Messier mandala is finished + Spring photos

Hello friends! It has been awhile since my last post. A mid-term lull at work, new crafting projects, my dog, and prime weather have helped lift a brief bout of blues. I’m happy to get back to blogging and share a finished work, plus a heap of photos from my springtime outings.

After a slow start, the Messier mandala is finally done! I so enjoyed this meditative project that uses Miyuki glass beads from my February ’23 trip to Tokyo. I had actually planned to crochet this mandala the year before Covid hit, but I didn’t get the correct beads on my trip to Japan that year, so I decided to wait.

This galaxy-like mandala, studded with tiny glass “stars” is a pattern by Mark at The Guy with the Hook. He named it Messier as a nod to the French astronomer Charles Messier, who compiled an 18th century catalog of astronomical objects that is still referenced today.

For this project, I used Scheepjes Catona yarn in various shades (see my previous post for yarns and early stitches). This cotton yarn is one of my favorites to work with, especially for toy-making and household items. It comes in a huge variety of colors – the only reason I don’t use it more often (and indeed, any of the Scheepjes line) is that I have to order products from Europe, which can be inconvenient.

I enjoy making mandalas, because they are an exercise in focus, and this one didn’t disappoint. Over these last busy weeks, it was a relief to pick it up and do a round or two. There is enough variety throughout the work to keep it interesting, but each round is a series of repetitive stitches that allows my mind to drift a little. Adding beads kept me on my toes, and I’m rather proud that I managed to get all the beads straight without skipping any.

The last photo shows the mandala pre-blocking, which measures a whopping 106 cm (about 42 inches). After blocking, it will definitely grow. Where will I put it? Honestly, I am not sure yet! I can’t decide how I might hang it, as it’s too large for a hoop. It makes a cute tablecloth for my small patio table, but it’s a little too textured to be practical. I just know the right place will present itself at some point.

Meanwhile, spring has returned to my corner of the known universe. Since I last checked in, some of my floral favorites have come and gone – the forsythias, plum, and cherry blossoms have had their day. Lilacs are now in full effect, and last week I managed to pilfer my yearly bunch. The scent permeated my apartment for days.

How my boy Bodhi enjoys his outings this time of year, as his nose has so much more to contend with. Of all the quintessential dog behaviors, Bodhi loves sniffing most of all. His big nose is always involved with something outside. He has a mix of vermin-chasing ancestry, which could explain things.

Thank you for checking in! I promise not to stay away too long. I’m starting another amigurumi project that I think will top any other I’ve done so far – this one will move and have music! Looking forward to sharing it in an upcoming post.