Being born and raised in the Dakotas, I have always been fond of the dreamcatchers.
Dreamcatchers were traditionally used as talismans to protect sleeping people, usually children, from bad dreams and nightmares. It is believed that bad dreams get stuck in the web and are captured so the dreamer does not experience them. Then, good dreams can slide down to the person the dreamcatcher is protecting. The feathers work as ladders for the good dreams to peacefully reach the sleeper. Follow my step-by-step instructions to create your own, unique dream catcher. Sweet Dreams!
· willow tree branch (or any tree branch that is flexible or a metal hoop)
· twine (yarn or embroidery string)
· zip ties
· super weld glue (any super glue)
· toothpicks (for helping to adhere the glue)
· pheasant feathers (many other possibilities to use)
· beads (colors of choice)
2. Create a circle out of a willow branch, or anything to your liking. Connect the two ends together with a zip tie.
3. Take your twine (string or yarn) and tie it to the top of the circle (you will cut off any excess at the end). Weave the twine around the circle 5 times in the shape of a pentagon. Tie a knot at each of the 5 weaves for stability.
4. Weave around the center of each of your first 5 parts (no knots needed now).
5. Create the inner portions (that look like a “star”) by weaving in the center of each new part you have created. Then, continue weaving to your liking. You can do this as many times as you like. Cut off the excess twine and tie it together.
6. Cut lengths of twine and decorate with beads and feathers. I chose 3 individual strings for my dreamcatcher. Then tie these individual strings at the bottom of the dreamcatcher.
7. Choose feathers to decorate the top of your dreamcatcher to conceal the zip tie.
8. Make a loop with the extra twine at the top of the dreamcatcher for hanging. I also chose to decorate the extra twine with some beads. Be creative, and have fun!
Now hang the dreamcatcher above your bed for happy dreams.
Dream Catcher Lullabies by Trista Osburn
Grandmother’s Dreamcatcher by Becky Ray McCain and Stacey Schuett
My Dreamcatcher by Shannon Johnson
Brenda Dronen is a mom, grandmother, educational consultant in reading, a retired elementary teacher of 33 years and a lover of the great outdoors. Watch for her creative crafts bringing the great outdoors inside.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
