Simple DreamCatcher Tutorial
So here's a little bit about me. I first started off selling my handmade soaps and body oils, and while I do plan on adding those Items to my shop eventually, I've found myself enamored with the world of handmade home décor. From hand poured candles, to large macramé wall hangings, I just can't get enough, and my book of "ideas to try making someday" is getting a little...fat. So I decided to start small. I had a made a few DreamCatchers in the past, and I'd always loved them, so it only made sense to begin with something I was already familiar with. In the last 7 months, I've made over 50 DreamCatchers, and they all start with the same, simple design. While I do plan to step outside the box and try new weaving patterns in the future, this will always be my go-to. So if you're looking for a simple, beautiful DreamCatcher tutorial, then look no further!
What you'll need to get started:
Grab yourself a hoop from any craft or thrift store, these can be wood, plastic, or even metal. Next you'll need a few different yarn choices, a thin one for wrapping the hoop, and at least one chunky or textured one to use as the tassels. You can also opt to use recycled materials, like shredded fabric, ribbon, or even chain. I ALWAYS choose yarn, because I LOVE IT. Funny thing about me though, I don't know how to knit or crochet! I have friends who do, and I love the way their projects turn out, but I just don't have the patience. Not to mention, I love the way yarn looks hanging freely, so comfy and plush, I don't know that I'll ever use anything else!
Next, you just need some embroidery thread or twine of a corresponding color, a big dull needle (or Howlite bead in my case...they work great, don't knock it until you've tried it!) and whatever beads or embellishments you'd like to add to your piece. I sometimes use beads constantly along the way, but unless the hole in the bead is large enough to fit over the needle you're using, it isn't always worth it to be constantly taking the needle off to add another bead. Also, don't forget your scissors, duh.
So let's get started! First, you'll need to wrap your hoop with the smaller yarn. It's super easy, just wind yourself up some of the yarn into a smaller ball (make sure you have enough to go around the entire hoop!), tie it to the hoop, and start wrapping!
Once you're done, its time to start weaving your web! If you're making a very large DreamCatcher, I don't recommend using your needle right away, instead keep your embroidery thread wound in an organized little wand shape. it will be easier to weave with until you get towards the end of your piece when your thread is much shorter. Remember, embroidery thread can tangle and twist EASILY, causing more frustration than enjoyment when it comes to trying to get a project done.
To start off your web, get your thread ready, and tie the end of it your hoop. try to aim for the same area that you ended your yarn on, so they can both be hidden by your tassels later.
Now it's time to start making your first set of loops around the hoop. For intricate webs, make sure to keep your loops close together (an inch or less apart for small hoops). For a larger, more open weave you can make them over an inch or two and go from there. To start off, slide the knot you just made with your embroidery thread so that it's inside the hoop. Next, make a loop over the top of the hoop, and then under, and through itself. Do this 2-3 times, leaving a small amount of slack between each loop, like this:
You want to leave a little slack this first time around so your DreamCatcher isn't strung too tightly, making it difficult to complete. Make sure to hold your finger on the top of each loop as you begin the next one, so it doesn't slide out of place. Once you've made you first set of loops, make sure to adjust them as needed, keeping them spaced evenly apart. The final loop should end exactly where the first knot was tied. After you've made your way around, its time to start the next round of loops.
After you get to the end of your first round, begin your second by making your next loop through the first one. It will look a little odd at first, but as you make your way around the next couple of times, it will start to make sense. At this point you should be holding the hoop with you dominant hand, keeping your pointer finger on top of the hoop, and using your middle finger and thumb to hold each new loop in its place while you start the next one. Make sure to begin pulling the thread somewhat taut after the first round, and keep each new loop centered in the thread its strung through.
This is the perfect time to begin adding beads if you would like. Simply string them on to the thread, and make your next loop. Super easy! If not, just continue the looping around, always making sure to never miss a thread, and to hold the loops taut as you go.
Once you get near the center of you piece, you'll need to decide how large you would like the opening to be, and what you would like to hang in the middle, if anything at all. Crystal beads are a wonderful choice, and metal charms work great too. My current favorite is a copper wire wrapped quartz that I made from a locally found stone. Remember that you want the original knot you started your web with to be at the BOTTOM of you piece, so aim to hang your charm directly above it. Once you're ready, string the trinket on facing AWAY from you, as you'll be tying your final knot towards you, and you'll want it to be hidden. After you string on your charm, continue making loops starting with the very next thread.
Make sure to leave a wide enough opening to fit your charm of choice!
At this point I usually make a couple more loops to even out the opening, and then tie off the thread by looping twice through the same hole, and pulling tight. Trim off excess thread, and use a lighter to singe the end, sealing the knot.
Now that your web is complete, it's time to make you tassels! Cut long strands of yarn (or your material of choice) to double the length you want them to be. The more strands you cut, the fuller your piece will be!
Now, start looping the yarn through the outer hoop, starting in the middle. You can double or triple them for a chunky effect! Then simply pull them tight, and continue around until you have your desired look.
And there you have it! Now is your time to add chunky beads or feathers to the yarn strands, braid them, trim them into any shape you'd like, and just genuinely make it your own!
DreamCatchers are the perfect addition to any boho household, and make a wonderful housewarming, birthday, or even baby shower gift. Its easy to hot glue on dried or synthetic flowers or foliage for a more dramatic effect, and they're entirely customizable, so they can be made to match any décor. Really, the possibilities are ENDLESS.
So there you have it! The simple DreamCatcher pattern I use is now yours to enjoy, I hope you fill you walls (and your heart) with some seriously dreamy vibes.
-Marie
If you're interested in purchasing this travel size dream catcher, you can find it here:
Or you can shop my entire collection by clicking the SHOP link at the top of this page.
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