Fold one stalk of wheat in half, leaving the kernels sticking out

Fold another one the same way, and thread through the first one. (It now looks like a long "L" )

Fold the third the same way, and insert through the second wheat stalk. (It now looks like an L with a tail )

Fold and insert the fourth stalk through the third

Use the clothes pins to help keep the shape as you weave more wheat

Continue folding and threading the wheat stalks until you have several wheat woven through each "arm"

Allow to dry with the clothespins in place

Using the thread and needle, sew the stalks together - this is cheating, but I find that it's necessary!

Hang over the fireplace or stove

Method #2

Brighid's Crosses

Materials: Dried Wheat Stalks, Brown Thread.

Take eight stalks with sheaves still attached.

Place four stalks on flat surface with two sheaves at the top and two sheaves at the bottom.

Measure approx. 6" of stalk between the sets of sheaves and cut off excess.

Tie all four stalks together with the brown thread, first under the top sheaves, then above the bottom sheaves.

Cut off excess thread.

Repeat this procedure with the other four stalks, shortening the length between the sheaves to 4".

Carefully separate the first set of stalks (two in front and two in back) and slip the second set through approx. 1" from the bottom of the top sheaves.

Tie some thread in a knot just under the arms of the cross.

Take the excess ends and diagonally wrap the thread over the opposite corresponding arm and back to the knot.

Tie off in back and cut off excess ends.

Brighid's Cross

These crosses were exchanged as symbols of protection in ancient times. Let the children hand these Brighid's Crosses out to guests at any ritual you attend or host.

Method # 1

Items needed:

a handfull of wheat stalks

warm water

clothespins

clear or red thread and needle

Directions:

Soak wheat stalks in warm water until pliable