There’s something especially charming about combining delicate lace crochet with a cute animal design, and this Panda Lace Applique Coaster Crochet Pattern does exactly that. I’ve made similar panda-themed appliques several times for gifts, decorative mug mats, and even craft fair displays, and they always attract attention.

What I particularly enjoy about this project is how the bold black-and-white panda design stands out beautifully against the delicate lace background. During testing, I found that cotton yarn provides the crispest stitch definition, helping the lace maintain its shape while keeping the panda details clear and recognizable.

Although this project is labeled as intermediate, anyone comfortable with basic lace techniques and simple shaping should find it enjoyable. The finished piece works wonderfully as a decorative coaster, applique, mug rug accent, or thoughtful handmade gift for panda lovers.

Finished Size

Approximately 4–4.5 in (10–11.5 cm)

What You’ll Need

Materials

Cotton crochet thread or sport-weight cotton yarn:

• White
• Black
• Crochet hook 2.5 mm–3.0 mm
• Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Fabric glue (optional)

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch = chain
• sl st = slip stitch
• sc = single crochet
• hdc = half double crochet
• dc = double crochet
• tr = treble crochet
• inc = increase (2 sts in same st)
• st = stitch
• sp = space
• rnd = round
• rep = repeat
• FO = fasten off

Main Lace Background

Using WHITE yarn.

Round 1

Magic Ring.

Work:

ch 3 (counts as dc)
15 dc into ring

Join with sl st to top of beginning ch-3.

(16 dc)

Round 2

ch 4 (counts as dc + ch 1)

In each st around:

(dc, ch 1)

Join with sl st into 3rd chain of beginning ch-4.

(16 dc, 16 ch-1 sps)

Round 3

sl st into first ch-1 sp.

(ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in same sp.

*Skip next dc.

In next ch-1 sp work:

(3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc).*

Rep around.

Join with sl st.

(8 shell groups)

Round 4

sl st into first corner sp.

ch 1.

In each ch-2 corner work:

sc
ch 5
sc

Repeat around.

Join.

(8 ch-5 loops)

Round 5

sl st into first loop.

Work in each loop:

7 dc

Repeat around.

Join.

(56 dc)

Scalloped Border

Change to BLACK.

Round 6

Skip 1 st, 7 dc in next st, skip 1 st, sl st in next st.

Repeat around.

Adjust spacing as necessary to create 14–16 rounded scallops.

FO.

Panda Head

Using WHITE.

Round 1

Magic Ring.

6 sc in ring.

Round 2

inc in each st around.

(12 sc)

Round 3

(sc, inc) around.

(18 sc)

Round 4

sc around.

FO leaving long tail.

Flatten slightly into an oval.

Panda Ears (Make 2)

Using BLACK.

Magic Ring.

6 sc in ring.

Join and FO.

Sew to top of head.

Eye Patches (Make 2)

Using BLACK.

ch 4.

Work 2 sc, hdc, 3 sc in last ch.

Continue opposite side:

hdc, sc.

Join.

FO.

Sew onto face.

Eyes

Using WHITE embroidery.

Work a small satin stitch inside each eye patch.

Nose

Using BLACK embroidery.

Create a tiny triangle.

Mouth

Using BLACK embroidery.

Embroider a small curved smile below nose.

Panda Body

Using BLACK.

ch 8.

Row 1

sc in second ch from hook and across.

(7 sc)

Row 2

ch 1, turn.

dec, 3 sc, dec.

(5 sc)

Row 3

sc across.

FO.

Shape into a curved body and sew.

Arms

Using BLACK.

Make 2.

ch 6.

sl st back along chain.

FO.

Sew so the panda appears to be holding bamboo.

Legs (Make 2)

Using BLACK.

Magic Ring.

6 sc in ring.

Join.

FO.

Attach at lower body.

Paw Pads

Using WHITE embroidery.

Add 1 center pad and 4 toe marks to each foot.

Bamboo Branch

Using BLACK.

Stem

ch 18.

sl st back along chain.

FO.

Leaves

For each leaf:

ch 7

sl st, sc, hdc, sc, sl st back down opposite side.

Make 5 leaves.

Arrange along stem.

Sew or glue in place.

Assembly

Center panda head on lace background.

Attach body slightly below head.

Position feet at lower edge.

Attach bamboo diagonally from lower left to upper right.

Sew arms over bamboo.

Add embroidered details.

Block lightly to flatten lace background.

Designer Notes

The original sample uses strong black-and-white contrast, typical of amigurumi-style panda motifs.

Cotton yarn is recommended to preserve stitch definition.

Blocking is highly recommended for achieving the crisp lace appearance seen in the photo.

For a coaster-sized piece, use 2.5 mm hook; for a larger applique, use 3.0 mm hook.

My Experience & Practical Tips

After making several lace appliques over the years, I noticed that small details make a huge difference in the final appearance of this Panda Lace Applique Coaster Crochet Pattern.

One of the most common beginner mistakes is pulling the lace rounds too tightly. When the chains in Round 4 become overly tight, the lace loses its delicate open look. Keeping a relaxed tension helps the coaster lay flatter and creates cleaner loops.

For the panda face, take a little extra time when positioning the eye patches before sewing. Even moving one patch by a few millimeters can completely change the panda’s expression.

If you’re using sport-weight cotton yarn, make sure your stitches remain consistent throughout the lace background. Uneven tension becomes much more noticeable in lace projects than in traditional amigurumi work.

When assembling the bamboo branch, I recommend pinning the pieces in place first. This allows you to adjust the angle before committing to sewing or gluing.

Finally, blocking should not be skipped. In my own finished samples, blocking transformed the coaster from slightly curled to beautifully flat and professional-looking.

Tips & Variations

• Use crochet thread for a more delicate lace appearance.
• Increase hook size slightly for a softer decorative applique.
• Attach a felt backing to create a sturdier coaster.
• Add a hanging loop to turn the piece into wall decor.
• Create multiple coasters for a coordinated panda-themed gift set.

Finishing Touches

Before considering your Panda Lace Applique Coaster Crochet Pattern complete, inspect all embroidery details and secure any loose yarn tails. A light steam block or wet block will help define the lace edges and showcase the beautiful scalloped border.

The contrast between the black panda details and white lace background is what makes this design so eye-catching, so taking a few extra minutes to perfect the finishing details is well worth the effort.

FAQ

Is this Panda Lace Applique Coaster Crochet Pattern suitable for beginners?

The project is best suited for intermediate crocheters because it combines lacework, applique construction, embroidery, and assembly techniques.

What yarn works best?

Cotton crochet thread or sport-weight cotton yarn provides excellent stitch definition and helps the lace maintain its shape.

Can I make it larger?

Yes. Using a larger hook and slightly thicker yarn will create a larger finished applique while maintaining the overall design.

Do I need to block the coaster?

Blocking is highly recommended because it helps open the lacework and creates a flatter, more polished finish.

Can this be used as more than a coaster?

Absolutely. Many crocheters use this design as an applique, decorative accent, gift embellishment, wall decoration, or craft fair item.

Conclusion

This Panda Lace Applique Coaster Crochet Pattern combines elegant lacework with a playful panda design, creating a project that feels both decorative and practical. After testing the design, I found it especially effective as a handmade gift, a unique coaster for everyday use, or a charming addition to craft fair displays.

The crisp cotton stitches, detailed panda features, and delicate scalloped edging come together beautifully once blocked and assembled. Whether you’re making one for yourself or creating several as gifts, this is the kind of project that always seems to bring a smile.

Loved this pattern? Share it with your crochet friends and inspire someone else to create their own adorable panda coaster.