Mandala Tea coaster

Creating a mandala tea coaster is a fun and meditative art project that results in a beautiful, functional piece of art. Below is a step-by-step tutorial to guide you through the process.

Materials Needed:

• Wooden or cork coaster (round or square)

• Gesso

• Acrylic paint (various colors)

• Dotting tools (can use a stylus, toothpicks, or the end of a paintbrush)

• Paint palette

• Pencil and compass (for drawing the guide circles)

• Ruler

• Varnish

• Paintbrush (for base coat)

• Paper towel or cloth (for wiping tools)

Step-by-Step Tutorial:

1. Prepare Your Coaster:

• Base Coat: Start by applying Gesso on the coaster. Then paint a base color on your coaster. This will be the background color of your mandala. Choose a color that contrasts nicely with the colors you plan to use for the dots. Let it dry completely.

2. Draw Guide Lines:

• Find the Center: Use a ruler to find and mark the center of the coaster. If using a round coaster, simply mark the center point.

• Draw Circles: Use a compass to draw concentric circles around the center point. These will serve as guides for your mandala pattern. You can add as many circles as you like, depending on how detailed you want your mandala to be.

• Divide into Sections: Use your ruler to draw straight lines from the center to the edge, dividing the coaster into equal sections, like slicing a pie. This will help you keep your dots symmetrical.

3. Begin Dotting:

• Start at the Center: Begin by placing a dot in the very center of the coaster using a dotting tool or the end of a paintbrush. This will be the starting point of your mandala.

• Work Outwards: Start adding rows of dots around the center dot, following your guide circles. Use different sizes of dots by changing the pressure on your tool or using different-sized dotting tools.

• Vary Colors: Alternate colors as you move outward. You can follow a color pattern or use random colors to create a more spontaneous design.

• Layering Dots: For a more intricate design, you can add smaller dots on top of larger ones after the first layer dries.

4. Continue Building Your Mandala:

• Symmetry: Ensure that your dots are symmetrical by placing the same number of dots in each section, using your guide lines to keep them even.

• Experiment: Feel free to experiment with shapes and patterns as you work. You can create petal shapes, spirals, or concentric circles within your design.

5. Finish the Design:

• Final Touches: Once your mandala is complete, let it dry thoroughly. You can add extra details like tiny dots or outlines around larger dots for more complexity.

• Seal the Coaster: If you want to protect your design and make your coaster more durable, apply a layer of varnish over the top. This will give it a nice finish and protect it from moisture.

6. Enjoy Your Mandala Tea Coaster:

• Your mandala tea coaster is now complete! Use it to brighten up your tea time, or make a set as a beautiful handmade gift.

Tips:

• Practice First: If you’re new to dot mandala art, practice on a piece of paper or a spare coaster before starting your final piece. Refer to my earlier tutorials on beginner dot mandala excercises.

  
  

• Keep Tools Clean: Wipe your dotting tools between color changes to keep the colors vibrant and crisp.

• Patience is Key: Take your time and enjoy the process. The beauty of mandala art is in its repetitive and calming nature.

Feel free to personalize your design and experiment with different colors and patterns. The most important part is to have fun and let your creativity flow!