Every year, my husband and I look forward to the flowering of the blossom trees in late spring (Hanami).

We love celebrating by making and eating various wagashi treats like this sakura-shaped namagashi.

This is a beginner friendly pattern and is quick as well as easy to make. You’ll be working in continuous rounds for the main sweet, and then add the ribs to create and shape the petals after.

I’ve included links to some helpful videos if you’re new to any of the techniques, as well as photo guides for unfamiliar stitches and construction.

You won’t need much yarn and you can vary the colours, but these are the more traditional ones when celebrating Hanami.