Create a charming rust-colored forest friend with this detailed amigurumi pattern. Perfect for intermediate crocheters and dedicated beginners looking to expand their skills.
Introduction: Your New Favorite Crochet Project
Hello fellow crocheters! Patricia here from trendydecos.com with an utterly charming project that's bound to steal your heart. This red panda amigurumi captures all the adorable features that make these creatures so beloved - from their distinctive rust-colored fur to their expressive masked faces and bushy striped tails.
I've designed this pattern to be approachable for intermediate crocheters, though dedicated beginners willing to tackle a few new techniques should manage just fine.
The finished plushie stands about 7 inches tall when seated, making it the perfect cuddly companion or shelf decoration. What I love most about this design is how the color work creates such personality with minimal embroidery needed.
Let's create this forest friend together!
Materials Needed for Your Red Panda Amigurumi
Yarn Requirements:
- Yarn A: Worsted weight (4) rust/orange-red - 100g/220 yards (Suggested: Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in Rust)
- Yarn B: Worsted weight (4) white - 50g/110 yards (Suggested: Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in White)
- Yarn C: Worsted weight (4) black - 25g/55 yards (Suggested: Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in Black)
- Yarn D: Worsted weight (4) dark brown - 15g/33 yards (Suggested: Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in Chocolate)
- Small amounts of pink yarn for nose/inner ears
Required Hooks:
- 3.5mm (E/4) - for main body parts
- 3.0mm (C/2) - for smaller details
Essential Notions:
- Fiberfill stuffing (approximately 3-4 oz)
- 9mm safety eyes (1 pair)
- Black embroidery floss
- Stitch markers
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- Wire pipe cleaners (optional, for posable limbs)
- Pin board and pins (for blocking if desired)
Crochet Skill Level & Required Techniques
Difficulty: Intermediate
Techniques You'll Need to Know:
- Magic circle/ring
- Single crochet (sc)
- Increase (inc)
- Decrease (invisible decrease preferred)
- Working in continuous rounds
- Color changes
- Surface slip stitches (for facial details)
- Sewing amigurumi parts together
- Basic embroidery for facial features
Time Commitment: Approximately 8-10 hours total, depending on experience level
Crochet Abbreviations & Terms Guide
- ch - chain
- sc - single crochet
- inc - increase (2 sc in same stitch)
- dec - decrease (invisible decrease preferred)
- st(s) - stitch(es)
- rnd - round
- ( ) - total number of stitches for that round
- [ ] - repeat instructions inside brackets the number of times indicated
- BLO - back loop only
- FLO - front loop only
- ... - repeat instructions between asterisks
Detailed Pattern Instructions
How to Crochet the Red Panda Head
With Yarn A (rust):
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: [1 sc, inc] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 4: [2 sc, inc] 6 times (24)
- Rnd 5: [3 sc, inc] 6 times (30)
- Rnd 6: [4 sc, inc] 6 times (36)
- Rnd 7: [5 sc, inc] 6 times (42)
- Rnd 8: [6 sc, inc] 6 times (48)
- Rnd 9: [7 sc, inc] 6 times (54)
- Rnds 10-17: sc in each st around (54)
Creating the White Facial Mask
With Yarn B:
- Rnd 18: [22 sc in Yarn A, 5 sc in Yarn B, 22 sc in Yarn A, 5 sc in Yarn B] (54)
- Rnd 19: [21 sc in Yarn A, 7 sc in Yarn B, 21 sc in Yarn A, 5 sc in Yarn B] (54)
- Rnd 20: [20 sc in Yarn A, 8 sc in Yarn B, 20 sc in Yarn A, 6 sc in Yarn B] (54)
- Rnd 21: [20 sc in Yarn A, 8 sc in Yarn B, 20 sc in Yarn A, 6 sc in Yarn B] (54)
Insert safety eyes between rounds 14 and 15, approximately 8-10 stitches apart, centered in the Yarn B (white) sections.
Continue with facial pattern:
- Rnd 22: [19 sc in Yarn A, 9 sc in Yarn B, 19 sc in Yarn A, 7 sc in Yarn B] (54)
- Rnd 23: [18 sc in Yarn A, 10 sc in Yarn B, 18 sc in Yarn A, 8 sc in Yarn B] (54)
- Rnd 24: [17 sc in Yarn A, 11 sc in Yarn B, 17 sc in Yarn A, 9 sc in Yarn B] (54)
Begin decreasing:
- Rnd 25: [7 sc, dec] 6 times (48)
- Rnd 26: [6 sc, dec] 6 times (42)
- Rnd 27: [5 sc, dec] 6 times (36)
- Rnd 28: [4 sc, dec] 6 times (30)
Start stuffing the head firmly.
- Rnd 29: [3 sc, dec] 6 times (24)
- Rnd 30: [2 sc, dec] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 31: [1 sc, dec] 6 times (12)
- Rnd 32: dec 6 times (6)
Fasten off, leaving a tail. Use the yarn needle to weave through the front loops of the remaining 6 stitches, pull tight to close the hole, and secure with a knot. Weave in end.
How to Crochet the Red Panda Body
With Yarn A (rust):
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: [1 sc, inc] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 4: [2 sc, inc] 6 times (24)
- Rnd 5: [3 sc, inc] 6 times (30)
- Rnd 6: [4 sc, inc] 6 times (36)
- Rnd 7: [5 sc, inc] 6 times (42)
- Rnd 8: [6 sc, inc] 6 times (48)
- Rnds 9-16: sc in each st around (48)
Creating the White Belly Pattern
With Yarn B:
- Rnd 17: [18 sc in Yarn A, 12 sc in Yarn B, 18 sc in Yarn A] (48)
- Rnd 18: [17 sc in Yarn A, 14 sc in Yarn B, 17 sc in Yarn A] (48)
- Rnd 19: [16 sc in Yarn A, 16 sc in Yarn B, 16 sc in Yarn A] (48)
- Rnd 20: [16 sc in Yarn A, 16 sc in Yarn B, 16 sc in Yarn A] (48)
- Rnd 21: [17 sc in Yarn A, 14 sc in Yarn B, 17 sc in Yarn A] (48)
- Rnd 22: [18 sc in Yarn A, 12 sc in Yarn B, 18 sc in Yarn A] (48)
Begin decreasing (in Yarn A):
- Rnd 23: [6 sc, dec] 6 times (42)
- Rnd 24: [5 sc, dec] 6 times (36)
- Rnd 25: [4 sc, dec] 6 times (30)
- Rnd 26: [3 sc, dec] 6 times (24)
Start stuffing the body firmly.
- Rnd 27: [2 sc, dec] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 28: [1 sc, dec] 6 times (12)
- Rnd 29: dec 6 times (6)
Fasten off, leaving a tail. Close the hole as done with the head.
How to Crochet the Red Panda Arms (make 2)
With Yarn A (rust):
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: [1 sc, inc] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 4: [2 sc, inc] 6 times (24)
- Rnds 5-7: sc in each st around (24)
- Rnd 8: [2 sc, dec] 6 times (18)
- Rnds 9-18: sc in each st around (18)
Begin stuffing the arm lightly. If using pipe cleaners for posable limbs, insert them now.
- Rnd 19: [1 sc, dec] 6 times (12)
- Rnd 20: sc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 21: dec 6 times (6)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for attaching to the body.
How to Crochet the Red Panda Legs (make 2)
With Yarn A (rust):
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: [1 sc, inc] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 4: [2 sc, inc] 6 times (24)
- Rnds 5-8: sc in each st around (24)
Creating the White Paw Pads
With Yarn B:
- Rnd 9: [8 sc in Yarn A, 8 sc in Yarn B, 8 sc in Yarn A] (24)
- Rnd 10: [8 sc in Yarn A, 8 sc in Yarn B, 8 sc in Yarn A] (24)
Continue with Yarn A:
- Rnds 11-20: sc in each st around (24)
- Rnd 21: [2 sc, dec] 6 times (18)
Begin stuffing the leg firmly. If using pipe cleaners for posable limbs, insert them now.
- Rnd 22: [1 sc, dec] 6 times (12)
- Rnd 23: sc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 24: dec 6 times (6)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for attaching to the body.
How to Crochet the Red Panda Ears (make 2)
With Yarn A (rust):
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: [1 sc, inc] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 4: sc in each st around (18)
- Rnd 5: [sc in next 7 sts, dec] 2 times (16)
- Rnd 6: sc in each st around (16)
Switch to Yarn D (dark brown) for the back of the ear:
- Rnd 7: 16 sc in BLO (16)
- Rnd 8: sc in each st around (16)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
For the inner ear, with pink yarn:
- Row 1: Ch 4, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across (3)
- Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (3)
- Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (3)
Fasten off. Sew the pink inner ear piece to the center of the ear.
How to Crochet the Red Panda Tail
With Yarn A (rust):
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: [1 sc, inc] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 4: [2 sc, inc] 6 times (24)
- Rnd 5: [3 sc, inc] 6 times (30)
- Rnd 6: [4 sc, inc] 6 times (36)
Creating the Distinctive Tail Stripes
Alternating Yarn A and Yarn D:
- Rnd 7: sc in each st around with Yarn A (36)
- Rnd 8: sc in each st around with Yarn D (36)
- Rnd 9: sc in each st around with Yarn A (36)
- Rnd 10: sc in each st around with Yarn D (36)
- Rnd 11: sc in each st around with Yarn A (36)
- Rnd 12: sc in each st around with Yarn D (36)
Continue with Yarn A:
- Rnd 13: [4 sc, dec] 6 times (30)
- Rnd 14: [3 sc, dec] 6 times (24)
- Rnd 15: sc in each st around (24)
- Rnd 16: [2 sc, dec] 6 times (18)
Begin stuffing the tail firmly.
- Rnd 17: sc in each st around (18)
- Rnd 18: [1 sc, dec] 6 times (12)
- Rnd 19: dec 6 times (6)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for attaching to the body.
How to Crochet the Red Panda Muzzle
With Yarn B (white):
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: [1 sc, inc] 6 times (18)
- Rnd 4: [2 sc, inc] 6 times (24)
- Rnd 5: sc in each st around (24)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing to the head.
How to Crochet the Red Panda Nose
With Yarn C (black):
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: sc in each st around (12)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing to the muzzle.
Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions
1. Facial Features:
- Sew the white muzzle to the front of the head, centered between the eyes and slightly below them
- Attach the black nose to the center front of the muzzle
- Using black embroidery floss, stitch a small mouth below the nose
- With Yarn C (black), use surface slip stitches to create eyebrow markings above the eyes
2. Ears:
- Sew the ears to the top of the head, approximately 1.5 inches apart
- Position them so the dark brown side faces the back
3. Body Parts:
- Attach the head to the body, ensuring it sits firmly and centered
- Sew the arms to the upper sides of the body, positioned so they can rest naturally at the sides
- Attach the legs to the lower part of the body
- Sew the tail to the back of the body, positioned slightly upward for that characteristic red panda look
4. Final Details:
- With Yarn C (black), embroider small black "dots" around the white muzzle area to create the distinctive red panda facial markings
- Check that all parts are securely attached and the amigurumi sits properly
Expert Technical Tips for Perfect Amigurumi
Achieving the Right Tension
Aim for tight, even stitches to prevent stuffing from showing through. Your tension should create approximately 14 stitches and 16 rows per 2x2 inches using the recommended hook size.
Master the Stuffing Technique
For the best results, add small portions of stuffing at a time and work it into all the corners with your fingers or a stuffing tool. Pay special attention to the facial area to avoid a lumpy appearance.
Perfect Color Changes
When switching colors, complete the last stitch of the previous color until two loops remain on hook, then pull through with the new color. Carry unused yarn inside the piece rather than cutting it between each color change section.
Professional Assembly Tips
Pin each piece in place before sewing to ensure proper positioning. Use a mattress stitch for nearly invisible seams.
Facial Feature Placement
If you're finding it difficult to position the facial features correctly, use pins to mark placement before committing to sewing them on.
Creating Posable Red Pandas
For a more posable red panda, insert pipe cleaners into the arms and legs before stuffing. Bend the pipe cleaners into a U-shape at the end that will be inserted into the body for better stability.
Care and Display Instructions for Your Red Panda
Your adorable red panda amigurumi should stand approximately 7 inches tall when seated, with a body length of about 5 inches and a tail length of 4 inches. For best results, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap as needed. Avoid machine washing as this may damage the stitches and stuffing.
Display your red panda on a shelf, desk, or bedside table. It makes a perfect forest friend alongside other woodland creatures or as a standalone piece. Consider creating a family of red pandas in various sizes by adjusting your hook size!
For a personal touch, you might add a tiny bamboo stem made from green yarn, as red pandas in the wild enjoy munching on bamboo leaves (though not as exclusively as giant pandas).
Thank you for crocheting with me! I'd love to see your finished red pandas - be sure to tag @trendydecos if you share on social media!
Common Questions About Crocheting Red Pandas
Q: My red panda's head seems wobbly. How can I attach it more securely?
A: For a more secure head attachment, use a length of yarn that's about 3 times the circumference of the neck. Thread it through the base of the head and the top of the body several times in a figure-8 pattern, pulling tight but not so tight that it distorts the shape. This creates multiple anchor points for stability.
Q: How can I make my red panda's facial mask more symmetrical?
A: Before committing to your color changes, use stitch markers to map out where each section will begin and end. If you're struggling with the color work, you can alternatively crochet the entire head in rust color and then use surface crochet in white to create the facial markings afterward.
Q: Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern?
A: Yes, but you'll need to adjust your hook size accordingly. Using DK weight yarn with a 2.5-3.0mm hook will create a smaller red panda (about 5 inches tall), while chunky yarn with a 5.0mm hook will create a larger one (about 10 inches tall). Remember to adjust your stuffing amount proportionally.
Q: The striped tail pattern seems complicated. Is there an easier way?
A: If you find changing colors every round challenging, you can crochet the entire tail in rust color and then use surface slip stitches in dark brown to create rings around the tail afterward. This creates a similar effect with less complexity.
Q: How do I prevent the white belly patch from showing through to the inside?
A: When working the color changes for the belly, be sure to carry the unused yarn loosely inside the piece rather than cutting it. This creates a clean interior. If you still see color peeking through, you can line the inside of your work with a small piece of white felt before stuffing.
Q: My safety eyes won't stay secure. What should I do?
A: If your safety eyes feel loose, you can secure them with a dab of fabric glue or clear nail polish on the inside washers. For added security, especially if making this for a child, consider embroidering the eyes with black yarn instead.
Q: How can I make my red panda sit up without toppling over?
A: For better balance, make sure the base of your red panda (bottom of body and legs) is flat and evenly stuffed. You can also add a bit more weight to the bottom by inserting a small pouch of poly pellets or dried beans before closing up the body.
Q: Can I make this pattern without the striped tail?
A: Absolutely! Red pandas in different regions have varying amounts of tail striping. Some have very subtle stripes while others have more pronounced ones. You can create a solid rust-colored tail or add just one or two brown stripes near the tip for a different look.
Q: Is there a way to make the ears stand up more?
A: For perky ears, use pipe cleaners inside or stiffen them with fabric stiffener or a solution of white glue and water (diluted 1:1). Apply the solution and shape the ears as desired, allowing them to dry completely before attaching to the head.
Q: How can I customize my red panda to look more unique?
A: Consider changing the facial expression by altering the position of the eyes or embroidering different mouth shapes. You could also add accessories like a tiny scarf, hat, or bamboo leaf. Some red pandas have lighter "eyebrow" patches above their eyes that you could add with cream-colored yarn for a different look.
© Patricia Poltera - trendydecos.com
This pattern is for personal use only. Please do not reproduce, distribute, or sell this pattern or finished items made from this pattern without permission. You are welcome to sell finished items made from this pattern provided you credit "Pattern by Patricia Poltera - trendydecos.com".
