Materials Needed:
- 100% Cotton Yarn in various colors
- Crochet Hook Size H-5.00mm
- Yarn Needle
- Scissors
- Measuring Tape
Special Stitches:
- Ch(s): Chain(s)
- Sl st: Slip Stitch
- SC: Single Crochet
- HDC: Half Double Crochet
- DC: Double Crochet
- TR: Treble Crochet
- BPSC: Back Post Single Crochet
- BPDC: Back Post Double Crochet
- FPDC: Front Post Double Crochet
- Popcorn Stitch: 5 DCs worked into one stitch, with the first loop pulled through the fifth to form a “popcorn” or petal effect
Pattern Rounds
Center Ring
Begin with a magic ring or chain 4 and join with a sl st to form a ring. Ch 3 (counts as the first DC), then work 11 more DCs into the ring for a total of 12 DCs in the round.
Tighten the ring by pulling the loose end and sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3 to close. This center creates the core of the mandala where the flower’s inner circle will be built.
First Layer of Petals
Ch 1, SC in the same stitch. In the next stitch, work a Popcorn Stitch (5 DCs in the same stitch, pull the first loop through the fifth to form a “pop” or petal effect).
Ch 1, SC in the next stitch. Continue this pattern around, alternating Popcorn Stitches and SCs to form a total of six petals.
This layer gives the mandala its floral shape, with each petal standing out from the center. Combine with a sl st to the first SC.
Second Layer of Petals (Back Post Rounds)
To add depth, sl st into the back loop of any SC between the petals from the previous round.
In each Ch 1 space, work [HDC, DC, TR, DC, HDC] to form a layered petal around the original.
Repeat this around, creating a larger, more dimensional layer of petals that extends from the initial row. Attach with a sl st to the first HDC.
Post Stitch Layer
Attach yarn to the back post of any TR stitch from the second petal round. Work BPDC around each petal stitch from the previous round, which will highlight each petal by adding texture to their base and making them more pronounced.
Continue around and bond with a sl st to the first BPDC to complete this round of post stitches.
Petal Outlines (Single Crochet Round)
SC in each stitch around to create a defined outline for each petal, adding a neat and polished edge.
This round serves as the base for the next row of petals and solidifies the structure of each petal. Join with a sl st to the first SC to finish.
Outer Ring of Petals
To create the final, largest petal layer, sl st into any SC from the previous round. Ch 3, and in every fourth stitch, work a [DC, TR, DTR, TR, DC] combination to form each petal.
This round forms a ring of large, prominent petals, framing the mandala and giving it an impressive, floral look. Link with a sl st to the first ch 3.
Final Edging
For a clean and sturdy finish, Ch 1 and SC in each stitch around, creating a smooth, uniform edge that wraps up the mandala.
This edging round also makes it easier to join the potholder to a backing or to finish with a hanging loop if desired. Unite with a sl st to the first SC, fasten off, and weave in ends.
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