Mexican Dream Catchers

These are thought to have originated with the Huichoi tribe of the Sierra Madre mountains in Mexico. They are also known as "ojo de dios", which is Spanish for "God's eyes".

The Indians believe them to have the power to protect and heal, the colours used have different meanings e.g. red for life and yellow for the sun.

Materials are cheap and easily available- small sticks and wool; workshops are suitable for quite young children as the wrapping technique is repetitive and easy to learn.

Traditionally made two using two sticks, once this is mastered it is possible to make versions with 3,4,5 and 6 sticks (see photo's below).

An excellent introduction to the more advanced craft workshops, suitable for all ages, especially young children, who like to take them home as presents for family and friends!

Other wool and textile crafts

These include the traditional Native American Indian-style Dreamcatchers, with their distictive woven web look (see photos below). Materials and techniques are a little more complex than the Mexican dreamcatcher, but well within the reach of adults/older children, or younger children in small groups.

Friendship Bracelets use a simple knotting technique to produce small woven-effect bands and bracelets- tradition 'zig-zag' designs are common, but, in the photos below, are some curved waved designs that are just as easy to produce. A nice thing about the knotting technique is that, once mastered on a small scale, it is easy to apply to bigger projects like decorative head-bands and even sturdy, functional belts.

Macrame uses various types of cord/string, which are knotted to produce elaborate plant-pot holders etc; but, it can also be applied to straightforward textile jewelry which typically uses a single knot, repeated, and, with the addition of interesting beads, yields impressive looking 'ethnic' neck bands/bracelets in a relatively short time.