How to Make a Rakhi at Home: 5 Easy Ideas

A handmade rakhi will never look as polished as a shop-bought one, and that is exactly why brothers keep them. All five ideas below use things most homes already have.

1. Mauli and beads

Cut about 50 cm of red mauli. Thread three wooden or glass beads to the middle and tie a knot on either side so they stay put. Leave long ends for tying. Ten minutes, and it survives a bath.

2. Paper quilling flower

Roll thin strips of coloured paper tightly around a toothpick, let them loosen slightly, and pinch one end to make petals. Glue six petals around a rolled centre, then glue the flower onto a small circle of card. Fix it to a ribbon or thread with a dab of glue on the back.

3. Felt or foam sheet

Cut a star, flower or heart from felt or craft foam, layer a smaller shape on top in a different colour, and glue on a button or a few sequins. Stitch or glue it to a ribbon. Felt is soft on the wrist, which makes it good for small children.

4. Pom-pom rakhi for kids

Wrap wool around two fingers about forty times, tie it tightly in the middle, and cut the loops. Fluff it into a ball and tie it onto a thread. Children love making this one, and there are no small parts to come loose.

5. Seed rakhi

A clay disc with tulsi or marigold seeds inside, which your brother can plant after the festival. We have the full steps in our seed rakhi guide. Do not post it to Australia or New Zealand, where seeds are strictly controlled.

Finishing touches

Make a small card to go with it, and keep a roli-chawal packet ready. Our thali guide covers everything else you need for the morning.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to make a rakhi at home?

A thick thread or mauli, some beads or a button, glue, and scissors are enough for a simple rakhi. Add paper strips, felt or a pom-pom for variety.

How long does a handmade rakhi take?

A simple thread and bead rakhi takes about ten minutes. Quilled or felt rakhis take twenty to thirty.

Shop the story

Picked for this guide

From our family shops in Jaipur. Prices were checked when we picked them; the shop page always shows today's price.

Home linen theblockart.com Jaipuri Hand Block Cotton Bedsheets See the full range Shop now (opens in a new tab) Fancy rakhi rakhiz.com Handcrafted Ganesha Rudraksha Rakhi, Pink Thread ₹199 Shop now (opens in a new tab) Designer rakhi 32% off rakhiz.com Stunning Bond of Love Sun Stone Rakhi ₹210 was ₹310 Shop now (opens in a new tab) Bracelet rakhi rakhiz.com Modern Gold-Toned Stainless Steel Bracelet Rakhi ₹480 Shop now (opens in a new tab)

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