Omamori good luck charms are small rectangular bags that are typically made of brocade or kimono fabric. These charms are usually 1 to 2 inches high and are held closed by a knotted cord. The charms can be purchased at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples and feature the temple name embroidered in gold thread. The inside of the charm holds a piece of paper or wood which includes a prayer. Omamori charms are usually purchased with the new year and the old omamori is burned to signify a new beginning.
Things You'll Need:
Things You Will Need
Measure and mark two rectangular pieces of brocade or kimono fabric which measures 2 1/4 inches wide and 3 1/2 inches high.
Cut out both of the rectangles using a pair of scissors.
Separate the gold embroidery floss strands. Thread the embroidery needle with 1 to 2 strands. Mark the name of the temple on the front of one rectangular piece. Embroider the name with the threaded strands.
Lay the two rectangles on top of each other so that the patterns face each other. Insert the sewing pins around the sides and bottom of the rectangles to hold the two layers together.
Thread the sewing machine or sewing needle. Sew the sides and bottom of the fabric pieces together 1/4 inch from the edge. Remove the sewing pins.
Turn the pouch created from the fabric pieces inside out so that the pattern is on the outside.
Measure and mark a piece of paper that is 1 1/2 inches wide and 2 3/4 inches high. Cut out the piece of paper with a pair of scissors. Write a prayer on the piece of paper with a pencil. Slide the piece of paper inside the pouch.
Fold the front and back layer of fabric at the top of the pouch down and inside the interior of the pouch. Align the folds. Sew the folded edges together.
Measure and cut a piece of embroidery floss that is approximately 12 inches long. Thread the embroidery needle with the 12-inch piece. Insert the needle into the center of the omamori approximately 1/4 inches from the top folded edge. Pull the floss through the back until a 2-inch tail is left in the front.
Push the needle back through the center point, unthread the needle and pull gently on the end until 2 inches protrude in the front. Tie the two loose ends in the front together in a knot or bow. Tie the loop on the back in a knot against the fabric.