear the bowl sing on their first try; for others it takes a few goes to find the right pressure and speed, and that's completely normal.
Our how-to-play guide walks you through it step by step.
Prefer something to print? Meet Your Bowl, our free quick-start guide, shows each step with pictures.
Why does my bowl buzz or rattle when I circle it?
That usually means the striker is moving a little too fast, or the bowl is touching something as it vibrates. Slow down, keep your pressure light and steady, and make sure the bowl sits freely on your fingertips (larger bowls on their cushion), with nothing touching its sides. The buzz should settle into a smooth hum.
I'm sensitive to sound. Is a bowl right for me?
It can be, as long as you start gently. Begin with a very light tap, keep sessions short, and let the bowl rest a little further away from you. You're always in control of the volume, and it's fine to stop whenever you like. Our guide to starting softly has more simple tips.
Care
How do I care for my bowl?
Care is simple. Wipe the bowl with a soft, dry cloth after use, keep it away from damp, and store it on its cushion or in its case. For fingerprints or grime, use a cloth dampened with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap, then dry it fully. A little lemon juice on a soft cloth dampened with warm water can brighten plain metal; try a small spot underneath first, keep it off painted, printed or etched designs and dark finishes, then wipe it off with a damp cloth and dry the bowl fully. Avoid polish, vinegar, harsh cleaners and abrasive pads, which can mark the finish. The care guide has a little more detail.
My bowl has small marks or color differences. Is that normal?
Yes. Each bowl is handcrafted, so small variations in finish and color are part of its character, and no two are quite the same. If your bowl has arrived damaged or defective, send us a photo within 30 days of delivery and we'll send a free replacement or a full refund. For anything else that doesn't look right, please get in touch.
What is the case like?
Our sets with a case come with a zippered brocade case that matches the cushion. It keeps the bowl, cushion and striker together, at home or when you travel, and makes the set easy to give as a gift.
Orders
How long does shipping take?
US orders usually arrive within 3 to 5 business days of your order. Bowls that ship to Canada arrive free, usually within 4 to 7 business days. Our premium bowls are handcrafted to order and sent directly from our partner workshop in Nepal, so they follow their own timetable, shown on each product page. Every order includes tracking, and you'll see your shipping options and costs at checkout before you pay. See Shipping & returns for the full details.
What if I need to return my bowl?
You have 30 days from delivery to return a bowl in like-new condition, in its original packaging. You're welcome to play it to hear the sound first. Return postage is paid by you, and there's no restocking fee. If your bowl arrives damaged or defective, email a photo to support@silentmindbowls.com within 30 days of delivery and we'll send a free replacement or a full refund. The full terms are on our Shipping & returns page.
Is this the same bowl as on Amazon?
Yes. It's the same Silent Mind bowl and set as on our Amazon listings. Buying here, you deal with us directly: our team answers your emails, usually within one business day, you have 30 days from delivery to return it, and if it arrives damaged we'll send a free replacement or a full refund.