african juju hat tutorial

I was immediately drawn to these beautiful feather wreaths the first time I saw one. Then I learned the history behind them and adored them even more. This type of wreath is actually a Juju hat, handcrafted by the Bamileke people of Cameroon. They were worn at traditional ceremonies and royal festivals. Originally made with raffia, they can also be found made with lush feathers in all colors. Call them what you may, but these beautiful feather Juju hats make stunning statements as wall decor. The good news is that they are not difficult at all to make!

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supplies needed:

cardboard
scissors
feathers
glue gun and sticks

step 1 – cardboard base

To make the round base, use a plate or platter as a guide. Trace around it then cut the circle from a piece of cardboard. Mine measured 13″ in diameter.

step 2 – feather layers

For my wreath, I used 6 yards of natural rooster hackle feather trim and 2 yards of black goose feather trim. I also used 2 packages of natural and beige mixed Coque tail feathers (sold as individual feathers in a pack).

Using a glue gun, attach a layer of rooster hackle feathers to the outside edge of the cardboard. Cut a section at a time from the roll for easier handling.

After about three layers of natural feathers, add (one at a time) a package of the mixed color Coque tail feathers. This will add some dimension to the wreath.

Now add two rows of the black feathers.

Finally, add a small circle of the natural rooster hackle feathers to the center.

Cut several small lengths of the natural feathers and glue them to the center as well. (See photo below.)

step 3 – center

For the center of the Juju hat, I found a piece of foam (it was actually part of the packaging for scrapbooking pins) and cut it down to a small piece. Any soft foam, such as floral foam, would work.

Next, I glued four feathers, shooting out horizontally, to the foam.

After gluing the foam piece to the center of the wreath, I began sticking individual feathers to it, slanting in all directions. This is similar to arranging a vase of flowers, with the feathers sprouting everywhere to form a tiny bouquet. This creates a nice poufy core for the wreath.

step 4 – finishing touches

If you are pleased with your Juju hat, all that is left now is to hang it. However, I have a confession. Although I loved the look of my wreath, I wanted it a bit fuller. I began cutting small pieces of feather fringe I had left over and stuffing and gluing them into various spots I thought needed a little more fullness. I kept adding more feathers until I had used nearly all of them, but it was worth it. I love the finished project.