Winter Scandi MAL. Part 1: Fika Embossed Mandala

Welcome to the first part of the Winter Scandi make-a-long. As announced, each of three patterns will use a new crochet technique, and today we will be making an Embossed Mandala. Technically, this pattern is not entirely embossed, but uses some embossed elements together with regular crochet to give you a gentle introduction into the technique. 

Photo credit @evakobz

If this is the first time you hear about Winter Scandi MAL, please check THIS post from the last week. To participate, you need to order instructions via Ravelry HERE and Etsy HERE, and a new pattern will be added automatically to your library weekly. If you have already purchased the patterns, then just refresh your library, and instructions for Fika Embossed Mandala should be sitting there and waiting for you. 

What is embossed crochet? It’s a technique that uses a combination or front post and back post stitches with shapes inspired by nature (usually, leaves). If you make a quick search about embossed crochet online, you will see lots of floral designs. My Fika Embossed Mandala also uses curved lines, but no puffy leaves, though. And in my opinion, this technique can be much more than just vines and leaves. Front post and back post stitches can be used for great textured pieces. 

Photo credit @evakobz

After the announcement of the Winter Scandi MAL I have received many messages about the yarn amounts. My idea was that you use up your stash for these projects. The patterns you will receive during the MAL are versatile and can be used for a variety of projects. Depending on which type and weight of the yarn you choose, and which hook size you use. 

For example, today's Embossed Mandala can make a place mat, a wall hanging, a pillow and even an area rug. I have completed two projects to show you. 

Here is a place mat I made with Scheepjes Legacy 100% cotton yarn (Nr 8 and color 089) together with 3 mm hook. It turned out to be approx. 34cm/13½ in across after blocking. Just the perfect size for regular plates. 

Photo credit @evakobz

 You can even use yarns in a new color for each mandala, to make your table setting colorful and happy. My only recommendation here is to use yarn in solid colors (or gradient yarn with long color changes, such as Scheepjes Whirl). Texture is the main player here, and you do not want to draw attention away with too many colors or variegated yarn with short repeats. 

Photo credit @evakobz

And another project I would like to show you is a large pillow made with Scheepjes Chunky Monkey yarn (100% Premium Acrylic with anti pilling effect) and 5 mm hook. You will need 4 skeins for one mandala. I made two in different colors and joined them together with double crochet stitches. For e reversible look. 

Obviously, with finer yarn (like DK or Worsted) and smaller hook, your pillow will become smaller. And with bulky yarn you can create a nice area rug. 

Photo credit @evakobz

 

I hope all your questions have been answered now, and we can give a start to Winter Scandi MAL. For pattern support, please join our group on Facebook, where this make-a-long is officially hosted. 

Happy crocheting! And see you next week!

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