How to Make a Tassel-free but Diffuser-strong Mala Necklace
No need to shell out a dozen hamiltons for this must-have meditation accessory. Just make it yourself in less than 3 hours and let the boho vibes start to flow. Mala necklaces are 108 beads of self-love and intention. If you've never used them before this article at yoga journal is a great place to start.
Here's what you'll need:
1 raw gemstone bead for your Guru Bead
4 counter beads 6mm
8 accent beads 6mm (optional)
>110 rosewood beads 6mm
1 diffuser bead (you can use lava beads, aroma beads or even metallic options)
110" of nylon cord 1mm
clear natural nail polish
scissors
Instructions:
Step 1: Pre-design your necklace before stringing your beads by laying them out on a textured fabric. Use your guru bead as the necklace's center point. There will be 50 beads + 2 counter beads on both side + 4 accent beads on both sides. *I know this actually adds up to be 110 (but that's because of the two counter beads aren't considered part of the 108 meditation beads).
In your design, be aware that your accent beads will sandwich each counter bead by placing them at points 6,8, 20, and 22 on both sides. Place your counter beads at points 7 and 21.
Step 2: Prep your nylon cord by clipping the ends on an angle and adding a small dab of clear nail polish to both ends to keep it from fraying and to help harden the cord for beading. Wait till dry.
Step 3: Place your guru and your diffuser. String the guru bead and place it the very center of your nylon cord. Keep it in place by tying a small knot using both cords. Then pull both cords through your diffuser bead to help create a dangling guru.
Step 4: Separate the cord and start to string 54 beads + 2 counter beads + 4 accent beads on both sides. If you like, tie a knot after each bead for a more delicate look. Remember that your accent bead with be located at 6, your counter at 7, and another accent at 8. Repeat for locations 20, 21 & 22.
Step 5: Place your last beads on both sides and tie both strings together in multiple knots to unite the circle. This video from Miss Morning Flower is a great reference to help with the end part.
Huzzah! You've finished. Now set aside some time to sit on your mat and think of what a great craft-ician you are. Go ahead and drop of few drops of essential oils on your diffuser beads. My favorite mala scents include fennel oil or lavender oil.
XOXO,
Lemon
