How to start dotting mandalas
What is a mandala?
Mandala or magic circle, which expresses unity and harmony and originates from Indian religions. The circular shape of the mandala itself is meant to evoke a sense of infinity and offer a spiritual path.
Mandalas are currently very popular as you can relax while creating them and see incredible shifts as you paint them repeatedly. The first simple mandalas suddenly become more complex patterns and a growing sense of satisfaction grows within the person.
What do we need to create mandalas?
Do you want to start making mandalas but don't know how? What do you need to create them? Not much. If you want to get into dot mandalas you need acrylic paints and so-called dotting tools and then something to paint the mandalas on - it can be anything from a rock, paper, canvas, a diary cover, a mug, but lots more. There are no limits here.
How to start dotting
Are you all set? Then there's nothing stopping you from getting started.
For the tutorial, we chose a pebble that we painted with an acrylic-based primer. We choose acrylic paints because of their specific properties and durability. They are waterproof, lightfast and fast drying unlike oil based paints for example.
When creating more challenging patterns, it is possible to use a compass to redraw circles, but we have chosen a simple mandala that does not require redrawing.
In the instructions you can see which tools to choose from the dot set. Dip the stick lightly into the paint and place it on the pebble. The more often you place the stick on the pebble, the smaller the dot will be.
To create a fine line, just spread the dot sideways to create a fine line. No other tool is needed.
Paint the resulting mandala with acrylic lacquer and you're done :)
About the author of the article:
My name is Veronika Slavíková. I am a lawyer who needed an escape from reality and the daily stereotype in my work and discovered the power of mandalas. For me, painting mandalas is relaxation and love. I am the founder of a FB group where I spread my passion to enthusiasts like me.
FB: group Tečkování nejen na kamínky
IG: vs_mandala_art