With Diwali just around the corner, preparations will be coming to a head at home. You might be asking yourself the following questions: Have I prepared enough food? (you’ve made enough to feed an army) Did I remember to order the fire crackers? (you probably have) Have I invited all the relatives? (a couple of names may have accidentally/on-purpose slipped off the invite list... we’re not judging).


Excitement is running high and things could be getting a little hectic, but you know it will all be worth it when the day comes. 


To de-stress prior to kick off, why not grab a soothing cup of chai (or something stronger) and create some rangoli art? Whether you’re getting involved in the decorating yourself or passing this onto the kids to keep them busy while you take a breather, we’ve prepared a list of inspirational rangoli designs to get those creative juices flowing.  

Rangoli Styles

Rangoli patterns are distinguished by their beautiful symmetry, precision and vibrant array of colours. The unique and intricate designs usually have religious or cultural significance but all designs represent warm hospitality; with the different colours symbolising purity, health, prosperity, happiness, sacrifice and harmony

 Have a look at some of these fun freehand or stencilled styles to try at home:

Geometric


Flowers

Otherwise known as Onam Rangoli: the flowers used for rangoli are usually roses or marigolds, green leaves are also used to complete the colour palette


Peacock Motif



Rangoli Materials

Paint powders are probably the most common material used for rangoli - they can be found in all sorts of stunning colours. Modern interpretations tend to bring traditional patterns to life using 3D objects. You could even incorporate Diwali diyas into your designs to really make things sparkle. 


Here are some materials to try using for your rangoli creations:

Rangoli Paint Powders 

Rice 

Edible Rangoli! 

For a less healthy version than the one below, why not bake a cake and embellish it with stunning rangoli patterns using colourful icing?



You really can let your creativity run free when it comes to rangoli art. This year, why don't you try using materials around the house that would otherwise be thrown away? Sustainable art is very in vogue at the moment!


Take a look at some recyclable materials you could use:

  • Buttons
  • Old CD's/ DVD's
  • Chutney lids/ Jam lids
  • Plastic bottle lids
  • Grains and lentils
  • Newspaper
  • Pencil shavings

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