This is what you need to start crocheting mandalas

What do you need to crochet mandalas? Before you start crocheting your mandala, you obviously want to know what you need to get. In this blog, I will explain everything you need!

Supplies

Crochet hooks

Crochet hook in the right size. Keep in mind that:

• Check the label of the yarn you want to use and determine which crochet hook to use.
• It doesn't matter if you use a slightly thinner crochet hook (for example, 0.5 or 1.0 smaller) than the size mentioned on the yarn label, this can give a neater result.
• If you crochet very tightly, it might be better to use a hook size larger than stated in the pattern.
• If you crochet very loosely, you can use a thinner hook than stated in the pattern.

Yarn

Choose a yarn for your mandala that you find pleasant and beautiful.

It is important that you choose yarn that you enjoy crocheting with. Choose a color that appeals to you. This is all very personal, there is no right or wrong here.

However, I always recommend to check which yarn is recommended in the pattern you want to crochet. Information about the hook and yarn used is always provided there. You can use this as a guideline to make your own choice.

Want to know more about the types of yarn you can choose and what the pros and cons are? Then read this blog.

A ring or materials for blocking

Blocking can be done, for example, in a metal ring or wooden ring. These can often be bought at craft stores, both online and in physical stores. I regularly buy smaller rings (up to 60 cm) online at crochet and knitting shops.

For larger rings, it is often more convenient to visit a physical store, because sizes above 60 cm are often not shipped (or come with high courier costs). For example, I get my rings at a local craft store.

There are many other options for blocking the mandala, such as using:

• Blocking board
• Folded towel
• Foam (play) mats
• Corkboard
  

Don't forget: you also need (rustproof) pins to pin the mandala.

A crochet pattern

Of course, you will need a fun crochet pattern! There are many options for crochet patterns. Think, for example, about the difficulty of the pattern, the size of the design, and how the pattern is written.

It is helpful if you know a little bit about what kind of mandala you want to crochet, like for example how big you want the mandala to be, and what yarn you want to use for it. That helps with choosing the crochet pattern.

Other items

Scissors and a tapestry needle are also always needed. A tape measure is also handy to have around, so you can choose the correct ring size. Stitch markers can also be useful, for example to mark the beginning/end of the round, or to mark a specific stitch.

Fun additions

You can nicely decorate a mandala with, for example, (wooden) beads. In the LKCreativeness mandalas, wooden beads in all kinds of sizes are regularly used. The size of the beads used is always mentioned in the pattern and description.

Feel free to experiment with materials you use for your mandalas. Basically, a crochet hook, yarn, and a pattern are enough to get started. So just get creative and enjoy your crochet project!