Mark the Season: Spring 1

St Brigid’s Cross.

1st February is St Brigid’s Day.

Brigid is one of Ireland’s three patron saints, (along with Patrick and Columba). Her saints day (Lá Fhéile Bríde) is also the start of Imbolc in the Celtic folk tradition, the celebration of the goddess Brigit.

It’s taught that to explain Christianity, Brigid would make crosses from reeds, and so a tradition on St Brigid’s Eve (today!) was to make the cross and hang it above your front door for blessing and protection.

I like to make a St Brigid cross each year to remind me that Spring is on the way, and as a reminder to pray as I exit the house.

Here’s how to make a Brigid’s Cross

What you’ll need: 9 paper straws (or actual straw, or reeds). 4 small elastic bands.

Step 1: Take one straw and hold it vertically.

Then bend another straw in half.

Step 2: Place the vertical straw in the centre of the folded second straw.

Step 3: Turn the two straws held together 90 degrees counter clockwise so that the open ends of the second straw are projecting vertically upwards. And bend the third straw in the middle.

Step 4: Place the third straw over both parts of the second straw so it lies horizontally from left to right alongside the first straw.

Step 5: Turn the three staws 90 degrees counter clockwise so that the open ends of the third staw are pointing upwards. Bend your fourth straw ready!

Step 6: Put the fourth straw over and across all the staws pointing upwards.

Step 7: Repeat the process - bending a new straw, turning the cross 90 degrees counter clockwise and putting the straw over all the straws facing upwards. Do this until all 9 straws are used.

Step 8: Secure the four arms of the cross with elastic bands.

You can trim the arms so they’re equal length, but I don’t mind it being a bit more natural. You are redy to hang your Brigid’s Cross!