Every year, my husband and I look forward the flowering of the blossom trees in late spring (Hanami as it’s known in Japan).

We love celebrating by making and eating various wagashi treats like these strawberry filled mochi (or daifuku).

The pattern is suitable for advanced beginners as it’s made using very basic stitches, but some of the construction techniques may be new to you. I’ve therefore included photo guides throughout to help you follow along, as well as links to videos for any potentially unfamiliar stitches.

It’s a relatively quick make and is both simple and satisfying. What I love best about this pattern though is that you can interact with the finished result!

You’ll make the mochi ‘shell’ in 2 halves, then the red bean paste filling for each half. Next, the 2 halves are joined together, and finally, you’ll make the strawberry to stuff the mochi. The strawberry isn’t attached in any way, it’s just held in place by the mochi, so it’s a lot of interactive fun for kids (and adults) to play with and ‘make’ themselves.