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GROW YOUR VISION

Designing your perfect mala necklace is a creative and personal process that allows you to express your unique style and intentions.
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Malas are not only beautiful pieces of jewelry but also have spiritual and meditative significance.
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Here's a step-by-step guide to help ignite your creative energy and get you started:

01

SET YOUR INTENTION

Decide on the intention or purpose of your mala. What do you want it to represent or bring into your life? Your intention can be related to meditation, healing, spiritual growth, or simply a personal affirmation.

02

SELECT YOUR GEMSTONES

Gemstones are an essential element of a mala necklace. Each gemstone is associated with different healing properties and energies. Research and choose gemstones that align with your intention. For example, amethyst for clarity, rose quartz for love, or onyx for grounding.

03

CHOOSE A FOCAL BEAD

Many malas have a larger bead that serves as the focal point. This bead is can be a different gemstone and often represents the main aspect of your intention.  The focal beads can be part of the 108 mala beads, placed incrementally along the way, or they can be in addition to the 108 beads, serving as points of reference or division along the way.  Sometimes only one focal bead is present, placed between the 108 mala beads and the 109th Guru piece.

04

PICK A MALA GURU PIECE

The guru bead is the 109th bead on a mala, typically larger or different in design. It symbolizes the relationship between the student and the teacher and serves as a reminder to honor your intentions. and teachers.  Tassel often serve this purpose as they represents enlightenment and can add a beautiful finishing touch. Choose a tassel color that resonates with your intention or complements your gemstones.

05

select the spacer beads

Spacer beads create space between the main beads in a mala, making it easier to count and manipulate the beads during meditation or prayer. This is particularly helpful for those with larger fingers, as it adds more room to grasp each bead.
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Spacer beads play a significant role, not only for their functional purpose but also for their decorative and symbolic qualities.  The color of spacer beads can significantly impact the overall look of your mala. You can choose a color that complements the main beads or one that carries a specific meaning or intention that resonates with your purpose.

06

CONSIDER ADDING ACCENT PIECES

Adding metal accent beads to your gemstone necklace can indeed create a more unique and chic look. Metal accent beads can introduce contrasting textures and colors to your design, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.

07

PLAN THE DESIGN LAYOUT

Download and print our creative design sheets to plan out your perfect mala.  Use pencil crayons to experiment with arrangements, patterns and colours schemes to help bring your vision into reality and help you find one that you love and that resonates with your intention.

08

CHOOSE CLOSURE KITS 

Traditionally, malas are strung with materials like silk or cotton, though you have the option to select alternatives such as nylon or elastic cord for enhanced durability and ease of use. In lieu of using seed beads, it's common to tie knots between each bead when using string. These knots carry a symbolic significance, representing the impermanence of life while also serving to maintain the integrity of the necklace.
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At The Mala Shala, our preference is to employ high-quality, durable wire, significantly reducing the risk of breakage. This method of securing your mala necessitates the use of wire, special beads, and specific tools. To augment the durability of your masterpiece, consider adding one of our closure and kit options to your order. The Mala Shala offers a variety of closure options, and each kit includes a generous 5-foot length of wire and 5-foot beading thread. This flexibility allows you to opt for the thread if you prefer not to invest in the tools required for wire stringing. Additionally, you can order extra beads and utilize the supplementary thread to create matching bracelets that complement your mala beautifully.

09

order the supplies

Place your order for the following:
  • Main Gemstone Beads
  • Guru Beads
  • Seed Beads
  • Accent Pieces
  • Closure Fittings
  • Tools

10

create

With supplies in hand lay out your beads, string your beads and secure your masterpiece by following the instruction in your closure kit.

11

bless your mala

Bless Your Mala: Take a moment to infuse your mala with your intention. You can do this through meditation, prayer, or any other ritual that is meaningful to you.

12

use & care for your mala

Wear your mala necklace to help you stay connected to your intention. Be mindful of the materials you've used and how they may be affected by sweat, water, or other elements. Gently clean and maintain your mala to ensure its longevity.

Remember that designing a mala necklace is a personal journey.  

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Your mala should reflect your unique intentions, tastes, and beliefs, making it a meaningful and beautiful piece of jewelry that you can wear or use for meditation and mindfulness.

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Let’s Work Together

Need some assistance making sure you are getting the right supplies?  Not sure how your going to fasten your masterpiece together?  Don't worry, we are here to help!  Send us an email and we be happy to answer all your questions..

Tel: 905.401.2220

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