Dreamcatchers have a rich history, originating with Native Americans and gaining popularity during the hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s.

According to Ojibwe legend, a spider woman named Asibikaashi cared for children but could not reach all of them.

To assist, mothers and grandmothers crafted dreamcatchers using willow hoops, twine, and feathers, hanging them above children's beds to filter out bad dreams while allowing good ones to pass through. As the sun rises, the bad dreams are said to vanish.

How to Make a DIY Dreamcatcher

Making dreamcatchers is straightforward but can be challenging to explain without visual aids. Each dreamcatcher turns out uniquely, so embracing individual creativity is encouraged.

Materials Needed:

• 5-inch metal hoop

• 2.5 yards of suede lace

• 3 feathers with loops for hanging

• 1 skein of embroidery floss

• Natural gemstone beads (e.g., 4mm Amazonite)

• Optional: big-eye needles for threading beads

Choosing Gemstones: Amazonite was selected for its believed properties of dispelling negative feelings and promoting calmness, making it ideal for preventing bad dreams. Other options include Amethyst or Selenite.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Wrap the Suede Lace: Begin by wrapping the suede lace around the metal hoop, leaving a 6-inch tail at the top.

2. Continue Wrapping: Wrap tightly until no metal is visible.

3. Secure the Knot: Tie a tight knot at the base of the tails.

4. Attach Embroidery Floss: Tie one end of the embroidery floss around the suede lace knot at the top.

5. Create Loops: Bring the embroidery floss through the hoop and back through the previous loop; repeat this process until wrapped around approximately 12 times.

6. Add Beads: Wrap around the middle of the embroidery floss loop, tightening gradually while adding gemstone beads as desired.

7. Finalize Tension: Once satisfied with the bead arrangement, pull the end of the embroidery floss to tighten and secure it with a knot.

8. Attach Feathers: Thread embroidery floss through feather loops or tie them on securely, adding beads if desired.

Customize Your DIY Dreamcatcher

Customization options are virtually limitless:

• Experiment with different sizes of hoops.

• Match embroidery floss colors to personal or room decor.

• Choose various colors of suede lace.

• Adjust the number of wraps around the hoop for varied looks.

• Select gemstone beads that resonate personally.

• Incorporate ribbons or yarn along with or instead of feathers.

Create a DIY Dreamcatcher Craft Kit

For those who find gathering materials overwhelming, consider packaging everything needed into a muslin drawstring bag. This makes an excellent gift for craft enthusiasts or anyone interested in creating their own dreamcatcher while enjoying a meaningful activity.