Zeyda Mandala: Discovering the Beauty of Layered Textures and Stitches

The Zeyda Mandala, designed by A Yarn of Serendipity, is a stunning exploration of texture, color, and artistry. With intricate layers of front post and back post stitches, picots, and clusters, this mandala is an engaging project for the intermediate crocheter looking to deepen their skills.

Each round builds upon the last, revealing a beautifully structured piece that’s perfect for adding a handmade touch to your home decor or incorporating into larger projects like afghans or pillows.

Materials for the Zeyda Mandala

Here’s what you’ll need to create the Zeyda Mandala:

• Yarn: Choose a worsted weight (Category 4) or light worsted weight (Category 3) yarn.
  • The sample uses I LOVE THIS COTTON in the following colors:
    • A: Glowing
    • B: Bright Citrus
    • C: Deep Teal
    • D: Buttercup
• Hook Size:
  • 4.5 mm for worsted weight yarn (results in a 10” mandala)
  • 3.75 mm for light worsted weight yarn (results in a 9” mandala)
• Other Supplies: Stitch markers and a yarn darning needle

Gauge: A 4” x 4” square in single crochet should measure 15 stitches by 16 rows with a 4.5 mm hook.

Special Stitches to Master

This pattern introduces a variety of stitches that add depth and texture to the mandala. Here are a few key ones:

• Double Magic Circle: Create a secure, adjustable starting point for your mandala.
• Standing Stitch: Used to start new rounds without a slip stitch, giving a seamless look.
• Invisible Join: A technique that creates a cleaner finish by weaving in the tail instead of slip stitching.
• Front Post and Back Post Double Crochet: Essential for creating raised and recessed effects.
• Three Double Crochet-Cluster: Adds a sense of fullness and texture to the design.

Let’s Get Started

Below, you’ll find a photo of the Zeyda Mandala to guide you through the pattern. For the complete step-by-step pattern, follow the link below.

Full Pattern: Click Here

Step-by-Step Highlights

1. Starting with the Center
   • Round 1: Begin with a double magic circle and create a base of double crochet stitches. This solid foundation sets the stage for the rest of the mandala.
   • Round 2: Introduce texture with shallow back post double crochet (BPdc) stitches, alternating with chain spaces to add flexibility.
2. Building Layers of Texture
   • Round 3: Work front post double crochet (FPdc) stitches around the shallow BPdc posts from the previous round. This creates a raised effect and forms a frame for the inner rounds.
   • Round 4: Establish a new round of double crochet stitches in the chain spaces from Round 2, working in front of the FPdc stitches from Round 3.
3. Creating Flow and Movement
   • Round 5 to Round 6: Use the third loop of previous stitches and front post treble crochet two together (FPtr2tog) to form overlapping layers, adding a dynamic element to the mandala.
   • Round 7: Switch to half double crochet and chain spaces to set up for the beautiful clusters in the following round.
4. Adding Elegance with Clusters and Picots
   • Round 8: Create clusters of three double crochets (3dc-cluster) in the chain spaces, followed by chain-2 spaces for a balanced look.
   • Round 9 to Round 10: Emphasize the design with front post treble crochet stitches and decorative picots, providing a sense of delicacy and detail.
5. Finishing with Picot Edging
   • Round 12: The final round incorporates a mix of single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet stitches, accented with ch-3 picots. This elegant edging adds a refined touch and completes the mandala.

Tips for Success

1. Read the Pattern Carefully: Since each round builds on the last, it’s important to follow the instructions closely and make use of the stitch definitions provided.
2. Blocking for a Professional Finish: Blocking is key to achieving a polished, even look. It helps open up the stitches and reveal the intricate patterns created in each round. Choose a wet or steam blocking method based on your yarn type.
3. Use Invisible Joins: For a seamless transition between colors or rounds, the invisible join method is highly recommended. It gives your mandala a cleaner, more professional appearance.

A Journey of Creativity and Detail

Crafting the Zeyda Mandala is a journey that celebrates color, texture, and attention to detail. Each round offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the meditative rhythm of crochet while creating a stunning piece of art. Whether you’re making it as a standalone decoration or incorporating it into a larger project, the Zeyda Mandala is sure to become a cherished addition to your crochet repertoire. Enjoy the process and happy stitching!