Dream catchers are increasingly becoming popular now more than ever. Maybe it’s because the modern designs are made irresistibly cute. Or perhaps, it is the legendary story behind them making a comeback.
What is a dream catcher? A dream catcher is a traditional object from the Anishinaabe (also called Ojibwe or Chippewa) tribe of North America. Although they have gained popularity in a few other tribes of North America as well.
Parents hang them above a child’s cradle or wherever they sleep to “catch” any bad dreams. Dream catchers are made of red willow branches twined into a hoop with a sinew web at the center and feathers dangling down. The web is there to entangle bad dreams while allowing sweeter ones to sail through.
There are some variations to how they are described and thought of. While some might take their dream-catching more or less literally, they are still a beautiful traditional piece of Anishinaabe art.
Many have also fallen in love with dream catchers, and like to craft their own decorations inspired by this charm.
If you would like to embrace this beautiful object and make a traditional-style dream catcher or dream-catcher-inspired ornament of your own using different materials, we’re here to help.
So what’s the best string for a dream catcher? The best string should be fairly thin, but strong and flexible enough to be intertwined to form the webbing. Natural hemp, suede string, waxed nylon, artificial sinew, jute twine, and waxed cotton are all sturdy choices. Traditional choices are made of natural fibers and colors.
The quality and characteristics of the string you choose determine the style and overall outcome of your dream catcher. It also contributes to the durability of the craft.
In this article, you will find tips for selecting the best string for dream catchers. We will also point you to 7 top-rated strings for personalizing your DIY dream catcher ornament.
Choosing a String For Your Dream Catcher
A dream catcher is made up of three parts: the hoop, the web, and dangling feathers or ornamentation. So, you must be wondering what’s all this fuss about the string.
Well, your choice of the string is important, because it forms the biggest most critical part of the dream catcher and therefore determines its longevity.
The string usually weaves the center web but may also be used to wrap the entire hoop.
It’s the part of the dream catcher that actually catches the bad dreams, so it’s obviously important. It also supports the dangling decorations and bears the weight of the entire amulet when hanging from above. Plus, it defines the feel, appearance, and style of your charm.
So, what qualities does the best string for dream catchers have?
- Fairly thin (0.8mm-1.5mm) but not weak
- Strong without being bulky
- Soft and flexible enough to be intertwined into a mesh
- Pleasant to the eye or intent
A few good choices that certify the above criteria include natural hemp, suede string, waxed nylon, artificial sinew, jute twine, and waxed cotton.
Traditionally, natural fibers were preferred for connecting to the earth but modern catchers utilize synthetic fibers too.
Top 7 Strings For Dream Catchers
There is a myriad of art, craft, and sewing thread brands in the market. Picking one for this particular project can be a daunting task.
But not when armed with relevant information regarding the best string for dream catchers. That is why we did the heavy lifting for you to narrow down your search to just seven of the top-rated cords for the job.
Here are our best picks:
| Rank | Product | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Pandahall Faux Suede Cord | Faux leather, 98yd |
| 2. | Hemptique Hemp Cord | 4 colors, 30ft each, real hemp |
| 3. | Darice's Natural Hemp Cord | Undyed hemp, 400ft |
| 4. | Mandala Waxed Cotton Thread | Natural wax + cotton, 109yd |
| 5. | Lollibeads Round Leather Cord | Genuine leather, 10yd |
| 6. | Natural Jute Twine | Natural jute twine, 100m |
| 7. | Caydo Embroidery Floss | 100 colored threads, 8m each |
We’ve also included a full review of each one so you can choose the best for all your craft needs:
1. Pandahall Faux Suede Cord
This flat faux suede cord is super soft. It wraps nicely around your hoop without hurting your fingers while at it.
The soft texture is however not a trade-off for strength. It is very sturdy and you won’t have to worry about it snapping.
Measuring 1.4mm by 3mm, one roll will get you 98.43 yards (295 feet) of string. That’s more than enough for one dream catcher project. So you can use it for a necklace, bracelet, and other crafts too.
It strings beads well, holds feathers, and can also make nice tassels for decorating your night charm. It comes in 40+ color options with some shades of brown and grey for the perfect bohemian style dream catcher.
2. Hemptique Hemp Cord
You will be happy to know that this Hemptique hemp cord is 100% natural hemp colored with AZO-free dye. It is therefore biodegradable and eco friendly.
It is 1mm (20 pounds) thick, round, and each of the 4 strands measures 29.8 feet. Just enough for a simple, nice dream catcher. It is really strong too.
We particularly loved this choice because you get 4 complimentary colors on one of these cards. There are over 20 absolutely cool hues for making a themed craft, depending on which card you choose. Among them is aqua, ruby, pastel, onyx, earthy, emerald, vintage, metallic, and more.
You can’t miss something that matches the palette of your room making this the best string for dream catchers doubling up as decor.
3. Darice‘s Natural Hemp Cord
We can’t get enough of hemp as the best string for dream catchers hence this 400 feet natural hemp cord by Darice.
It is 100% natural, no dyes or additives. Comes with the earthy smell of hemp, so you might want to air it out if it bothers you, otherwise, some people love it.
It is really strong, easy to manipulate around the hoop, and strings beads effortlessly. You get so much of it for the price which is great value for group projects or just your own plus other home crafts since it is very versatile.
If you are after the most authentic look, earth-friendly theme, or a vegan craft string for dreamcatcher, this Darice product is perfect.
4. Mandala Waxed Cotton Thread
Another natural option is this Mandala cord which some users mentioned to be a beginner-friendly string for dream catchers.
It is a lightly waxed natural cotton string. So if you do not like how some strings transfer heavy wax on to your hands, this might work for you.
The string is 300 feet long and comes in a variety of natural and vibrant hues and tones that will not fade from many days of the sun melting away the nightmares. It is the best string for dreamcatchers with a macrame artwork and will fit most beads without issues too.
5. Lollibeads Genuine Round Leather Cord
Real leather is classic and this 100% genuine leather from rawhide is probably the only one you will get at such a bargain.
The round string is 1.5mm in diameter and 10 yards long. It is soft and pliable enough to be wound, knotted, and beaded. It is relatively strong too and will hold up well for the hoop and danglers.
If you are serious about going the traditional way with your catcher, then this is a closer choice. Sinew string is the traditional material, making this genuine leather cord close in idea.
6. Natural Jute Twine
Natural jute has always been an excellent string for arts and crafts and dream catchers are no exception.
This natural jute twine string is 100% authentic. It contains no dyes, waxes, or smells. It feels softer than you would expect and is sturdy enough for home crafting.
You get 328 feet length of string, which is enough mileage for a standard dreamcatcher. The diameter is 1mm (and there are thicker options).
It is the best string for dream catchers with a vintage, rustic, or nautical theme. It also makes a beautiful tree of life for the same.
7. Caydo Embroidery Floss
We picked this string especially for kids who will enjoy making their own rainbow dream catcher. They’ll be ecstatic to see the 100 vibrant colors and the appealing sheen of the texture perfect for fancy crafting.
It is a lightweight polyester with lots of luster resulting in an appealing finish. It is sturdy as well, much stronger than cotton floss.
You can opt for 50, 100, 200, or 300 skeins depending on your needs. A skein is 8 yards with 4 threads that separate with ease if you like your string thinner. It also unwinds in a smooth sequence without tangling and comes with 12 bobbins to keep the leftover for future use.
You may want to save this for slightly older kids, however, as embroidery thread can be delicate and is quite thin, despite its lasting strength. Younger hands may find it more frustrating to work with.
Related Questions
How Long Should the Webbing and Wrapping Strings Be?
The webbing string should ideally be at least 10 times the length of the hoop.
The wrapping lace should be 8-10 times the diameter of the hoop.
Can the Same String Be Used for Wrapping and the Web?
Yes, you can use the same string for wrapping and webbing. Lace, ribbon, or suede leather are most commonly used for wrapping and something different for webbing, though cotton, hemp yarn, jute twine, and nylon threads can do both jobs.
What is the Best Color to Use on a Dream Catcher?
If you’re making a dream catcher-inspired decoration, this is really up to you.
But if you want to keep your dream catcher traditional, opt for more natural colors, or perhaps pick colors based on their significance. In many cultures, for example, black and white together symbolize the balance of life.
The best string for dreamcatchers is really dependent on your intent for the craft.
Natural fibers and earth colors are preferred for making authentic spiritual dream catchers. As for the rest, feel free to experiment with fibers and colors.
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