Dreamachine #

How to Build and Use a Flicker Device

Overview #

The Dreamachine is a simple device that uses pulsing light to stimulate your visual cortex and induce hypnagogic imagery, meditative states, or even visionary experiences.

Invented in 1959 by artist Brion Gysin and technician Ian Sommerville, it was designed as the first art object meant to be viewed with closed eyes. Today, it remains a compelling DIY gateway into non-ordinary states — with just a lightbulb, a turntable, and a cardboard cylinder.

Theory #

When your eyes are closed and exposed to rhythmic light flicker (typically 8–13 Hz), your brain synchronizes with the frequency — producing vivid internal visuals. This frequency range overlaps with alpha brainwaves, often associated with relaxed wakefulness and hypnagogic states.

The effect is entoptic: the visuals originate within the visual system itself, not from external stimuli. Patterns, tunnels, flashes, and colors emerge spontaneously — and often differ from person to person.

Step-by-Step Guide #

1. Materials Needed: #

• A record player/turntable
• A 60W incandescent bulb (ideally) or strong LED light
• A cylindrical shade (e.g., heavy cardstock or poster board)
• A Dreamachine stencil/template (many available online)
• Scissors, glue, and a way to secure the cylinder to the turntable

The original Dreamachine was designed to spin at 78rpm. However 78rpm record players are increasngly rare, so the plans below are for a 45-rpm record player. These can be bought quite cheaply from thrift stores, ebay etc.

⚠️ Important: Do not use if you have epilepsy or light sensitivity.

Printable Dreamachine stencil — trace, cut, and spin.

2. Building the Device: #

1. Print or trace a Dreamachine stencil onto a sheet of card
2. Cut out the slits carefully — these allow pulsing light to shine through
3. Roll the card into a cylinder and tape or glue it into shape
4. Place the cylinder over the lightbulb on your turntable
5. Secure it so it spins freely

The best way to do this — and one I have personally done — is to take the plans to a print shop, and ask them to blow it up to A2 size. Then get it printed onto A2 card or acrylic. Cut out the holes and you are good to go. — Void.

3. Using the Dreamachine: #

1. Dim the lights in the room
2. Sit close to the spinning device with eyes closed
3. Let the flickering light pass through your eyelids
4. Relax and observe — avoid effort or control
5. Sessions typically last 5–20 minutes

Some users report visuals immediately; others need to repeat the experience a few times.

Expected Outcomes #

Dreamachine sessions may enhance visual imagination, reveal subconscious material, or simply induce a deep calm.

Risks & Considerations #

• Photosensitivity Warning: Avoid use if you have epilepsy or light-triggered seizures
• Eye strain or dizziness is possible with long sessions
• Not a toy: The Dreamachine is intense — take breaks and ease into it
• Always use with eyes closed, and never stare directly at the bulb

Further Exploration #

• Track Your Visual Themes: Journal after each session — patterns may emerge
• Compare with Fire Kasina or Tatwa Practice
• Build a Motorized or LED-Based Version for portability and custom frequencies
• Read Brion Gysin’s Writings: Explore the artistic and esoteric roots of the device

Call for Reports #

Have you built or used a Dreamachine?
What visuals did you experience? Did it get deeper over time?