Make a Traditional Dreamcatcher With This Simple DIY Tutorial
Seeing so many dreamcatchers in folks’ decorations these days might leave you wondering, but in case you were curious, yes, they are an authentic American Indian tradition from the Ojibway (Chippewa) tribe. These native people would tie sinew strands in a web around a small round or tear-shaped frame and hang this as a charm to protect sleeping children from nightmares. Famously, the legend is that the bad dreams will get caught in the dreamcatcher’s web.
During the pan-Indian movement in the 60’s and 70’s, Ojibway dreamcatchers grew in popularity in other Native American tribes, even among the Cherokee, Lakota, and Navajo. Today, they’re highly popularized among the younger set for their trendy aesthetic value. This increased fame doesn’t lessen the tradition and history the dreamcatcher possesses, however.
In long-held custom, the dreamcatcher was intended to protect the sleeping individual from negative dreams, while letting positive dreams through. The positive dreams would slip through the hole in the center of the dream catcher, and glide down the feathers to the sleeping person below. The negative dreams would get caught up in the web, and die when the first rays of the sun struck them.
Whether you believe that the dreamcatcher has these powers or not, when used properly, it can be a wonderful charm of positive energy and a way to honor the metaphysical traditions of Native Americans. Rather than cheapening the tradition, you can use this powerful symbol for yourself, rather than selling it as kitschy souvenirs. It can also have a subconscious effect on your mind, which can lead to more restful nights.
Either way, they are a beautiful symbol worthy of respect.
Here’s your guide to making your own, customizable dreamcatcher. Traditional dreamcatchers use feathers, bone, and beads, but you can see what works for you. Try stringing beads of power crystals that you resonate with the most, or leaves of herbs that have a strong, positive effect on you. Be careful when experimenting, however, as this traditional dreamcatcher can be rather delicate!
The Frame
- Start with a 2-6 foot length of fresh red willow (red osier dogwood) or soaked grapevine (you can find this in most arts and crafts stores).
- Carefully bend the vine around to form a circle with a 3-8 inch diameter. You can adjust the diameter to whatever length you want, but note that traditional dreamcatchers are usually no bigger than an adult’s hand.
- Once you have made the circle, twist the remaining length around the circle to reinforce the hoop.
- Use 4-16 feet (depending on the diameter of your hoop) of strong, thin string to knot a loop in one end from which you will hang the dreamcatcher. Tie the hanging loop around the top of your dreamcatcher, or at the weakest point of your hoop.
The First Stitch
- The dream catcher repeats the same stitch from start to finish. To start, hold the string and place it loosely over the top of the hoop. Move the string around to the back of the hoop (forming a hole) and pull the string back through the hole you just made.
- Pull each stitch taught, but not too tight or it will warp the hoop of the dream catcher, and it will not lie flat when it is done. You can also add decorations that either tie or loop into the stitches, such as beads.
- Continue the same stitch for the first round around the hoop of the dream catcher. Space the stitches evenly, about 1 ½ to 2 in. apart (making 7 to 13 stitches around the hoop).
- The last stitch of the first round should be placed about a half inch away from the hanging loop.
The Second Stitch
- On the second and subsequent stitching rounds, place the string around the center of each stitch from the previous round (rather than around the hoop).
- As you pull each stitch tight, the string from the previous round should bend towards the center of the hoop slightly, forming a diamond shape. You should see the spider web beginning to form.
- On the third or fourth round add a bead to represent the spider in the web. Simply place the bead on your string and continue stitching as usual.
- Continue stitching towards the center of the hoop. Eventually, the stitches become so small that it is difficult to pass the string through. Make sure you leave a hole in the center of the dreamcatcher.
- Stop stitching at the bottom of the hole in the center of the dream catcher. End by stitching twice in the same place, forming a knot, and pull tight.
Decorating
- You should have 6 – 8 in. of string to tie 2 or 3 feathers which dangle from the center of the dreamcatcher. Tie on 2 or 3 feathers and knot.
- Wrap a 1 in. square of felt or fabric around the knot of string and over the base of the feathers. Tie two 4 In. pieces string around the wrapped felt.
- Hang over sleeping place. Sweet dreams!
About the Author
Who is Archangel Metatron and How Does He Manifest?
Archangel Metatron is known as one of the most powerful and closest archangels to humanity. His role includes overseeing the Akashic Records and assisting in the process of spiritual ascension. In this article, we explore who Metatron is, his significance, and how he manifests in our lives.
Table of Contents
- Archangel Metatron: Who He Is and What He Represents
- Channeled Message from Archangel Metatron
- How Metatron Manifests
- Metatron and Sacred Geometry
- How to Invoke and Work with Archangel Metatron
Archangel Metatron: Who He Is and What He Represents
Metatron is considered one of the only two archangels who were once human, having been the prophet Enoch before his ascension. His transformation into a celestial being grants him a special connection with humanity, serving as a bridge between heaven and earth. Metatron is often described as the scribe of God, tasked with documenting every event in the universe and guiding souls through their spiritual evolution.
He represents divine wisdom and pure light, helping individuals release negative patterns and raise their vibration. Metatron is also known for his association with sacred geometry, which he uses to bring order to chaos and manifest balance in all things. His energy is powerful and transformative, inviting those who invoke him to align with their true purpose and advance on their spiritual path.
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The Meaning of His Name
The name “Metatron” has various interpretations in spiritual traditions. It is commonly translated as “the one who occupies the throne next to God’s throne” or “the angel of presence”. These definitions highlight his elevated status and closeness to the divine, emphasizing his crucial role as an intermediary between God and humanity.
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Archangel Metatron and the Akashic Records
Metatron is known as the guardian of the Akashic Records, a vast collection of information about all souls and their experiences throughout time. These records are essential for understanding life purpose and spiritual lessons. Metatron facilitates access to these records, providing guidance and clarity to those seeking to understand their spiritual path and resolve pending karma.
Channeled Message from Archangel Metatron
In Open Minds, hosted by Regina Meredith, Joan Walker channels a live message from Archangel Metatron. During the interview, Metatron offers profound insights into the spiritual evolution of humanity, emphasizing the importance of releasing old patterns and raising our consciousness. This message is a vital guide for those seeking to understand their role in the process of ascension and personal transformation.
How Metatron Manifests
Archangel Metatron manifests in various ways to guide and assist humanity on their spiritual journey. These manifestations can be subtle or powerful, but they are always intended to provide clarity and spiritual elevation.
- Guidance in Meditation: During meditation, Metatron manifests as an enveloping and protective energy. This contact facilitates a deeper connection with your spiritual purpose.
- Activation of Sacred Geometry: Feeling drawn to sacred geometry, especially the Metatron’s Cube, is a sign of his influence. This symbol appears in meditations or visualizations, helping to balance and harmonize your energy.
- Messages in Dreams: Vivid dreams with clear messages can be a form of communication from Metatron. These dreams often contain symbols or guidance that direct your spiritual path.
- Lights or Flashes of Color: Metatron can manifest visually through lights or flashes of color, particularly in golden or violet tones. These appearances are indications of his guidance and protective energy.
- Energy: You may perceive Metatron’s energy through an intense vibration in your body. Sensations like tingling in the extremities, slight disorientation, or dizziness indicate his presence and encourage you to make positive changes in your life.
- Synchronicities: The appearance of synchronized events, such as mirror numbers, can be a sign from Metatron. These synchronicities indicate that you are aligned with divine purpose and that the universe supports you.
- Feeling of Peace: Experiencing a deep inner peace, even in moments of chaos, can be a sign of Metatron’s presence. This state of calm helps you center yourself and connect with your higher self.
Metatron and Sacred Geometry
Archangel Metatron is widely recognized for his connection to sacred geometry, especially through the Metatron's Cube. This cube is a three-dimensional figure that contains all the fundamental geometric shapes representing the basic structure of the universe. Meditating on the Metatron’s Cube facilitates the harmonization and balancing of internal energies, helping individuals connect with their higher self and manifest their highest intentions.
Sacred Geometry, which includes patterns like the Flower of Life and the Platonic Solids, is a powerful tool for spiritual transformation. Metatron uses these symbols to bring order to chaos, helping to align personal energies with those of the universe. Through meditation and visualization of these geometric forms, practitioners can access a higher state of consciousness and understand the cosmic laws that govern creation.
Working with sacred geometry under Metatron’s guidance not only promotes personal healing but also facilitates the expansion of collective consciousness. By integrating these patterns into daily life, one can create an environment of harmony and peace that resonates with the highest frequencies of love and light. This practice is an invitation to explore the depths of the universe and discover the limitless potential of our spiritual existence.
How to Invoke and Work with Archangel Metatron
To invoke and work with Archangel Metatron, it is essential to set a clear intention and create a sacred space. This can be achieved through meditation, prayer, or specific rituals that facilitate connection with his powerful energy. By doing so, Metatron can provide guidance, protection, and wisdom, helping to manifest a life aligned with divine purpose.
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Prayer
An effective way to connect with Metatron is through prayer, requesting his presence and guidance in times of need. A simple prayer can be: “Archangel Metatron, I invoke you at this moment. Please surround my being with your divine light and guide me on my spiritual path. Help me release any negative energy and raise my vibration towards love and light.”
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Meditation
Meditation is another powerful tool for connecting with Metatron. Visualize the Metatron’s Cube surrounding you as you breathe deeply and focus on your intention. Allow the energy of the cube to harmonize your being and connect you with the highest frequencies of the universe. This practice can help you gain clarity, peace, and a deeper connection with your spiritual purpose.
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Rituals and Other Spiritual Practices
Rituals are an effective way to invoke Metatron’s presence and work with his energy. A simple ritual can include lighting a white candle, burning incense, and placing a sacred geometry symbol on your altar. As you perform this ritual, you can recite a prayer or mantra that connects you with Metatron’s energy and requests his guidance and protection.
Another spiritual practice is creating a mandala using sacred geometry patterns, such as the Metatron’s Cube. Drawing or coloring this mandala can be an active meditation that allows you to tune into Metatron’s energies. This process not only connects you with his energy but can also bring balance and harmony to your daily life.
