This collection of free Lion Brand Mandala crochet patterns includes beanies, scarves, blankets, sweaters, mittens and more. Go ahead and paint your world colorful with this magical self-striping yarn!
All of these gorgeous patterns that use Mandala yarn are free. Many are even easy enough for beginners.
This collection of Mandala yarn free crochet patterns is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarn. This post contains affiliate links.
Free Crochet Patterns Using Mandala Yarn
From cozy blankets to stylish sweaters and scarves, there’s something for every level of crocheter in this collection of free crochet patterns to make with Lion Brand Mandala yarn. The stunning color combinations in Mandala yarn make it perfect to add some flare to your wardrobe or home.
All the different colors and magical combinations are just such an invitation to dream about a new project, aren’t they?
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What to Make With Mandala Yarn
What I love about this yarn besides the magical way it creates stripes with zero ends to weave in is that it’s slightly thinner than a worsted weight yarn (category 3/dk), so you get a lot more yardage in one skein. About 590 yards! That’s enough yarn to make and entire small shawl or scarf with one single cake of yarn.
Lion Brand Mandala can be used for almost any crochet project including:
- Beautiful scarves and shawls and wrap patterns
- Baby blankets and larger throws
- Sweaters and cardigans
- Accessories like mittens and hats
Types of Mandala Yarn
As if the original Mandala is not enough eye candy, there are even MORE colors and weights in the other lines of Mandala yarn Lion Brand has released.
Here are the other types of Mandala yarn:
Colors of Lion Brand Mandala Yarn
While many of the options of Mandala yarn have previously been a mix of bright colors, there are now some more neutral colors that are gorgeous for garments or afghans. If you prefer a more muted, painterly look, the super popular Mandala Ombre Yarn is definitely the way to go.
You can see all the colors of the original Lion Brand Mandala yarn here (including lots not pictured below!)
Gradient Effects You Can Create
The multi-color quality of cake yarn also means you can hold a few strands together to create really interesting color effects. My mom and I used three strands Mandala yarn held together to make these cross-stitch-style pillows last summer.
Isn’t it cool how the ombre effect is accentuated by holding multiple strands together?
You can also consider taking Mandala yarn apart to create a variety of individual colors. This is a fun technique to use when you want to create custom color gradients. It also works well as an very economical way to get several colors of yarn without buying individual skeins and adding extra cost to your project.
How to Substitute Mandala for Another Yarn
Have you found the most incredible pattern and now you’re wondering if you can use a Mandala yarn to crochet it? Consider the yarn weight and hook size recommended in the crochet pattern you’d like to make. The original Lion Brand Mandala is classified as a category 3, light yarn, meaning it’s a bit thinner than worsted weight yarn.
When you’re looking for crochet patterns to use Mandala yarn in, search specifically for patterns that call for a category 3 weight yarn. (This is sometimes also called DK weight yarn.)
Finding the Right Patterns
Try searching Ravlery.com and filtering crochet patterns by yarn weight. Select only category 3 and DK weight yarns. This will help you narrow in on patterns where Lion Brand Mandala yarn could work well.
Of course, if you’d like to use one of the thicker variations of Mandala, you’ll want to filter the patterns based on whatever weight category that yarn is.
RELATED: How to Shop Your Stash: The Best Patterns for Using the Yarn You Have
Don’t Forget to Check Your Gauge
One tip that always applies in crocheting is to check your gauge! This is how you will know if Mandala yarn is a good substitute to use for your crochet project. Remember, it’s always okay to adjust your hook size to meet the pattern gauge.
Okay! Now onto the free crochet patterns to make with Mandala yarn!
Lion Brand Mandala Free Crochet Patterns
We’ve collected the best free crochet patterns to make with Mandala yarn. Many of these patterns are quite easy and some can be crocheted with one skein of Mandala. Enjoy!
1. The Madeline Crochet Triangle Scarf by Ginger Knots – Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to the Madeline Crochet Triangle Scarf by Ginger Knots. Using one skein of Mandala yarn and the moss stitch, this is an ideal pattern for beginners, especially because it includes a video tutorial.
2. The Orchid Lace Baby Blanket by Crocheting Crazy – I love how cheerful this Mandala baby blanket pattern is. And the border! Isn’t it stunning? You can see this baby blanket worked in Mandala yarn here and get the free crochet pattern here.
3. The Crunching Leaves Mod Crochet Scarf by Left in Knots – Grab your Mandala yarn, crochet hook, and pumpkin spice latte! This Mod Crochet Scarf by Left in Knots uses the star stitch and the Mandala “Centaur” colorway to create a beautiful not-too-thick, not-too-thin triangle scarf. The warm colors will have you waiting for a cool day to play in the leaves.
4. The Crochet Mandala Cowl by Crafty Tutorials – The lightweight Mandala yarn and elegant fringe adds to a beautiful drape and texture on this free Mandala yarn crochet cowl. The cool tones of the Mandala “Mermaid” colorway will leave you daydreaming of sandy beaches and ocean mist.
5. The Crochet Hat and Mitts by Lion Brand – Whip up two crochet projects for the price of one! All you need is one skein of Mandala yarn to make this adorable matching hat and mitts set.
6. The Crochet Motif Scarf by Lion Brand – The unique construction of this Crochet Motif Scarf by Lion Brand is perfectly suited for the self-striping Mandala yarn.
7. The Spring Bean Crochet Cowl by Little Monkeys Crochet – This Spring Bean Crochet Cowl by Little Monkeys Crochet has me in the mood for some mint ice cream! I love how the simple texture, created by the bean stitch, shows off the calming colors of the “Genie” Mandala yarn. This is a surprisingly easy pattern.
8. The Crochet Chroma Hat by Left in Knots – The simple Crochet Chroma Hat will be your next go-to free crochet hat pattern. The basic pattern works up quickly and is easily adjustable for different sizes.
9. The Mandala Crocheted Blanket Bag by Mama in a Stitch – A bag and a blanket, all in one! Using mostly double crochet stitches, this Mandala Crocheted Blanket Bag works up quickly and will make all your adventures a little more convenient (and colorful!)
10. The Crochet Whitby Baby Blanket by Lion Brand – This crochet baby blanket has a clean, geometric look and is worked in one piece using easy stitch patterns. The best part is you can choose any Mandala yarn colorway to personalize the blanket for the the little recipient.
11. The Wrap Me in Diamonds Crochet Scarf by Stitching Together – Who knew that single crochet and double crochet could create such an elegant scarf? The diamond lace stitch does just that in this beautiful crochet scarf by Stitching Together.
12. The Colorblock Crochet Cardigan by Croyden Crochet – The various stitches and vibrant colors of the “Pegasus” Mandala colorway make this Colorblock Crochet Cardigan one of most fun alliterations you’ll ever make.
13. The Beginner’s Delight Crochet Afghan by Lion Brand – This afghan has surprisingly few ends to weave in thanks to the self-striping Mandala yarn and should be a cheerful staple on everyone’s couch.
14. The Adirondack Wrap by 1 Dog Woof – Calling all geometry lovers! This amazing Adirondack Crochet Wrap by 1 Dog Woof is created by connecting three large triangles to form a trapezoid. Wear it as a wrap or as a scarf–you won’t need a math degree to make this simple shawl pattern.
15. The Swallowtail Cardigan by Two of Wands – The construction of this cardigan is based on two simple panels. If you can crochet a rectangle, you can make this crochet cardigan pattern!
16. The Granny in the Sky With Diamonds Crochet Baby Blanket by Polly Plum (PAID PATTERN) – While this Mandala crochet pattern isn’t free, I just had to include it because I think it’s such a beautiful and delicate use of this yarn. And you can make it with only three cakes of Mandala!
More Mandala Yarn Patterns
There are new gorgeous Lion Brand Mandala crochet patterns published every month by talented designers. I couldn’t resist adding a few more to the original collection of crochet patterns!
Ombre Pillow Pattern With Cross Stitch
How to Crochet a Shawl with Video Tutorial
Sweaters + Cardigans
If you love color or hate weaving in ends, Mandala yarn can be a great easy care choice for crochet sweaters. These crochet sweater patterns are all quite easy and really show off the fun colors of Mandala yarn.
Mandala Remix Cardigan
Mandala Yarn Cardigan (With a Hood!)
Lion Brand Mandala Endless Eyelets Cardigan
RELATED: Revival Modern Granny Square Cardigan Pattern + Tutorial
Point Hope Cardigan
Wasilla Mandala Poncho Pattern for Adults
Wasilla Mandala Poncho Pattern for Kids
One Skein Crochet Patterns
One of the best parts of crocheting with Lion Brand Mandala is that you can often make a beautiful project with just one Mandala cake. Grab your favorite colorway of yarn and choose a one skein Mandala yarn crochet pattern. You’ll have a finished fast crochet project in no time!
Cake Yarn Chroma Mittens
Easy Triangle Scarf
Strata Beanie With Surface Stitches
Mandala Sparkle Triangle Shawl
Mandala Yarn Crochet Blanket Patterns
Of course I had to include lots of Mandala yarn crochet blanket patterns because this yarn is so versatile for making blankets.
From baby blankets to afghans and throws, Mandala yarn provides a lot of yardage for your buck. And because there are almost 600 yards/skein, you won’t have as many ends to weave in when you crochet blankets with Mandala yarn.
PRO TIP: Sometimes the most magical color effects happen when you hold two strands of Mandala yarn together. For a very simple crochet blanket using Mandala yarn, grab your two favorite colorways and treat them as one strand of yarn in a pattern that calls for worsted weight yarn.
Baby Blankets
Here are smaller crochet blanket patterns that use Mandala yarn. These free crochet patterns are perfect for making baby blankets and lapghans.
Crochet Flower Garden Hexagon Blanket
Tributary Baby Blanket Pattern
Mandala Centaur Afghan
Mandala Mulberry Crochet Afghan
Mandala Ripple Baby Afghan
Throw Blanket + Afghans
These Mandala yarn crochet blanket patterns are larger in size. Use them to crochet a throw blanket for the back of the couch or end of your bed.
Painterly Square Afghan
Two Directions Afghan
6-Day Mandala Boom Blanket
Mandala Tweed Stripes Blanket
Subtle Squares Baby Blanket
Prism Boxed Block Stitch Blanket
Daphne Granny Stitch Afghan
6-Day Star Blanket
Tunisian Honeycomb Ripple Baby Blanket
Cake Yarn Woodland Houndstooth Blanket
Crochet Kits That Use Lion Brand Mandala
If you love the simplicity of getting all the yarn you need for a project AND the pattern all at once, these crochet kits are for you. If you’re considering buying one, be sure you’re subscribed to my emails, because I’ll let you know when there’s a great sale.
- Chroma Stripes Blanket – uses original Mandala
- Mulberry Afghan – uses Mandala Ombre
- Monstera Garden Blanket – uses Mandala Ombre
- Endless Eyelets Cardi – uses original Mandala
- Inside Out Sweater – uses Mandala Ombre
- Shell Wave Shawl – uses Mandala Baby
- Earl Grey Wrap – uses Mandala Baby
Additional Resources
- Learn How to Deconstruct Mandala Yarn Cakes to Create Custom Gradients
- If you love Mandala as much as I do, you might like to join this Facebook group where people share and discuss crochet and knit patterns that can be made with Mandala yarn. I’m not affiliated with this group, but I am a member of it and I’m thrilled that it exists for Mandala yarn lovers like us!
That was so fun! Now what?
Invitation to our Facebook group
Come discuss your favorite Lion Brand Mandala crochet patterns and lots of other crochet projects and techniques in our Make & Do Crew Facebook group. Here thousands of helpful crocheters answer each others questions and share their stitches. Come join us here.
Lori says
Our Michael’s and regular WalMart carry it here in Texas. I’ve noticed that they don’t all carry the same variety, but you take what you can get!
Phyllis Reyna says
On one of the patterns I was reading through on here and the comments posted from other crocheters, some were wondering where to purchase the Mandala yarn. Some said they had found it at some WalMart stores. I went looking for it today and Voila’ WalMart (super store) has loads of it. I love it. I do not have a Michaels nearby so I was sad that I would have to travel to get it. Thank you Walmart for carrying it. Just letting other people know about this. Thank you.
Katherine Mustello says
That is a lot of patterns! I do love yarn that does some of the hard work for you. Thanks for all the inspiration.
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Yes–the worst work! (Weave in the ends!) 😉
Happy crocheting, Katherine!
Jess
Tracy King says
Great roundup Jess, thanks ?
Traci says
I’m in love with the pillows you made from the Mandala yarn! Do you have a pattern for them? I’m also so glad I came across the article on patterns for Mandala. I love this yarn and am always looking for something I can make with it?
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
I love Mandala too!
I haven’t written the pattern up for those, but it’s basically three strands of Mandala held together to work tight single crochet. We cut out sections of the color so that each color could be represented in the pillow. Purl Bee blog has a great tutorial on cross stitching on crochet too if you’d like to add that part. 🙂
Carrie says
These patterns are all lovely (fellow Mandala lover here!) , but I’m most obsessed with the pillows you made!! Any chance you’ll be releasing a pattern for those bad boys anytime soon?
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Thanks so much, Carrie!
I haven’t written the pattern up for those yet, but it’s basically three strands of Mandala held together to work tight single crochet. We cut out sections of the color so that each color could be represented in the pillow. Purl Bee blog has a great tutorial on cross stitching on crochet too if you’d like to add that part.
Maybe I should write that pattern up. 🙂
Julia Peak says
I have so much trouble trying to set up an account with you crochet site , why? You should make it easier for senior citizens, thanks.
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Hey Julia,
There is no account to set up. When you subscribe to the emails, you’ll immediatly receive an email with the password to enter the vault. (It’s the same for everyone.)
Once you’re in the Vault, scroll to the photo of the project you’re looking for and click the link directly below the photo to access the PDF. (The link below that takes you back to the tutorial with the full photos in case you want to reference them while you work.) Once you open the PDF in your internet browser, you can right click to download it.
Hope that helps!
Jess
Tracy McDonald says
Where do I click to see the patterns themselves? All I see is your post of pictures for them.
Tracy
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
You can just click the title of the pattern which is linked to the actual pattern. (So the name of the pattern right by the number: 1. , 2. , 3…)
Jess
Jodi says
Those pillows are adorable! Are they just single crochets with the cross stitch on top?
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Yes! They are! 🙂 And thank you!
Cheryl says
I have used this yarn for a double sided blanket. I have used colors that are my husband’s favorite for one side and my favorite co!or’s for the other. I love this yarn!!!
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
That sounds gorgeous! What is a double sided blanket? I’m not sure I’ve seen one. What a fun his and hers project though!
April says
I have only done it in single crochet. The result is twice as thick as a normal afghan worked in single crochet. As a result, it also uses twice as much yarn.
You start by making a chain the length that you want for the width of the afghan in Color A
Row 1: work SC all the way across in Color A.
Row 2: Work SC all the way across using Color B, in back loops only.
Row 3: Change colors again and then work SC all the way across, using back loops, and the unused loop from previous row of same color.
Keep working Row 3 till the length you want.
This same pattern, when worked in a solid color of #10 granny cotton and a size 7 steel hook, makes a good strong, long lasting fabric for purses, or at the very least, purse handles, which come out like flat rope.