Project introduction
This pattern overview looks at the Spring Sun Mandala Vest by Nadia Fuad of YARNutopia, a wearable mandala that starts as a circle and opens into a light vest. The sample shown uses Red Heart Super Saver Ombre in Cocoa, while an earlier prototype used Caron Cakes in Macaron. This guide explains the fit, supplies, notes, and construction at a high level.
The designer made the sample to fit herself at 5 feet 2 inches, generally wearing Small/Medium, and points readers to the notes and video tutorial for making a larger version. For the full written pattern, video guidance, and exact round instructions, follow the Original designer’s pattern and instructions. Please respect the designer copyright: do not copy, share, adjust, or resell the pattern itself.
Finished pieces made from the pattern may be sold when the maker links back to YARNutopia.com. That permission covers finished work, not the pattern text. The designer notes that pieces were first worked off camera, refined, and tested before filming, so the video shows a tested final version rather than a first draft.
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Gather these supplies before you begin, since the vest uses color changes and a single hook size throughout the main fabric. The checklist below follows the source list exactly, including both yarn colors named for the sample. Substitutions are noted separately, so you can shop with the original choices in mind.
- Red Heart Super Saver Ombre in the color Cocoa
- Red Heart Super Saver Yarn in Cafe Latte
- J-6.00mm crochet hook
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- Brooch pin
- Substitution option: Brava yarn by WeCrochet/Knit Picks
- Substitution option: Lion Brand Mandala Yarn
Notes
The source notes give a yarn estimate of 1100 yards for the project. The finished mandala measures 43 inches across (112 cm), with arm holes of 18 inches around (46cm) and shoulders across of 15 inches (38cm). The designer reports that the project took approximately 20 hours to complete, so plan it as a longer weekend or weeknight project rather than a quick evening make.
For a larger fit, use a bigger hook for a larger result and a smaller hook for a smaller result. The notes also name repeat rounds for growth: repeat Round 16, repeat Round 18, repeat Round 26, repeat Round 28, and repeat Round 31, each for 2 to 3 more rounds where the pattern indicates. For armholes, work more or fewer foundation double crochet stitches and skip more or fewer stitches. Weave in ends as you go.
The designer reports using 2 full Caron Cakes without finishing the last 2 rounds, and suggests about 3 Caron Cakes to finish the pattern. Keep the stitch key nearby, since the pattern uses post stitches, clustered stitches, and a V-stitch.
- Ch(s): chain(s)
- YO: Yarn Over
- St(s): Stitch(es)
- prev.: Previous
- Sl st: slip stitch
- SC: Single Crochet
- HDC: Half Double Crochet
- DC: Double Crochet
- DC3TOG: Double Crochet 3 Stitches Together
- DC4TOG: Double Crochet 4 Stitches Together
- V-Stitch: [Double Crochet, Chain 2, Double Crochet] in indicated space
- BPSC: Back Post Single Crochet
- FPDC: Front Post Double Crochet
- BPDC: Back Post Double Crochet
- FDC: Foundation Double Crochet
Pattern Overview
This overview does not replace the designer pattern. The vest begins with a magic ring or a chain ring, then grows outward in joined rounds. Early rounds form a small circular motif with petal shapes, open spaces, and V-stitches that set the mandala rhythm. Post stitches add texture and structure before the fabric widens.
Later sections move from a textured band into open mesh, then into a wide petal band that gives the vest its airy edge. The body continues with plain rounds that lengthen the fabric and keep the circle flat and wearable. Color changes follow the yarn or the maker choice, so the ombre or cake yarn can carry much of the visual change.
Armholes are shaped by working foundation double crochet sections and skipping stitches, which creates openings without cutting the fabric. After the armhole round, the lower body continues in rounds, then the maker fastens off and weaves in any remaining ends. Use the designer link for exact placement, stitch counts, and video help with the trickier transitions.
Check your fit as the circle grows, since mandala vests drape differently from shaped garments. If the piece feels tight across the shoulders or short in length, the notes and video explain how to expand it before you reach the armholes. A quick pause to compare the work with the stated finished size can save rework later.
This is a pattern overview, not a full tutorial. Follow the original designer page for the complete instructions.
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