DIY Eames Inspired Mobile

The Eames' are some of my creative idols. Not only was their work prolific and diverse (architecture, furnishings, fabric prints, toys, fantastical sculptures, film) but they were their most active during my favorite era in design - the 1950's and 60s. I'm really into mid century fabric prints and on of my favorites is their "Dot Pattern."

Ray Eames and her "Dot Pattern" 1947. Photo via American Treasures of the Library of Congress

This print is simple, but has so much movement. It always reminded me of mobiles, and since I'm still working on my bedroom redesign I thought it would be fun to make a mobile inspired by the "Dot Pattern" print to go in the room. I love that mobiles add energy and interest to a space. They're also really relaxing to watch - whoever said they were just for babies? :)

This mobile is very simple to make, and inexpensive, too! The supplies cost me less than $10, and as usual, I still have some supplies left over. So let's get started!

Here's what you'll need to make an Eames Inspired Mobile for yourself:

• Wood dowels. I used 2, 36" lengths. 5/16" diameter
• Wood balls. I used 1" Dowel Caps with pre-drilled 3/8" holes. This size fit the dowels perfectly. They came in a bag of 16
• Wood glue
• Clear monofilament, fishing line, or beading thread. I used 0.25mm monofilament cord, found in the jewelry section at the craft store
• Black spray paint
• Clear spray sealer (optional)
• Additionally: scissors, something to cut the dowels (I have one of these from my model making days and it's great), screw hook for the ceiling

Spray paint the wood balls with a few coats of the black paint, enough to get even coverage. Spray seal the dowel rods (not necessary, but it does improve the wood tones on the dowels). Decide on an arrangement and cut the dowels to size. I used 5 pieces, 18" 14", 10", 8", and 6" lengths.


Glue the balls to the end of each dowel and let dry.


Cut a length of monofilament longer than you think you'll need, about 4'. Starting with the piece that will be on the bottom of the mobile, tie a square knot tightly around the center of the dowel. Hold the monofilament in one hand and balance the dowel, scooting it back and forth until you find the center point and the dowel hangs evenly on each side. Allow about 4" of line, and tie on the second to last piece, tying a tight square knot and then balancing. Repeat with the other 3 pieces. Add a dot of glue over each knot to keep it from moving if you'd like.



Tie a loop in the end of the line and hang from a hook in the ceiling. Watch it move! I love how the clear line makes it look like the pieces are floating. Just a little bit of air movement is all you need to get it to spin. It looks different from every angle.


Baci loves it, too! Have a great weekend! I'm a vendor at Patchwork Show in Oakland this Sunday, so stop by if you're in town.

P.S.  Wondering which plants would suit your Eames Case Study House best? (We can dream, can't we?) Check out this post from the archives.