Lotus Bonsai

The bonsai consists of a base and a bouquet. Here, the bottle for the base is pre-made, so there's no need to make it. We only need to make the bouquet.The bouquet consists of pistils (lotus pods), lotus leaves, lotus flowers, and flower buds. Finally, assemble the bouquet into a potted landscape.

 Due to variations in individual tension, the size of the sample is for reference only.

Materials:  Combed 3# Lace
Hook: 2.00 mm crochet hook

Chart Key

ch: chain

sc: single crochet

sl: slip stitch

dc: double crochet

hdc: half double crochet

rev-sc: reverse single crochet

MR: adjustable magic ring

sc2-in-1: 2 single crochets into the same stitch

dc2-in-1: 2 double crochets into the same stitch

Note:
 1. This pattern is making in Chinese crochet pattern terms, and the stitch name is written using American terminology. All measurements in charts are in cm. 
2. Working in joined round
When crocheting in rounds without further guidance, working in closed rounds, start each round with a set number of beginning chains and close with a slip stitch. The beginning chain preceding a single crochet and the slip stitch used for joining rounds are not included in the total stitches.

Part 1 Pistil (lLotus Pod) × 3 01' 29'' ​

It's made up of the lotus pod and lotus stamens. The lotus pod is created using clay, and you need to wait for the clay to dry before attaching the stamens. So, we start by making the lotus pod first. During the process, you need to press lines into it and place lotus seeds in the central area. Once it's done, set it aside, and later attach the stamens. Please refer to the video demonstration for specifics.

Part 2 Lotus Leaves [19#Verdant Green] 05' 39'' ​

There are three sizes: large, medium, and small. The making method is the same; only the number of rounds differs. Use the magic ring technique and crochet counterclockwise in a circular pattern outward. Please refer to the chart and video demonstration for specifics.

Part 3 Lotus Flowers

The lotus flowers consist of 3 parts each: pistils, petals, and sepals. The pistils don't need crocheting but are made with corresponding materials. The petals and sepals require crocheting. First, crochet the corresponding number of petals and sepals separately, then make the pistils, and finally assemble them.

Step 1 Petals [02#Whisper White / 05#Pearl] 31' 41'' ​

There are two sizes: large and small. The making method is the same; only the number of stitches differs. Use a chain cast on, then crochet counterclockwise in a circular pattern outward from this starting row. Please refer to the chart and video demonstration for specifics.

Step 2 Calyxes × 22 [27#Lime Green] 50' 44'' ​

A single calyx is made up of two identical crochet pieces. Work each piece separately first, and then join them together by crocheting the edging. Meanwhile, incorporate the thin wire while joining. Please refer to the chart and video demonstration for specifics.

Step 3 Pistil (Lotus Stamen) 65' 49'' ​

The pistil part of the lotus has been made in advance. After it dries, just stick the lotus stamens on the edge. Please refer to the video for specifics.

Step 4 Assembly 68' 01'' ​

First, assemble the petals and sepals together, then install the pistil in the center. Next, trim the stem lengths: the stem lengths for the two large lotus flowers are 21cm and 26cm, and the stem length for the small lotus flower is 31cm. Finally, wrap with paper tape. Please refer to the video for the method.

Part 4 Flower Buds

It is composed of petals and sepals. Here, the sepals are identical to those of the lotus, except that certain areas between the base of the sepals need to be sewn and secured. First, make the petals, then sew them together to form a bud shape. After completion, secure some areas of the sepals, and finally assemble it.

Step 1 Petals [02#Whisper White / 05#Pearl] 77' 46'' ​

The making method is identical to the sepals. Each petal consists of two identical crochet pieces. Similarly, start by crocheting the pieces first. Once completed, join them together by crocheting the edging, and still incorporate the thin wire while joining. Finally, sew them together to form a bud shape. Please refer to the pattern chart and video demonstration for specifics.

Step 2 Calyxes 87' 07'' ​

Sew a few stitches at the bottom to secure the remaining 3 sepals of the lotus flower. Please refer to the video demonstration for specifics.

Step 3 Assembly of Flower Buds 88' 29'' ​

First, slip the petals into the calyx, then secure them together onto the stem. Please refer to the video demonstration for specifics.

Part 5 Assembly of Bouquet 95' 44'' ​

First, tie the flowers and leaves into a bouquet. Then fill the vase and insert the bouquet. You can also insert the bouquet first and then fill the space around it. For filling, you can use rice (to avoid pests, add some Sichuan peppercorns or garlic), small stones, weighted beads, or other somewhat heavy granules.