Kolam by Sudha Balaji

A unique and tricky kolam - step by step tutorial  The dot pattern is 7 dots 6 rows and 6 dots 7 rows. First place the 7 dots rows and then in the gaps place the 6 dots rows Though it is small it is beautiful isn't it. The first step shows the straight lines drawn as shown in the image below starting from the centre of the dot grid The next step draw parallel lines to the previous lines connecting the respective dots The next set of parallel lines starting from the image in the previous pattern in four directions as shown in the next photo The next set of parallel lines in four directions perpendicular to the previous pairs of lines The remaining dots are connected with curved lines For further decoration we can draw lotuses or any other suitable patterns.  I have used lotus designs on all four sides. A close up of one of the lotuses being drawn to show the position of the fingers for those who may need it. This is also called bi

Kothamalli thokku - side dish for rice , idli dosa We need coriander leaves .  I have taken four clusters of coriander leaves, tamarind ,  Separate the leaves from the stems .  The stems interfere in grinding and some of them may not get ground properly Take shallots or onions an four cloves of garlic -  these are optional Take five or six red chillies Add tamarind Add little water and wet grind them in a mixer Heat oil in a pan , add mustard Add the wet ground mixture of coriander leaves Add turmeric powder - two spoons ( small as shown in the photo ) Add four spoons of dhania powder Add little chilly powder since we have already added red chillies.  If we want more kaaram ( hot ) we can add more chilly powder Heat it till the coriander leaves , onions and garlic get cooked. Close with a little because the thokku usually sputters. Once cooking is complete add salt I add jaggery also , it gives an excellent and di

Naalu kaal pinnal | Naalu kaal jadai This is a traditional hair style , beautiful and simple also. The images below take us through the steps  As usual take three plaits after combing the hair Split the right side plait into two Take one part to the left beside the centre plait Next split the plait on the left into two and take one part to the right of centre This process is repeated again and again till will we complete As shown in the photo below " the two plaits on the right and left are split into two and one part taken to the other side " These two photos below show the side view of the plaits being made This shows the close up view After completion.  Some call it the pooran pinnal in Tamil  ( pooran is centipede which has a large number of legs ) . Indians traditionally wear long hair and this is one more simple hair style that can be tried. Also as a bridal hair decoration or hair style for Seemantham or Valaik

Yellow rose decoration using petals - we need yellow roses and craft thread. I have used golden colour to match with the colour of the flowers. Remove the petals from the flowers gently.  Take four or five petals such that the outermost is the biggest. Roll the petals as shown in the image Tie a knot  around the petals as shown in the next two pics .  Bring the thread to the left side bottom as shown in the image below. Using the fingers form a loop and insert the petals in the loop and pull the string to make the knot Take the next set of four or five petals Place them next to the first set of petals Bring the string to the left between the first and second set Again form a loop with string and tie both sets of petals together.  i.e the first and second. When we place the third set of petals tie the 2nd and 3rd set of petals. The top view of the petals as shown.  Make it as long as possible to make a garland.  Such garlands can be used