Tree of Life Crocheted with a Circular Pot Featuring a Mandala

05/19/2025

The “Tree of Life” crocheted design is a stunning representation of nature and spiritual growth, captured beautifully through yarn artistry. Standing tall with twisted brown roots and branches, the tree is adorned with lush green leaves that form a circular canopy. This intricate piece is rooted in a cylindrical pot that showcases a vibrant mandala, bursting with geometric patterns in shades of turquoise, yellow, pink, and purple. The fusion of the symbolic tree and the colorful mandala evokes a sense of harmony, balance, and creative expression — making it not just a decor item, but a conversation piece filled with meaning and craftsmanship.

The Symbolism Behind the Tree of Life and Mandala

The Tree of Life has long symbolized growth, strength, and connection to all living things. Its roots dig deep into the earth while its branches reach for the sky — a reminder of our journey between the material and the spiritual. Paired with a mandala, which represents unity and wholeness, this crocheted art combines two powerful symbols. The circular mandala not only adds vibrant beauty but also emphasizes the cyclical nature of life. Together, they form a powerful visual meditation, perfect for anyone seeking to bring mindfulness and artistry into their living space.

Pattern Here

Finished Size: Approx. 35–40 cm (14–16″) tall
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Techniques Used: Magic ring, single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), front post/back post stitches, popcorn stitch, surface crochet, wire shaping

Materials

Yarn (DK or worsted weight):
- Brown (trunk/branches/roots)
- Green (leaves)
- Multiple colors for mandala (turquoise, yellow, pink, purple, etc.)
Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E) or size needed for tight stitches
Stiff Craft Wire: 1.0 mm for tree shaping
Tapestry needle
Scissors
Plastic pot or cylinder base (approx. 10–12 cm in diameter)
Hot glue (optional for assembly)

Mandala Pot Cover (Base Cylinder)

Note: This part is worked in the round and fits over the pot.

Begin Mandala Center:
- Round 1: With turquoise yarn, magic ring, ch 2 (counts as dc), 11 dc in ring, sl st to join. (12 dc)
- Round 2: Ch 3, fpdc in next dc, dc in next around. Join. (12 fpdc, 12 dc)
- Round 3-7: Continue expanding with popcorns, clusters, and color changes to build the mandala. Change colors every round for contrast.
- Block flat.
Side Panel:
- Pick up stitches around the mandala’s edge with sc.
- Work in sc rounds, changing colors every few rows.
- Continue until height matches pot. Fasten off and weave in ends.
- Seam short edge to form a cylinder and fit around the pot.

Tree Trunk and Branches

Note: Use brown yarn over craft wire for structure.

Roots and Trunk Base:
- Cut 6 strands of wire, approx. 50 cm each.
- Wrap brown yarn tightly around each wire using sc or surface slip stitch.
- Gather ends and start crocheting i-cord style roots. Twist 2–3 together to form base and begin building the trunk.
Trunk:
- Braid and twist the wires upward to simulate natural trunk flow.
- At intervals, split wires into smaller groups for branches. Continue wrapping with brown yarn.
Branches:
- Shape wires outward and upward, wrapping each with brown yarn.
- Leave ends free to attach leaves.

Leaves (Make 30–40)

With green yarn:
- Row 1: Ch 6, sc in 2nd ch, hdc in next, dc in next 2, tr in last.
- Row 2: Ch 1, rotate and repeat stitches on opposite side of chain. Sl st to first sc.
- Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Attach to Branches:
- Use tails or hot glue to attach leaves to wire tips. Shape canopy to form a circular silhouette.

Assembly

Place the mandala cover onto the base pot.
Insert tree roots into the pot (glue or secure with stuffing as needed).
Adjust trunk and branches for balance and aesthetic flow.
Shape leaves to form full, even canopy.

Tips

Use starch or fabric stiffener on the leaves if needed for crisp definition.
Add beads or charms for symbolic decoration (optional).
Secure roots around the base top edge using yarn or glue to keep the tree upright.