The “Eye of God” yarn craft, also known as Ojo de Dios, is a woven wall hanging made by wrapping yarn around a cross of sticks or dowels. It is a traditional craft from the Huichol people of Mexico, where the diamond-shaped center represents the eye of a deity and the sticks symbolize the four elements or cardinal directions.
Origins and Cultural Background
The Ojo de Dios (Spanish for “Eye of God”) originates with the Wixárika (Huichol) people of the Sierra Madre Occidental in Mexico. In their tradition, the woven object is called Tsikúri, and it is created for ceremonial and protective purposes. The central “eye” is often made by a father at a child’s birth, with one color added for each year of the child’s life until age five. The four points of the cross represent earth, fire, air, and water, while the center holds the “eye” that sees and protects.
The craft became widely known outside Mexico in the mid-20th century, particularly through the 1960s counterculture, when it was adopted as a simple meditation or decoration project. Today it is a common craft in schools and homes, but its sacred origin is still honored by the Huichol, who continue to make it as part of their religious practice.
How the Weaving Works
The Eye of God is made by wrapping yarn around two sticks that cross at their centers, forming an X. The weaving itself is a simple over-and-under motion: you wrap the yarn around one stick, then rotate the frame to the next stick, and repeat. This creates a diamond-shaped pattern that grows outward from the center.
To start, you tie a knot at the center of the cross, then begin wrapping. The key is to keep the yarn taut and to rotate the frame consistently. As you wrap, the yarn covers the sticks, and the pattern emerges. You can change colors at any point by tying a new strand to the old one and continuing.
More complex versions use multiple layers or additional sticks to create eight-pointed or even twelve-pointed stars. The basic technique remains the same, but the number of sticks increases the complexity.
Materials and How to Choose Them
You only need three things: sticks, yarn, and scissors. The sticks should be straight and roughly equal in length. Common choices include wooden dowels, craft sticks, or even twigs from your yard. The yarn should be a medium-weight acrylic or cotton, which is easy to work with and holds its shape. Avoid very thick or very thin yarn for your first project, as they are harder to manage.
For the sticks, the diameter matters: too thick and the yarn won’t cover them easily; too thin and they may bend. A 1/4-inch (6 mm) dowel is a good starting point. For yarn, a worsted-weight (medium) yarn is ideal. You can also use embroidery floss for finer work, but it takes longer.
If you want a traditional look, choose bright, saturated colors like red, yellow, blue, and green. If you prefer a modern aesthetic, use neutral tones or a gradient of one color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cross two sticks at their centers and tie a small piece of yarn around the intersection to hold them firmly.
- Begin wrapping the yarn around one stick, going over the top and around the back, then pull it tight.
- Rotate the frame 90 degrees so the next stick is at the top, and wrap that stick in the same way.
- Continue rotating and wrapping each stick in sequence. The yarn will form a diamond shape.
- To change colors, tie the new yarn to the old one near a stick, trim the ends, and continue wrapping.
- When you reach the desired size, tie off the yarn on the back of one stick and trim the excess.
You can leave the ends of the sticks exposed or wrap them entirely. Many people add a loop of yarn at the top to hang the finished piece.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
One common issue is the yarn slipping off the ends of the sticks. This happens when the wrapping is too loose or the sticks are too smooth. To fix it, wrap more tightly and, if necessary, add a dab of glue to the stick ends before wrapping.
Another problem is the pattern becoming lopsided. This occurs when you don’t rotate the frame consistently or when you wrap some sticks more than others. Count your wraps: each stick should receive the same number of wraps before you move on.
If the yarn bunches up or twists, stop and untangle it. Twisted yarn can cause uneven tension. Also, if you’re using a slippery yarn like silk or nylon, it may slide; choose a rougher yarn or wrap more tightly.
Variations and Creative Alternatives
Beyond the classic four-pointed eye, you can make an eight-pointed star by adding a second pair of sticks at right angles to the first. This creates a more intricate pattern and is a popular variation. You can also use three sticks to make a six-pointed star, or even five sticks for a ten-pointed star.
Another variation is to use different materials for the frame, such as bamboo skewers or even wire. Wire allows you to bend the frame into curves, creating a more sculptural piece. You can also incorporate beads or feathers by threading them onto the yarn as you weave.
For a modern twist, use a single color or a gradient of shades. The technique remains the same, but the look is very different. Some crafters also make mini versions as ornaments or earrings.
Cost and Time Considerations
The cost of making an Eye of God is very low. A skein of yarn costs about $3–$5, and a pack of dowels is about $5–$10. If you use found twigs, the cost is essentially zero. For a small piece (about 4 inches across), you might use 10–20 yards of yarn, depending on how thick you wrap.
Time-wise, a simple four-pointed eye takes about 15–30 minutes to make. An eight-pointed star can take an hour or more. The more colors and layers you add, the longer it takes. It’s a relaxing, meditative craft that is easy to pick up and put down.
Safety and Age Appropriateness
This craft is safe for children, but adult supervision is recommended for younger kids due to the use of scissors and sharp stick ends. Use blunt-tipped scissors for children under 8. Also, be careful with the pointed ends of dowels or skewers; you can sand them down to avoid pokes.
If you use glue, ensure it is non-toxic. Avoid using yarn that is too thin, as it can cut into fingers if pulled tightly. Otherwise, there are no significant safety concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Eye of God symbolize?
In Huichol tradition, the center represents the eye of a deity, and the four points symbolize the elements: earth, fire, air, and water. It is a protective charm, often made for children or for ceremonial use. In modern craft contexts, it is often just a decorative item, but the original meaning is still honored by the Huichol.
Can I use any type of yarn?
Yes, but medium-weight yarn is easiest for beginners. Very thick yarn may be hard to wrap tightly, and very thin yarn takes longer to cover the sticks. Cotton and acrylic are both good choices. If you want a shiny look, try a rayon or silk blend, but be aware they can be slippery.
How do I finish the ends of the Eye of God?
You can either leave the stick ends exposed or wrap them with yarn. To wrap the ends, continue wrapping the yarn around each stick until it reaches the tip, then tie off and trim. You can also add a loop of yarn at the top for hanging.
Is the Eye of God a religious item?
For the Huichol people, it is a sacred object used in rituals and ceremonies. For most crafters outside that culture, it is a decorative craft. It is respectful to acknowledge its origins, but making one for personal enjoyment is generally accepted. Avoid selling it as a Huichol artifact if you are not Huichol.
What can I do with a finished Eye of God?
You can hang it on a wall, use it as a mobile, or give it as a gift. Small ones make nice ornaments for a Christmas tree or as package decorations. You can also attach several to a branch to make a wind chime or wall hanging.
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