We’ve all seen ornate dreamcatchers sold as kitschy decorations, but did you know that dreamcatchers originated as part of a Native American a tradition to ward off children’s bad dreams? Traditionally, they were made of a willow hoop and decorated with sacred beads or feathers. The weblike design was thought to ensnare (or catch) negative thoughts and bad dreams, and only allow the pleasant dreams to reach the dreamer.
This mini dreamcatcher, inspired by the Native American object, is made of a key ring and string and can be decorated to your heart’s content. So whether you’re in search of some nightmare-free sleep, or just a simple craft project to keep the negative thoughts at bay, I hope this dreamcatcher will bring you some much needed peace.
Here’s what you’ll:
MATERIALS
- key ring
- embroidery floss (aka string)
- scissors
- embroidery needle (optional)
- beads
Key Ring Dreamcatcher
DIRECTIONS
1. Cut a strand of embroidery floss. Twelve inches should be more than enough.
2. Tie one end of the string onto your key ring. Leave about one inch of string at the top so you can hang up your dream catcher once you’re done.
3. Loop the long end of the string over and through the key ring. You may want to use an embroidery needle to help you guide the string.
4. Continue tying equally spaced loops around the key ring. I managed to get six loops before I reached the knot at the top of the key ring.
5. Create the second layer of your web by looping the string between the six loops you’ve just created. Think of a spiral.
6. Continue your spiral pattern by looping each new layer on top of the previous layer. Stop once the hole in the center of your web is too tiny to work with. For me this was after the fourth layer, but if you’re not using an embroidery needle, this could be after the third layer.
7. Tie a single bead at the end of your string. This will sit in the very center of your web.
8. Tie your string securely before cutting off the excess string at the end of the bead.
9. Using the excess string, tie three separate strands of beads at the bottom of your dreamcatcher. If you’re feeling extra creative, you could also use feathers, ribbons, or even more strands of beads to decorate your dreamcatcher.
10. Attach the dreamcatcher to your headboard and let the sweet dreams roll in!
(Partially guaranteed to help insomnia: either because the dreamcatcher is working or because you’re up making this at 3am. ¯_(ツ)_/¯ )
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