Cross-Stitch Mandalas

I got Cross-Stitch Mandalas to do with my 11-year-old daughter, and it’s become one of our favorite weekend activities. The designs are absolutely beautiful–bright, balanced, and just mesmerizing to look at. My daughter immediately picked the “Osaka” mandala because of the pinks and violets that reminded her of cherry blossoms, and she’s been so proud watching it come together stitch by stitch.

We’ll often sit at the kitchen table with some music on, stitching side by side, and it’s honestly such a peaceful way to spend time together. The patterns have a lovely cultural and color-story theme, so it’s sparked little chats about travel, creativity, and meaning behind colors. It feels like more than just a craft–it’s a shared experience.

I found some of the designs are a bit detailed for me at this point, but that’s what makes them feel special. The instructions are clear enough for us to follow, and the results are stunning. If you’re a parent looking for something mindful and creative to share with your preteen (or even just to unwind yourself), this book is a true gem.–Michelle Smith “KidsR.Us”

Isabelle Haccourt Vautier is a cross-stitch pattern designer and author of many embroidery and cross-stitch books in her native French.