Mandala Magic by Laurence Lieblich

A mandala is a circular shaped pattern, often featuring intricate details and usually displaying repetition and symmetry in the shapes and motifs. The word mandala comes from the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit and means ‘circle’.

Traditionally, a mandala was an artistic representation of thought or meaning, which was designed to be used for contemplation or meditation. The symbol has been used for centuries in Eastern religions including Buddhism and has recently become a popular design across the world as people are learning the value of mindfulness and focus.

You can find mandalas in all kinds of places now, including in adult colouring books, being taught in art classes, or being created using knitting or crochet.

All these pursuits marry well with the mandala, as all require concentration and contemplation.

This is what the original purpose of the mandala was. From our point of view, embroidered mandalas are the ones that strike a chord. The latest project in our Handpicked series, Mandala Magic by Laurence Lieblich, is a perfect example.

The design is worked in subtle blues and greens and features a range of different flowers laid out in the traditional circular shape. At the centre is a six-petal daisy. Radiating out from the daisy are star flowers, hydrangeas and anemones, all repeating in perfectly symmetrical patterns to form a stunning mandala shape.

The choice of flowers means that the tonal range remains consistent throughout. Then, they are highlighted with the addition of scalloped circles, leaves and foliage in a complementary range of greens.

The purpose of repetitive motifs is to really encourage the stitcher to take the time to contemplate each stitch. Rather than worrying how to do the next technique or hurrying to get one motif finished so that you can start on another, Mandala Magic is perfect for settling the mind, watching the progress of the needle and the formation of each flower or leaf, and focussing one hundred percent on the task at hand.

Once you have completed Mandala Magic, the choice is yours as to how you display it. It can be framed and hung on a wall, turned into a stunning cushion, or even sewn up as a tote bag or project bag.

However you choose to complete it, Mandala Magic will remain a perfect tool for meditation.

The circular shape will encourage the eye to move from one area to the next, admiring the subtle colours and the direction of the stitches and enjoying the serenity that comes from the design, palette, and shape.

Although we all love intricate needlework designs filled with different stitches that stretch our skills with different techniques, it is wonderful to take some time to work on a project that brings nothing but relaxation and joy. Mandala Magic is that project. It is the ‘time out’ you need with your favourite needle and thread in hand.

Make Your Own Mandala Magic

Step 1 – Purchase Project Instructions

Mandala Magic by Laurence Lieblich is a spectacular, floral mandala in gentle shades of green and blue.

Step 2 – Purchase Ready-To-Stitch Kit

The Inspirations Ready-To-Stitch kit for Mandala Magic includes everything* you need to re-create this spectacular floral mandala: Fabric (unprinted), embroidery threads and needle.

*Please Note: To cater for flexibility of purchase, instructions are not included with our kits. For step-by-step directions on how to create this project, please refer to the printed pattern/digital pattern.