The flower gaja mala is one of those details that instantly makes the Ammavaru setup feel grand and complete. It adds height, color, texture, and that beautiful layered look around the deity.
For this project, we created the gaja mala using cardboard, foam sticks, fabric, flower garlands, thread, and pins. The base is very simple, but once the flowers are layered on top, it turns into a statement piece for the whole setup.
Materials Needed
- Cardboard sheets
- Tape
- Foam sticks or pool noodles
- Flower garlands in white, yellow, green, pink, and red
- Thread and large needle
- Hot glue or strong glue
- Pins
- Red textured fabric
- Wooden sticks for support
- Table or platform
- Scissors or cutter
Step 1: Create the Cardboard Base
Start with two large cardboard pieces.
Fold each cardboard piece into three sections. This helps create a stronger base and gives the structure some flexibility. Once both pieces are folded, connect them together using tape.
After the two larger cardboard pieces are joined, tape another smaller piece of cardboard on top. This extra layer helps strengthen the center area and gives more support for the flowers that will be added later.
Step 2: Add Foam for Thickness
To make the gaja mala look fuller, wrap foam sticks around the cardboard base.
The foam adds density and gives the flower garlands something rounded to sit on, instead of lying flat against the cardboard. Secure the foam with thread so it stays in place.
Once the foam is positioned, use glue to attach it firmly to the cardboard base.
Step 3: Shape the First Flower Layer
Take the white flower garland and begin forming it into a soft semi-heart shape.
This shape creates the main outline of the gaja mala. Adjust the curves slowly until both sides look balanced. Once you are happy with the shape, secure the garland to the base using thread, glue, or pins.
This first layer becomes the guide for the rest of the design.
Step 4: Add the Yellow and Green Layer
Next, add another layer using a white garland with yellow and green accents.
Using a large needle and thread, stitch or tie this layer onto the base. This helps keep the garland secure, especially since this piece will be moved and lifted later.
Follow the same semi-heart shape so the layers look connected and intentional.
Step 5: Add the Pink and Green Layer
Repeat the same process with the pink and green flower garland.
Place it slightly inside or alongside the previous layer so the colors show without covering the white base completely. Secure it using a needle and thread.
This adds more color and depth to the gaja mala without making it look too busy.
Step 6: Wrap a Thicker Foam Stick
For the next layer, use a thicker foam stick.
Wrap another set of white and yellow flower garlands around the foam stick. This creates a fuller, more dimensional piece that can be placed around the outer or lower section of the gaja mala.
Secure the flowers tightly so they stay in place and do not shift once attached.
Step 7: Create the Red Fabric Layer
Take a foam stick and wrap it with the red textured rose fabric.
Roll the fabric around the foam and secure it with pins. This creates a bold red layer that adds richness and contrast to the softer white and yellow flowers.
Place this as the final outer layer to frame the entire gaja mala.
Step 8: Add the Red and White Flower Detail
For the top section, use a combination of red and white flowers.
Tie the flowers together at the very top using a needle and thread. This helps finish the center area and brings all the colors together.
Make sure the top section is secure, since this is often the part that helps define the overall shape.
Step 9: Attach the Gaja Mala to the Main Stand
Once the flower gaja mala is fully layered and shaped, the next step is attaching it to the main display stand.
Start by placing a sturdy table or platform where Ammavaru will be seated. Attach long wooden sticks vertically to the back of the table. These sticks will act as the backbone of the gaja mala and help hold the entire flower structure upright.
Carefully lift the arched gaja mala and place it on top of the table, positioning it around the center area where Ammavaru will sit. Adjust the arch until it looks balanced on both sides.
Using a large needle and strong thread, secure the gaja mala to the wooden sticks. Tie it in multiple places so the structure stays firm and does not lean forward or shift once the rest of the decorations are added.
After everything is attached and secure, cut away any excess cardboard around the edges. This helps clean up the shape and makes the gaja mala look more finished from the front.
At this stage, the structure should look like a grand floral arch framing the seat for Ammavaru. Once the body, saree, jewelry, and final decorations are added, the cardboard and supports will be hidden, and the gaja mala will become part of the full backdrop.
Step 10: Adjust and Secure Everything
Once all the layers are added, step back and look at the full shape.
Adjust the garlands so both sides feel balanced. Add extra thread, pins, or glue wherever needed. Since the gaja mala has several layers, securing each section properly will help it hold its shape during the final setup.
Pro Tip
Don’t worry if the cardboard base looks messy while you are building it. Once the foam, fabric, and flower garlands are added, the base will be completely covered. Focus more on getting the shape, support, and layers right.
Ways to Customize This Gaja Mala
You can easily change the look of this project based on your space and color theme.
For a softer look, use mostly white and yellow flowers. For a grander setup, add more red, pink, and green accents. You can also make the cardboard base smaller for a compact pooja space or wider if you want a fuller backdrop around Ammavaru.
Final Thoughts
This DIY flower gaja mala started with simple cardboard and foam, but the layers of flowers completely transformed it.
Layer by layer, the garlands were shaped, stitched, pinned, and secured until the simple cardboard base became a full floral frame. The white, red, yellow, green, and pink flowers added color, depth, and texture, while the arched shape helped create that grand temple-inspired look.
It was a little time-consuming because of the layering and stitching, but the final result was worth it. Once installed behind Ammavaru, the gaja mala tied the whole backdrop together. It added height, dimension, and a beautiful layered effect that made the entire setup feel complete.
