The Peony Mandala Cushion pattern has been intentionally designed to be very complicated, meaning that total concentration is demanded and the mind is kept fully occupied, easing depression by blocking negative or over thinking. Stitch counting is necessary, unusual and unfamiliar stitches are included (requiring tutorials which I have provided in both written and video form – see YouTube video here) and frequent changes in stitch happen from bobbles to loops to welts to leaf lace – no getting comfortable with this pattern!
The Mandala is a circular figure representing the universe in Hindu and Buddhist symbolism.
In Jungian psychology a mandala as a symbol in a dream, representing the dreamer’s search for completeness and self-unity.
The finished cushion has a 26” diameter - perfect for a summer garden floor cushion or a big squishy statement bed/sofa throw cushion.

You will need:
• 4ply/fingering/sock yarn in 7 colours for the front. The approximate quantities required are: colour A, B & C: 10g each, colour D, E & F: 50g each and colour G 25g. I used an additional 100g skein of variegated 4ply/fingering/sock weight yarn for the back, but you can use 1 or more colours from the front, or simply use fabric for the back if you prefer.

• 3.75mm circular knitting needle (you may wish to start on a set of 3.75mm dpn’s – up to you.

• 1 Stitch marker for marking the beginning of each round

• 3.75mm crochet hook

• 26” circular cushion pad (tricky to find in high street shops but readily available online or you could make your own)