This mandala had been on my to-do list for a while. When I finally picked up the hook at the start of the year, it was to crochet Tatsiana Kupryianchyk’s (aka Lilla Bjorn) “Graphite Mandala.” The abstract geometric look is undoubtedly stunning, with the beautiful use of overlay technique resulting in a brioche look. I had made other patterns by Tatsiana before, yet this one spoke to me more than ever. I can see myself choosing different color combinations in the future, but I love the simplicity and power of monochrome black and white.
Making this mandala has been joyful and challenging (cleverly so). It is a pattern that requires focus – although the rhythm will become natural the more you crochet along. Awareness of the tension helps maintain the shape and have defined and orderly stitches. I recommend this pattern if you want to expand your crochet techniques. And yes, I may be biased because I genuinely love Tatsiana’s designs – she has recently published her first book, “A Sea Story,” which is rich in astonishing mosaic crochet patterns accompanied by gorgeous photographs and charts that make you want to make them all.
Crochet is a craft that relaxes or distracts and even focuses the mind in a meditative way. I find myself pulled to crochet by random things – nature, emotion, architecture, music, conversation, to name a few – and then choosing colors, picking up a hook, and looking for a pattern that reflects that moment, that inspiration. Conversely, sometimes, I stumble upon a specific design pattern that reflects my mind and encapsulates my thoughts. Whatever your drive to pick up a hook, crocheting is a craft worth the time and effort. It is a beautiful catalyst for growing confidence and self-encouragement, allowing you to unclutter your mind and fill it with structured and mindful peace.