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1. Introduction Drawing mandalas can be a relaxing and mindful process, as it is a visual representation of our inner being. Because of the rituals merged with it, drawing mandalas brings out meditative benefits with a focus on every stroke. But what exactly is a mandala, you ask? Derived from the ancient Sanskrit word ‘Mandal’ meaning circle, a mandala is a complex circular design that usually represents the universe and is a reflection of one’s higher self. With its roots tied to various cultural and spiritual traditions, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism, it symbolizes objects of devotion in the sacred rites and serves as a tool for meditation. Mandalas Beyond their historical significance, mandalas are enjoyed today for their beauty, aesthetics, and intricacy. More and more people are turning towards crafting mandalas not just for self-expression, but due to the therapeutic and meditative aspect as well. Drawing mandalas isn’t just mindless doodling but is a soul-hugging practice for both the viewer and the creator. Now that we have gathered enough information on a mandala, let’s go on and start making one. But before that, we need to gather our tools. The good news is, you don’t need much to get started! 2. Basic Tools Required for Drawing a Mandala Tools Required for Drawing Mandalas Sketchbook Eraser Ruler Compass Procircle/Protractor Ball/Gel Pens or Sketch Pens (Advanced) Fine-tip pens, colored pencils, paint markers, brush pens, acrylic paints, or watercolors for coloring mandalas (these are completely optional) 3. Understanding Mandala Structure At its core, a mandala consists of several geometric shapes and patterns radiating from a central point outwards. Symmetry and balance are key in drawing mandalas, as these elements contribute to the mandala’s harmonious appearance. Whether simple or intricate, every mandala starts with the same foundational principles. Once we practice basic mandalas enough, we can move on to make advanced mandalas. 4. Step-by-Step Guide to Draw a Mandala Step 1: Preparing Your Workspace Find a quiet, comfortable place to work without interruptions, preferably in natural light. Set the mood with soft music if it helps you relax. Put your thoughts aside and let your creativity flow. Step 2: Drawing Concentric Circles around the Center The center of your mandala is the focal point from which everything else will emerge. When you look at a mandala, it is the center point that holds our attention the most. So, choosing the right point as the center is equally important to drawing the other elements. Mark it lightly with a pencil. This point represents the beginning of your creative journey. Now, using a compass, draw a series of concentric circles (may or may not be equidistant) around the center point. These circles will guide your design. Pro-tip: You may use a small area around this central point of the mandala to make any symbol or to write something that relates to you at that moment. For example, you can draw an “Om” or other religious symbols, write positive quotes, or draw a flower in the center of the mandala, whatever you resonate with. Concentric Circles Around the Center of Mandala Step 3: Marking the Divisions  Using a procircle/protractor, mark divisions for your mandala. You may choose any number of divisions for your mandala. For example, if you mark at every 15 degrees, you will have your mandala divided in 24 sections. Then, using a ruler, draw lines joining each of these marked divisions to the center. This cuts the mandala layout into equal sections— just like slicing a pie. This will help ensure your mandala remains symmetrical. The basic framework or grid for your mandala is now ready. Marking Divisions in the Mandala Layout Step 4: Designing the Basic Framework Now, your mandala is really in making. Start by drawing primary shapes that will form the foundation of your design. These could be simple elements like lines, dots or simple shapes like circles, semicircles, or various petal shapes in each concentric section of your mandala. Keep moving from the center outwards and fill the layout as per your liking. The goal is to create a balanced structure that supports more detailed and intricate patterns. Now your outline of the mandala design is ready. Pro-tip: You can make the circles with single lines or double lines. Double lines help differentiate each layer of the mandala from the adjacent layers. Different Shapes for Making Patterns in a Mandala Step 5: Inking Your Mandala and Adding Patterns It’s time to ink your mandala. Use any ball/gel pen to trace over your final mandala layout. For making your artwork last long, you may use fine-tip pens for outlining (completely optional). This sharpens the design and gives it a bold look. Be patient and take your time to avoid smudges. You may erase the pencil guidelines at this point so that the final sketch is more prominent. Here comes the fun part! Now, start filling each section with patterns using the same pen. You might start with basic elements like dots, lines, teardrops and petals, gradually adding more designs, flowers, and paisleys as you advance. Repeating the patterns in a single ring/layer can help in focusing better. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns in different layers—let your creative juices take control. If you are afraid that you might make a mistake, you can add designs with a pencil and then erase them after inking with the pen. Pro-tip: Since mandalas reflect a sense of balance, your mandala will look more beautiful if you maintain the balance of black and white in it. This balance may be achieved by adding empty layers after heavily designed layers. This trick also allows your mandala to remain decluttered, spacious, and airy. This gives your mandala space to breathe! Final Outline of Mandala Patterns Added in the Mandala Step 6: Adding Depth and Definition to Your Mandala (This step is optional) Now your mandala design is ready. But to add more definition and depth to your mandala, you can darken some areas or