How To Make A Mandala

You can make a mandala using simple materials you see every day. This is probably one of the most therapeutic crafts, which is ideal to help boost wellbeing. Create your Mandala with your little ones or let the grandparents have a go at creating a beautiful piece of art. Research shows that acts of creative expression and social interaction can improve health, both mentally and physically in our ageing community.

A mandala is a complex abstract design that is usually circular in form. In fact, "mandala" is a Sanskrit word that means "circle". Mandalas generally have one identifiable centre point, from which emanates an array of symbols, shapes and forms.

In essence, mandalas represent the connection between our inner worlds and outer reality. Designing your own mandalas can be both inspirational and therapeutic.

You will need: 

• 15 x 15cm canvas
• A pencil
• Lollipop sticks
• Toothpicks
• Glue
• Brushes (different sizes)
• Paint (black and different colours)
• Felt tip
• Round tray

Step 1: 
Colour your canvas black

Step 2:
With a pencil, draw around a round tray for the outline of your art

Step 3:
Dot around the circle using lollipop sticks

Step 4:
Dip the glue lid in paint and use it to create circles on the inside

Step 5:
Use the brush to dot in between the circles that have been created by a glue lid

Step 6:
Use toothpicks to create intricate circles between the big circles

Step 7:
With a brush, paint over any bits that didn't come out perfect and tidy up your mandala

Step 8:
Using a different brush, use the end of it to dot different colour circles 

Step 9:
Use the lid of a felt tip to create 3D circles of various sizes

Step 10: 
Repeat with lollipop sticks and toothpicks to create different colour and size circles all around the mandala

Research shows the acts of creative expression and social interaction can improve health, both mentally and physically in our ageing community. Visit our website to find out more about sessions for the elderly in your area and how they can benefit you and your family.

Find out more about Arts and Crafts creative wellbeing sessions or find fun local creative classes, clubs, parties and events in your area today!