Mega Mandala

Mega Mandala by Natalie Beard

What is Being Made

The Mega Mandala is a large-scale crochet wall art decoration measuring approximately 90cm by 90cm. This striking piece features a mandala design worked in the round and is mounted on a 90cm hoop (a standard hula hoop can be used as an alternative). The finished project creates a bold, geometric decorative statement suitable for home décor applications.

Craft and Technique

This is a crochet project worked in the round using a spiral construction method. The pattern begins with a magic circle foundation and builds outward through successive rounds, creating the characteristic mandala radiating pattern. The designer emphasizes maintaining an even tension throughout the work to ensure the finished piece lies flat and maintains its circular shape. The pattern is written using UK crochet terminology.

Stitches Used

The Mega Mandala incorporates several fundamental crochet stitches to build its structure:

• Magic circle (mc) – the foundation technique for starting the mandala center
• Chain stitch (ch) – used for spacing and creating the foundation chains between stitches
• Treble crochet (tr) – a taller stitch that forms the primary fabric of the design
• Double treble crochet (dtr) – an even taller stitch used in the pattern's expansion rounds
• Half treble crochet (htr) – referenced in the abbreviation list for potential use in the pattern
• Slip stitch (slst) – used to join rounds and create seamless transitions

The pattern also utilizes working into specific loop positions, including back loop (bl) and front loop (fl) techniques to create texture and definition in the mandala's geometric sections.

Materials

The Mega Mandala is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn. Natalie Beard suggests two yarn options: World of Wool Marble in Black Rock DK (requiring 3x 50g balls) or Lang Yarns Merino 120 DK in grey 0005 (also requiring 3 balls). A 5mm crochet hook is used to work with the DK weight yarn. Additional materials include scissors, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, and a 90cm hoop for mounting and displaying the finished piece.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle larger projects and more complex stitch combinations. The pattern's size and the precision required to maintain even tension throughout the 90cm finished piece present a moderate challenge.