Dream catchers are traditional Ojibwe hoop charms woven like spider webs. They act as a filter for dreams, trapping scary nightmares while letting happy dreams slide down to a sleeping child. [1, 2, 3]
The Spider Woman Legend
- Guardian spirit: An Ojibwe legend says a magical Spider Woman named Asibikaashi protected all the children on the land.
- Family helpers: When the tribe grew too big, grandmothers and mothers helped weave webs on willow hoops so children would stay safe. [1]
How the Parts Work
- The Web: The middle string pattern catches bad dreams like a spider web.
- The Hole: A small gap is left open in the very center so good dreams can pass through.
- The Feathers: Soft feathers act as a gentle slide for good dreams to reach the sleeper. [1]
Special Meanings
- Circle of life: The round wooden hoop shows the shape of the sun traveling across the sky.
- Beads: A single bead in the web stands for the spider, while multiple beads represent caught dreams