How to Make an Ancient Celtic Robe

Celtic robes were worn by followers of the goddess religions in ancient Wales and the British Isles. Druid priests still wear the long, hooded white robes that designate their order to Stonehenge Summer Solstice celebrations. Celtic robes that echo ancient times are simple to make.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• White hooded robe (plain)
• Contrasting trim
• 9 foot cording
• Green fabric paint or embroidery thread

1. 

   Select a white robe, or one in a natural, organic shade. Ancient Celtic robes reflect personal qualities and are central to Druid identity. Consider the weight and texture of the fabric as well as how it fits---Druid priests considered the robes to be their skin.

2. 

   Add fabric trim that contrasts with the robe or is associated with your favorite god or goddess. Sew the trim from the front bottom edge of the robe, up along the lapel, around the neck and down the opposite lapel to the bottom of the robe.

3. 

   For a man, embroider or draw a green pentacle on the right sleeve or cuff. Pentacles display the degree of your Druid knowledge and become increasingly ornate with advanced knowledge.

4. 

   Add a cord in a color that matches or contrasts with the robe. In ancient times, Druid priests used a rolled cord, called Gwyddon Cord, to measure temples. This cord, used as a belt, is 9 feet long and has 5 knots. Each end is knotted, with a knot precisely in the middle and a knot exactly between each end and the middle knot.

Resources

• Symbols of Druid Identity
• A Complete Guide to Celtic Magic

[sunbirdshaman]

on 10/28/2009 Eh?? Since WHEN did Druids use the Pentacle, a Christian symbol adopted by the religion invented in the 1950s called Wicca?

"Druids considered the cloak to be their skin"?? Where on earth did you get evidence for that?

And as for the Gwyddon knot, that's something that Edward Williams (Iolo Morganwgg) came up with, it's as ancient as Tarmac.