The Anemone & Ladybug Bunny is a masterpiece of garden-inspired character design, blending the softness of a classic heirloom toy with the vibrant colors of a flourishing spring meadow. This bunny exudes a sense of whimsy and wonder, dressed in a light blue skirt decorated with bold black anemone flowers and a striking red cardigan peppered with ladybug spots. To achieve the professional, high-end finish seen in the photographs, enthusiasts often choose to buy premium extra-fine merino wool or high-quality cotton-blend yarns. When you buy specific materials that offer superior stitch definition, every petal of the anemone and every tiny ladybug dot becomes a vivid detail. This character is not just a doll; it is a storied piece of art, complete with a miniature butterfly net and a plump ladybug companion, making it a perfect project for collectors or as a sentimental gift for a loved one who treasures handmade excellence.

Please note: I strive for accuracy in every pattern, but occasional errors can happen. Thank you for understanding and for enjoying my designs.

Project Overview and Aesthetic Direction

This design focuses on the interplay between soft neutrals and bold, nature-inspired primary colors. The bunny body serves as a blank canvas in a gentle oatmeal shade, allowing the sky-blue dress and crimson cardigan to stand out. The anemone flowers on the skirt are a defining feature, requiring precise embroidery to capture their characteristic dark centers and layered petals. The ladybug theme is carried through the cardigan and the large plush accessory, creating a cohesive visual narrative. Consistency in tension is the secret to ensuring that the clothing fits the bunny perfectly without gaps or bulkiness.

Throughout this process, emphasis is placed on the “sculptural” aspect of knitting. By using specific increases and decreases, you will shape the rounded cheeks and sturdy limbs that give the bunny its endearing personality. The accessories, including the floral hat and the butterfly net, add layers of storytelling that elevate the project from a simple toy to a detailed character study. Patience during the assembly phase is rewarded with a 100% accurate representation of this garden-loving rabbit.

Required Materials and Specialized Tools

Selecting the correct fibers ensures your work mirrors the texture and drape of the original inspiration. High-quality natural fibers are recommended for their durability and classic appearance.

• Yarn Selection:
  • Oatmeal or Soft Cream: 100g of DK weight yarn (Bunny body and limbs).
  • Sky Blue: 50g of DK weight yarn (Skirt and hat base).
  • Bright Crimson Red: 50g of DK weight yarn (Cardigan, shoes, and ladybug plush).
  • Black: 25g of DK weight yarn (Anemone petals, cardigan dots, and ladybug head).
  • Pure White: 10g of DK weight yarn (Anemone centers, hat flowers, and ladybug eyes).
  • Tan or Beige: Small amount for the net handle and inner ears.
• Knitting Needles: US Size 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles or circular needles for the magic loop method. Using a slightly smaller needle size than recommended on the yarn label creates a dense fabric that keeps the fiberfill concealed.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm black safety eyes.
• Stuffing: High-grade polyester fiberfill (approximately 200g).
• Embroidery Tools: A sharp tapestry needle and a fine embroidery needle for the floral details.
• Accessories: A thin wooden dowel (approx. 6 inches) for the butterfly net handle and a small amount of stiffened gauze or lace for the net itself.

Knitting Abbreviations (US Standard)

• k: knit
• p: purl
• sts: stitches
• rnd: round
• st-st: stockinette stitch
• kfb: knit into the front and back of the stitch (increase)
• m1: make one stitch by lifting the bar between stitches (increase)
• k2tog: knit two stitches together (decrease)
• ssk: slip, slip, knit the two slipped stitches together (decrease)
• RS / WS: right side / wrong side

Bunny Foundation: Leg and Foot Construction

The construction begins with the legs to establish a sturdy base. The feet are worked in a way that allows them to support the weight of the bunny when seated.

Right Leg

Using the oatmeal yarn, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across three double-pointed needles and join in the round, being careful not to twist.

Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
Rnd 3-9: Knit all stitches. This forms the base and sides of the foot.
Rnd 10: k12, (k2tog) 4 times, k12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep.
Rnd 11: k10, (k2tog) 4 times, k10 (24 sts).
Rnd 12-42: Continue in st-st until the leg measures roughly 5 inches from the sole. Stuff the foot area very firmly to ensure it holds its shape. Stuff the rest of the leg moderately. Leave the stitches on a holder or spare needle.

Left Leg

Work the left leg exactly as the right leg. After reaching Round 42, do not break the yarn. This working yarn will be used to initiate the body join in the next section.

Constructing the Bunny Torso and Hip Shaping

Joining the legs creates the foundation of the torso. The spacing between the legs determines the width of the hips, which is vital for the fit of the blue skirt.

Rnd 43: Knit across the 24 stitches of the left leg, cast on 4 stitches for the crotch gap, knit across the 24 stitches of the right leg, and cast on another 4 stitches for the back (56 sts total).
Rnds 44-58: Knit all stitches in the round. This establishes the seat and lower abdomen.
Rnd 59: *k12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 60-65: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 66: *k11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 67-72: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 73: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 74-78: Knit all stitches. At this stage, begin stuffing the body firmly. Ensure you push stuffing toward the hip areas to create the rounded silhouette seen in the image.
Rnd 79: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 80: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 81: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 82: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts). This forms the neck. Do not bind off; we proceed immediately to the head.

Shaping the Bunny Head and Facial Structure

The head is worked directly from the neck to provide structural integrity. We use rapid increases to define the broad, sweet cheeks of the character.

Head Shaping

Rnd 83: *k2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 84: *k3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 85: *k4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 86: *k5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 87: *k6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
Rnds 88-105: Knit all stitches. This builds the vertical height and forehead area.
Insert the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 96 and 97, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are centered relative to the front of the feet.

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Closing the Head

Rnd 106: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 107: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 108: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 109: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 110: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts). Begin stuffing the head very firmly. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead.
Rnd 111: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 112: *k1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 113: k2tog around (8 sts). Break the yarn, leaving a tail. Thread the tail through the remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and weave in the end securely.

Long Floppy Ears and Slender Arms

Rabbit Ears (Make 2)

The ears are worked flat and then sewn to the crown of the head. Use the oatmeal yarn for the outer ear and a slightly lighter cream or pinkish-tan for the inner detail if desired.

Cast on 12 stitches.
Rows 1-45: Work in st-st (Knit RS, Purl WS).
Row 46: k2tog, k8, ssk (10 sts).
Row 47: Purl all stitches.
Row 48: k2tog, k6, ssk (8 sts).
Row 49: Purl all stitches.
Row 50: k2tog, k4, ssk (6 sts).
Bind off all stitches. Make two. Fold the cast-on edge slightly in half to create depth and sew them to the top of the head between rounds 110 and 112.

Slender Arms (Make 2)

The arms should be stuffed lighter than the legs to allow them to rest naturally or hold the butterfly net handle.

Cast on 10 stitches in oatmeal yarn. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-38: Knit all stitches in st-st.
Rnd 39: *k3, k2tog* (8 sts).
Rnd 40: k2tog around (4 sts). Break yarn and pull through. Stuff the hand (lower) area firmly and the upper arm lightly. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck line at Round 82.

The Sky Blue Anemone Skirt

The skirt features an A-line shape with a garter stitch hem. The black anemone flowers are added after the knitting is complete using embroidery.

Using the sky blue yarn, cast on 80 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean hem that won’t roll.
Rnds 7-30: Continue in stockinette stitch. This forms the main length of the skirt.
Rnd 31 (Waist Shaping): *k8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 32: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 33: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Bind off all stitches loosely. Place the skirt on the bunny before beginning the embroidery to ensure the flowers are positioned correctly relative to the legs.

Black Anemone Embroidery Guide

Using a sharp needle and black DK yarn, create five large black petals for each flower. Use a satin stitch or a chain stitch to fill in the petals. In the center of each anemone, use white yarn to create a small cluster of French knots or straight stitches. Space five of these flowers evenly around the bottom half of the skirt hem, ensuring the centers are vivid and the petals are bold against the blue fabric.

The Red Ladybug Cardigan

The cardigan is a standout piece worked flat with garter stitch borders. The black ladybug dots are embroidered after assembly.

Using the crimson red yarn, cast on 32 stitches. This piece is worked flat.
Rows 1-4: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch border).
Row 5 (RS): k3, m1, k to last 3 sts, m1, k3 (34 sts).
Row 6 (WS): k3, p to last 3 sts, k3.
Rows 7-18: Continue in st-st, keeping 3 stitches at each edge in garter stitch for the front placket.
Divide for armholes: Work 8 stitches for the front, bind off 4 stitches, work 10 stitches for the back, bind off 4 stitches, work 8 stitches for the second front. Work these sections separately for 8 rows, then bind off and sew the shoulder seams.

Ladybug Dot Details

Using black yarn and a tapestry needle, embroider small dots randomly across the surface of the red cardigan. Use the “duplicate stitch” or Swiss darning technique to cover single knitted stitches in black. This ensures the dots look like they are part of the knitted fabric rather than sitting on top of it. Ensure the distribution is balanced between the front and back panels.

The Floral Blue Hat and Mary Jane Shoes

The Blue Hat

Using the sky blue yarn, cast on 46 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-5: Knit all stitches. This forms the brim.
Rnds 6-15: Continue in st-st. This forms the crown of the hat.
Rnd 16: *k9, k2tog* repeat around.
Rnd 17: *k8, k2tog* repeat around.
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Break yarn and pull through. To create the white flowers on the brim, knit three tiny white flowers (cast on 10, bind off immediately, and roll into a circle). Sew these in a cluster on the right side of the hat brim.

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Red Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

These shoes are knitted as separate items to slide over the oatmeal feet.
Using red yarn, cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-4: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts).
Rnd 6: Bind off 17 stitches. For the strap, cast on 10 stitches and bind off immediately. Sew the strap across the top opening of the shoe. Slip onto the feet and secure with a small stitch into the leg.

Accessories: Butterfly Net and Ladybug Plush

The Butterfly Net

The net handle is a wooden dowel. For the net part, cast on 12 stitches in oatmeal yarn. Work in st-st for 15 rows, then bind off. Sew this into a cylindrical shape. Attach the gauzy lace or lace fabric to the top of the knitted cylinder to form the mesh bag of the net. Glue or sew the dowel into the base of the knitted part. The bunny’s hand should be stitched around the handle to hold it in place.

The Large Ladybug Companion

This is a 3D accessory that accompanies the bunny.
Using red yarn, cast on 8 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch (16 sts).
Rnd 2: *k1, kfb* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 3: *k2, kfb* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnds 4-18: Knit all stitches. Stuff very firmly into a ball shape.
Rnd 19: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 20: *k1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 21: k2tog around (8 sts). Break yarn and close.
Ladybug Head: Using black yarn, knit a smaller semi-sphere (8 sts, increase to 16, knit 4 rnds, bind off) and sew it to the front of the red body. Embroider white eyes. Add large black dots across the red back using duplicate stitch.

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

Assembly is where your bunny truly comes to life. Begin by ensuring the head is centered on the neck. The ears should be positioned high on the crown, allowing the hat to sit comfortably between them. Use oatmeal yarn to embroider a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth centered between the safety eyes. The mouth should be small and low on the face for a sweet, youthful expression.

Dress the bunny in the blue anemone skirt first, pulling it up to the waist. Place the red cardigan over the top. The hat should be tilted slightly for a fashionable look. Place the red Mary Janes on the feet. Position the ladybug plush next to the bunny and secure the net in the bunny’s hand. Hide all yarn ends inside the stuffing. If desired, you may apply a very light touch of actual pink blush or a pink colored pencil to the bunny’s cheeks to mimic the soft glow seen in the photo.

Detailed Care and Preservation

Because this project features intricate embroidery and multiple knitted layers, it requires specific care to maintain its pristine appearance. This character is intended as an heirloom piece and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the anemone petals.

Washing Guidelines

Hand washing is the only recommended method. Fill a clean basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle detergent specifically formulated for wool or delicate knitwear. Submerge the bunny slowly, avoiding aggressive scrubbing which can cause pilling or snag the delicate anemone embroidery. Let the doll soak for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.

To dry, place the bunny between two clean, thick towels and press down gently to remove excess moisture. Never wring or twist the doll, as this will distort the internal stuffing and the knitted structure. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant red and blue yarns. You may use a light fabric softener during the final rinse if you want the fibers to remain exceptionally soft. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing to restore her original plump shape. By following these steps, your Anemone & Ladybug Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for years to come.

Knitting a project of this scale and detail is a labor of love. Every stitch contributes to a story of patience and artistic expression. Whether you are adding this bunny to your own collection or giving it as a significant gift, the effort invested in her creation makes her truly priceless. Enjoy the process of bringing this garden-loving rabbit to life!

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