The Poppy Field Bunny is an exquisite heirloom project that captures the essence of a serene walk through a blooming meadow. This design features a soft, cream-colored rabbit dressed in a sophisticated ensemble: a vibrant red beret with a contrasting black pom-pom, a matching red cardigan adorned with playful paw print embroidery, and a classic ivory dress accented by delicate red poppies at the neckline. Accompanied by a loyal little Corgi companion and carrying a rustic brown messenger bag, this bunny is a masterpiece of storytelling through fiber arts. To achieve the professional, high-end finish seen in the image, many crafters choose to buy premium extra-fine merino wool or organic cotton blends, as these fibers provide the necessary stitch definition for the intricate floral embroidery. When you buy high-quality materials, you ensure that your finished bunny remains a durable and soft treasure for years to come. You can purchase specific pastel and jewel-toned yarns for this project, along with specialized ergonomic needles from reliable online retailers like Amazon or your local boutique yarn shop.

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

Materials and Preparation

Selecting the right materials is the most critical stage in ensuring your bunny looks 100% accurate to the inspiration. The texture of the yarn determines the character’s “soul.” For this design, a DK weight (8-ply) yarn is recommended to balance detail with ease of handling. Natural fibers are preferred for their classic appearance and longevity.

Yarn Color Palette

• Main Bunny Body: Approximately 100g of Ivory or Soft Cream yarn. A wool or wool-blend is ideal for a matte, natural finish.
• Outfit Red: 50g of Vibrant Cherry Red yarn for the cardigan, beret, and poppy details.
• Dress Base: 50g of Cream or Off-White yarn (ensure this is a slightly different shade or texture than the body if possible to add depth).
• Messenger Bag: 20g of Medium Brown or Tan yarn.
• Shoes: 20g of Jet Black yarn.
• Corgi Companion: Scraps of Ginger/Orange, White, and Black yarn.
• Embroidery Details: Small amounts of Forest Green for the poppy stems and Black for the paw prints.

Tools and Accessories

• Knitting Needles: US 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needles for the magic loop method. Using a needle size slightly smaller than recommended on the yarn label is a secret to creating a firm fabric that hides the stuffing perfectly.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny; 4mm black beads or embroidery thread for the Corgi.
• Filling: High-grade polyester fiberfill (approximately 200g).
• Embroidery Tools: A sharp tapestry needle for assembly and a fine embroidery needle for the floral and paw details.
• Buttons: One tiny brown wooden button for the messenger bag.

Standard Abbreviations

• k: knit
• p: purl
• sts: stitches
• rnd: round
• st-st: stockinette stitch (knit on RS, purl on WS)
• 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
• I-cord: a narrow tube of knitting worked on two needles

Bunny Foundation: The Legs

The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward. This provides the most stability for a doll meant to sit elegantly on a shelf or table. We work the legs as seamless tubes to ensure a professional look.

Step-by-Step Leg Construction (Make 2)

Using the Ivory/Cream body yarn, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across your needles and join for working in the round.

Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 3-10: Knit all stitches. This builds the rounded base of the foot.
Rnd 11: k12, (k2tog) 4 times, k12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
Rnd 12: k10, (k2tog) 4 times, k10 (24 sts).
Rnd 13: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 14-45: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 5 inches (13 cm). Maintain consistent tension to avoid gaps.

Stuff the foot area very firmly, ensuring the toe area is plump. Stuff the leg moderately to allow for a natural drape. Leave the stitches for the first leg on a holder. Complete the second leg and keep the yarn attached to join the body.

Constructing the Torso and Hips

Joining the legs correctly is vital for the bunny’s posture. Place the legs side-by-side with the toes pointing forward. We will create a gap between the legs to give her the wide, rounded hips seen in the image.

Joining and Lower Body

Rnd 46 (Joining): Knit across 24 stitches of the second leg, cast on 4 stitches for the center, knit across 24 stitches of the first leg, and cast on 4 stitches for the back (56 sts total).
Rnd 47-62: Knit every stitch in the round. This section builds the wide, rounded hips characteristic of this design.
Rnd 63: *k12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnd 64-68: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 69: *k11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 70-74: Knit all stitches. Begin stuffing the body firmly, focusing on the hip areas to maintain the shape.

Upper Torso and Neck

Rnd 75: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnd 76-80: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 81: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 82: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 83: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 84: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts). This forms the neck. Do not bind off; we proceed directly to the head.

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Sculpting the Head and Facial Structure

The head is worked directly from the neck to ensure structural integrity. We use specific increases to define the broad cheeks and the gently tapered bridge of the nose. This part must be stuffed very firmly to support the weight of the beret and ears.

Head Shaping

Rnd 85: *k2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 86: *k3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 87: *k4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 88: *k5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 89: *k6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
Rnd 90-108: Knit all stitches. This buildup creates the main volume of the head. It should look like a rounded dome.
Insert safety eyes between rounds 98 and 99, leaving 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level with the center of the feet.

Closing the Crown

Rnd 109: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 110: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 111: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 112: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 113: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts). Begin stuffing the head very firmly. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead.
Rnd 114: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 115: *k1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 116: k2tog around (8 sts). Break the yarn, thread the tail through the remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and weave in the end securely inside the head.

The Long Floppy Ears and Slender Arms

The ears are worked flat to allow them to drape naturally toward the shoulders, while the arms are slender to fit comfortably under the cardigan.

Rabbit Ears (Make 2)

Using the Ivory/Cream yarn, cast on 12 stitches. Work flat in stockinette stitch.
Rows 1-45: Work in st-st (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long, elegant rectangle.
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. Fold the cast-on edge slightly in half to create depth and sew them to the top of the head between rounds 112 and 114.

Slender Arms (Make 2)

Using Ivory/Cream yarn, cast on 10 stitches and join for working in the round.
Rnds 1-40: Knit every stitch. This creates a slender arm that can rest naturally at the bunny’s side.
Rnd 41: *k3, k2tog* (8 sts).
Rnd 42: k2tog around (4 sts). Break yarn and pull through. Stuff the hand (lower) area firmly and the upper arm very lightly. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck line at Round 84.

The Ivory Poppy Dress

The dress features an A-line shape with a simple rolled hem. The embroidery is the focal point of the garment and is added after the knitting is complete.

Dress Knitting Instructions

Using the Cream/Ivory dress yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 80 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean hem that won’t roll excessively.
Rnds 7-35: Continue in stockinette stitch. The skirt should fall just above the bunny’s ankles.
Rnd 36 (Waist Shaping): *k8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 37: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 38: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 39-48: Knit all stitches for the bodice. Maintain a smooth tension.
Divide for armholes: Knit 10, bind off 4 stitches for the armhole, knit 20, bind off 4 stitches, knit 10.
Work the front and back sections separately flat for 6 rows each, then bind off. Sew the shoulder seams together, leaving a wide opening for the head.

Poppy Embroidery Guide

Using the red yarn and forest green thread, we will embroider the poppies around the neckline of the dress.
The Poppy Blooms: Use a simple satin stitch to create four-petaled flowers. Each petal should be heart-shaped or rounded. Use black thread for a tiny French knot in the center of each flower.
The Stems and Leaves: Using a stem stitch or backstitch with green thread, create short vertical stems connecting the flowers to the bodice. Add tiny lazy-daisy stitches for the leaves. Space five of these flowers evenly around the front collar area.

The Red Paw Print Cardigan

The cardigan is a standout piece worked flat with garter stitch borders. The black paw prints are added after assembly to give it a whimsical touch.

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

Using the 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 7-20: 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.
Sleeves: Pick up 16 stitches around the armhole opening and knit for 18 rows in stockinette. Bind off loosely.

Paw Print Details

Using black yarn and a tapestry needle, embroider small paw prints on the front panels and sleeves of the red cardigan. Use the “duplicate stitch” or Swiss darning technique to cover single knitted stitches. A paw print consists of one larger central dot and four smaller dots above it. Ensure the distribution is balanced between the left and right panels.

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The Red Beret and Mary Jane Shoes

The Red Beret

Using the red yarn, cast on 46 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-5: Knit all stitches. This forms the brim.
Rnd 6: *k1, kfb* repeat around (69 sts). This creates the necessary volume for the beret shape.
Rnds 7-20: Continue in st-st. This forms the crown of the hat.
Rnd 21: *k6, k2tog* repeat around.
Rnd 22: *k5, k2tog* repeat around.
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Break yarn and pull through.
Black Pom-pom: Create a small, dense pom-pom using black yarn (about 1 inch in diameter) and sew it firmly to the center top of the beret. Position the hat on the bunny’s head between the ears, tilting it slightly for a fashionable look.

Black Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

Using black yarn, cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-4: Knit all stitches. This forms the side of the shoe.
Rnd 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the toe.
Rnd 6: Bind off 17 stitches.
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 if necessary.

Accessories: Messenger Bag and Knitted Poppy

The Envelope Messenger Bag

Using the brown yarn, cast on 12 stitches. Work flat in garter stitch for 30 rows. This creates a long rectangle.
Fold the bottom 12 rows up to form a pocket and sew the side seams. Fold the top 6 rows down to act as an envelope flap. Sew the tiny brown button to the center of the flap.
The Strap: Cast on 3 stitches and work a 12-inch I-cord. Sew the ends of the I-cord to the sides of the bag. Drape it diagonally across the bunny’s chest before putting on the cardigan.

The Loose Red Poppy

A loose poppy sits near the bunny’s feet.
Cast on 40 stitches in red. Row 1: k2tog across (20 sts). Row 2: k2tog across (10 sts). Row 3: k2tog across (5 sts). Break yarn and pull through. Roll this ruffled strip into a circular flower shape and stitch the base. Add a black center using French knots.

The Loyal Corgi Companion

This tiny pet is worked in several small parts using ginger, white, and black yarn to capture the breed’s distinctive markings.

Corgi Body and Head

Using ginger yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round.
Rnd 1: kfb around (12 sts).
Rnd 2: *k1, kfb* around (18 sts).
Rnd 3-12: Knit all stitches. Change to white for the belly area if preferred.
Rnd 13 (Neck): k2tog around (9 sts).
Rnd 14 (Head): kfb around (18 sts).
Rnd 15-20: Knit all stitches. Stuff very firmly.
Rnd 21: k2tog around (9 sts). Close and fasten.
Legs (Make 4): Cast on 4 stitches, knit 4 rows, bind off. Sew to the bottom of the body. They should be very short.
Ears: Pick up 3 stitches on top of the head. Knit 2 rows and bind off. Ensure they are large and pointed.
The Red Scarf: Knit a 3-stitch I-cord, 4 inches long. Wrap it around the Corgi’s neck and tie in a small knot.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

Proper assembly is what transforms knitted pieces into a character with a personality. Follow these steps for a professional finish:

Facial Embroidery

Using brown embroidery thread, stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth centered exactly between the safety eyes. The mouth should be small and positioned low to create a sweet, innocent expression. Use a very small amount of actual pink cosmetic blush and a cotton swab to apply soft circular blushes to the bunny’s cheeks. This adds a youthful, healthy glow that mimics the reference photo perfectly.

Final Dressing

Dress the bunny in the ivory dress first, ensuring the poppy embroidery is centered. Drape the messenger bag across her shoulder. Layer the red cardigan over her shoulders, but do not button it—let it hang open as shown. Place the beret between her ears. Finally, place the Corgi pet next to her. Check all seams and hide any loose yarn ends inside the body stuffing to ensure a clean, professional finish.

Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines

Because this project features intricate embroidery and multiple layers of high-quality knitwear, proper care is essential to maintain its heirloom status. This bunny is an art piece and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the poppy petals.

Washing Instructions

Hand washing is the only recommended method for this character. Fill a clean basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of a gentle detergent designed for wool or fine fibers. Submerge the bunny slowly, avoiding aggressive scrubbing. Do not scrub the embroidered areas on the dress or the paw prints on the cardigan, as this can distort the fibers. Let the doll soak for 10-15 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 fiberfill and ruin the shape of the head and the A-line dress. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant red and ginger colors. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the cardigan and skin feeling exceptionally soft. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing to restore her original plump shape.

Long-term Preservation

If the bunny is intended for display, keep her in a dust-free environment, such as a glass-fronted cabinet. Avoid placing her in direct sunlight for extended periods, as natural wool can be sensitive to UV rays. If the poppy blooms become flattened, gently use a small knitting needle to “fluff” the petals back into their rounded shape. By following these maintenance steps, your Poppy Field Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come.

Knitting a project of this scale and detail is a labor of love. Every stitch in the red cardigan and every embroidered poppy on the dress contributes to a narrative of patience and artistic expression. Whether this bunny is intended for a personal collection or as a significant gift, the effort and quality materials invested in her creation make her truly priceless. Enjoy the process of bringing this meadow-dwelling rabbit to life!