I was looking for ways to make your layered mandalas special, and I found it! Write or draw on the top layer. You can add a name for a birthday, or set of names for a wedding gift. And with my tutorial on how to make your own layered mandalas, the possibilities are endless!
I just did some examples to show you how. The patterns are in the download list, just follow the link below.. On the roses I have the writing added but the butterflies I left blank so that you could personalize it yourself. I put flowers and butterflies on mine.
You will need:
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- cardstock in various shades
- cardstock for the background if you want to frame it
- Glue or Foam tape
- Frame if you want to frame it
- Download File
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Paper Selection to Make Your Layered Mandala Special
This project can be made with any paper. Choose special colors to match the occasion. Patterns would interfere with the writing on the top level unless it is very subtle. Glitter paper or foil paper would add that extra bling to any layer, but avoid those papers on the top layer because the writing would be more difficult.
Cutting the Layered Mandalas
Start with the lowest layer and cut the designs upward. This is a must! Some of the other mandalas have little pieces that aren’t connected on the upper layers.
Use a pen that shows up on the top layer. Try using the We R Memory Keepers Foil pens to add some bling. Here is how they work.
Be careful removing the angels from the mat because the lines can be thin, the top layer especially.
How to Assemble to Make Your Layered Mandala Special
To make the writing or drawing on the top layer is very simple. First, for writing, decide on the text. Then type it and decide on the font. Shrink the writing so that it fits the width on the top layer. If you want it to follow the line of the paper on the top layer you may need to un-group to letters under the advanced tab at the top. Then place and rotate the letters how you want them. Make sure when you have all of the text you want, change it to draw and attach it to the top layer.
Drawings are a little easier. First make sure the drawing is a line drawing. Then shrink them and place them on the top layer where you want them. Attach them to the top layer when you have all that you want.
Now to make the mandala. As you cut the layers, build up from the bottom. Glue each layer to the one below it before you cut the next layer. This way you don’t lose the little pieces.
You can glue the layers together with foam tape or liquid glue. Foam tape adds more dimension to the project but you end up using a lot of it. You can get it at the dollar store.
Once the layers are all together, use a piece of cardstock that goes with your color scheme for a base. Frame the piece with a frame. If you used foam tape you should put foam tape between the mat and the glass along the edges to make the frame stick up far enough to give the project room. Or use a shadowbox frame.
And you know how to make your layered mandala special. Anyone will love a handmade personalized gift like these mandalas.