Mala Beads Collection
Mala beads have been used in Buddhist and Hindu prayer ceremonies and mediation for centuries. During these times, they're typically used to aid in counting the number of repetitions of mantras or phrases. They usually include 108 beads and a decorative tassel on the end. Their meaning is deeply symbolic and spiritual, however, they have also found a place in the new age community, and are used in meditation and yoga practice for concentration and mindfulness.
In recent years, malas have also become somewhat of a fashion statement too with Bohemian style and flair. In additon to wood, and bone beads and a tassel, if you make your own mala, you can also use gemstones for added energy and healing powers.
The most well-known use today is for improved focus and controlled breathing during yoga and meditation, or when praying. You can read more about How Can I Use My Beads? Here!
Types of Mala Beads We Carry
We would like to introduce you first to our beautiful Greenery Green Bone Mala bead. This is for our color lovers! They add joy and excitement and were made exclusively for us to share with our lovely customers. They were handcrafted in Nepal and made from yak bone. Each bead is about 8x6mm with a 2mm hole. We also have many other colors of bone bead malas, including purple, peach, burgundy, and rose pink.
Next up, we have our Sandalwood Aromatic bead. These natural beauties run in a variety of sizes which you can find on our main Mala Beads page. They have an outdoorsy scent to them and appear woodsy and earthy. They make for wonderful spacers! Sandalwood is a tradional wood used for malas in India.
How about adding some Golden Glow to the mix! With their metallic appearance, these coated bone beads will look amazing with any color tassel! The holes are 2mm so they are great for using with elastic.
The Ethiopian Brass and Copper Hollow bead is "light as a feather". They are from Ethiopia and are made of two semi-circles soldered together. You can see their delicate seams which adds to their rustic and tribal beauty. Each bead is 9x12mm.
How Can I Use Mala Beads
As mentioned, Malas can be a great addition to your meditation practice or for style. To make a Mala necklace, you will need to cover the full anatomy of a Mala which includes the beads (108 in count), a Guru bead, a tassel and overhand knotting. A Guru bead is the bead that the tassel attaches to. The overhand knotting makes the Mala stronger.
Before you begin, make sure you have these supplies.
- 108 beads in 6 mm or 8 mm size
- Use a bead with a hole size of 0.8 to 1 mm
- 5 feet of 1 mm waxed cotton or hemp cord
- For shorter Malas, use a shorter amount of cord
- Waxed cotton or hemp will ensure a strong and durable Mala
- 1 guru bead
- A guru bead can be a large bead, charm, or anything with a hole large enough so that two pieces of your cord can fit through successfully
- 1 tassel
- Be creative with your tassel; it can be made of a variety of different materials including silk, cotton, horse hair, or even leather
- Scissors
- Nail polish or glue to coat the ends of the string
For the step-by-step instructions, please click visit our tutorial here.
Find Quality Beads Today
At WomanShopsWorld, we take pride in offering quality, handcrafted goods. We are a family-owned company and value ethical and responsible sourcing and production from our artisans around the world. Our handmade goods are designed to inspire a sense of wanderlust and fascination with the world, and remind us all of our interconnectedness and ability to find the magic in the details. You can contact us here!