The Scarlet Tulip & Kitten Bunny is a sophisticated and whimsical project that combines advanced colorwork with the charm of miniature character design. This project features a rabbit crafted in natural taupe tones, wearing a striking ensemble of a vibrant scarlet red sweater and a soft sage green skirt adorned with a garden of embroidered tulips. The sweater serves as the artistic centerpiece, showcasing a playful kitten motif tangled in a ball of yarn. To achieve the professional results seen in the reference, it is highly recommended to buy premium extra-fine merino wool or a high-quality wool-cotton blend, as these fibers provide the necessary stitch definition for the intricate intarsia and embroidery. When you purchase specific yarns for this project, you ensure that the finished heirloom remains soft, durable, and vivid for years to come. This design is perfect for intermediate to advanced knitters looking to practice sculptural shaping and decorative finishing techniques.

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

Essential Materials and Tools

Selecting the right materials is the foundation of creating a character that looks exactly like the image. For this project, you will need DK weight (8-ply) yarn in the following colors and quantities:

• Natural Taupe: 100g (Bunny body, head, and limbs).
• Scarlet Red: 75g (Sweater, shoes, hat, and tulip blossoms).
• Sage Green: 50g (Skirt and hat stripes).
• Cool Grey: 25g (Kitten companion).
• Pure White: 25g (Kitten details and yarn ball accessory).
• Medium Brown: Small amount (Nose and mouth embroidery).
• Dark Green: Scraps (Tulip stems and leaves).

In addition to the yarn, ensure you have the following tools ready:

• US Size 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needles for the magic loop method.
• US Size 3 (3.25mm) needles for the clothing components to allow for a slightly looser drape.
• 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny.
• 4mm black safety eyes or beads for the kitten companion.
• High-quality polyester fiberfill stuffing.
• A sharp tapestry needle for seamless assembly.
• Fine embroidery needles for the kitten and tulip details.
• Pink cosmetic blush and a cotton swab for the cheeks.
• A pair of small embroidery scissors (decorative prop).

Knitting Abbreviations and Techniques

• 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 same stitch (increase)
• m1: make one stitch by lifting the horizontal 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 knitted tube worked on two needles
• Intarsia: a colorwork technique used for large blocks of color (the kitten on the sweater).

The Foundation: Knitting the Bunny Legs

The bunny is constructed from the bottom up to ensure stability. We will begin with the feet and work upward to the legs, which will later be joined to form the torso.

Right Leg

Using the Natural Taupe yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across three needles and join for working in the round, being careful not to twist the stitches.

1. Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
2. Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
3. Rnd 3-10: Knit every stitch. This forms the base and sides of the foot.
4. Rnd 11: k12, (k2tog) 4 times, k12 (28 sts). This shapes the front instep.
5. Rnd 12: k10, (k2tog) 4 times, k10 (24 sts).
6. Rnd 13: Knit all stitches.
7. Rnds 14-42: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 5 inches (13 cm).

Stuff the foot area very firmly, ensuring the toe area is rounded and the heel is defined. Stuff the rest of the leg moderately to allow for flexibility. Leave the stitches on a holder or a spare needle.

Left Leg

Repeat the exact instructions as provided for the right leg. After reaching Round 42, do not break the yarn. We will use the working yarn from the left leg to initiate the joining process for the body.

Constructing the Bunny Torso and Hips

Joining the legs is a critical point in the design to create the wide, rounded hips that allow the bunny to sit naturally as shown in the photo.

Rnd 43 (Joining): Knit across the 24 stitches of the left leg, cast on 4 stitches for the center gap, knit across the 24 stitches of the right leg, and cast on another 4 stitches for the back (56 sts total).
Rnds 44-60: Knit all stitches in the round. This establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Ensure your tension remains firm to hide the stuffing.
Rnd 61: *k12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 62-66: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 67: *k11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 68-72: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 73: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 74-78: Knit all stitches. At this stage, begin stuffing the lower body firmly. Push the fiberfill toward the sides to define the rounded hip silhouette.
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 narrow neck area. Do not bind off; we will proceed directly to the head.

📌Thank you for reading the article.

The Bunny Head and Facial Sculpting

The head is worked directly from the neck to ensure structural integrity. We use specific increases to create the broad, sweet cheeks and the slightly tapered bridge of the nose.

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 88-106: Knit all stitches in stockinette. This builds the vertical volume of the face and forehead. It should look like a rounded dome.
Position 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.
Rnd 107: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 108: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 109: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 110: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 111: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
Begin stuffing the head very firmly. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead. Use small amounts of fiberfill to avoid lumps.
Rnd 112: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 113: *k1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 114: k2tog around (8 sts). Break the yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread the tail through the remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and weave in the end securely inside the head.

Long Upright Ears and Slender Arms

Detailed Ears (Make 2)

The ears are long and stand tall with a slight natural curve. We work them flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. Use the Natural Taupe yarn and 3.0mm needles.

Cast on 12 stitches.
Rows 1-45: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long rectangle.
Row 46: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (10 sts).
Row 47: Purl all stitches.
Row 48: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
Row 49: Purl all.
Row 50: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (6 sts).
Bind off all stitches. Fold the bottom edge of the ear slightly in half to create depth and sew to the top of the head at Round 110. The ears should be positioned parallel to each other.

Slender Arm Construction (Make 2)

The arms should be stuffed lighter than the legs so they can rest naturally at the bunny’s side or hold accessories. Join Natural Taupe yarn in the round on DPNs.

1. Cast on 10 stitches.
2. Rnds 1-38: Knit every stitch in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
3. Rnd 39: *k3, k2tog* repeat (8 sts).
4. Rnd 40: k2tog around (4 sts).

Break yarn and pull through. Stuff the hand area firmly and the upper arm very lightly. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck line at Round 82.

The Scarlet Kitten Sweater

The sweater is a standout piece worked flat with garter stitch borders and a high neckline. The kitten motif is added using a combination of intarsia and duplicate stitch for a raised effect.

Sweater Body

Using the Scarlet Red yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. Work flat to allow for easier colorwork on the front panel.

1. Rows 1-4: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch border).
2. Rows 5-25: Continue in stockinette stitch. On the front 22 stitches, begin the kitten motif.
3. Kitten Motif: Use the Grey yarn to create a small sitting cat shape. The cat should have a rounded body, a smaller head, and a long tail wrapping around to the front. Use the White yarn to create a small “ball” shape next to the cat’s paw.
4. Divide for armholes: Work 12 stitches for the front, bind off 4 stitches, work 12 stitches for the back, bind off 4 stitches, work 12 stitches for the second front.
5. Work each section for 12 rows. On the last row, bind off all stitches.

Sweater Sleeves and Finishing

Pick up 16 stitches around each armhole using the Scarlet Red yarn. Knit in the round for 20 rounds. Bind off loosely. Sew the shoulder seams. Use Brown thread to embroider the kitten’s eyes and a tiny pink nose. Use White yarn to add a thin “thread” line from the kitten’s paw to the ball of yarn to mimic play.

The Sage Green Tulip Skirt

The skirt features a flared A-line silhouette with a simple garter stitch hem. The tulip blossoms are added after the knitting is complete using embroidery techniques to ensure 100% accuracy to the image.

Skirt Construction

Using the Sage Green yarn and 3.25mm circular needles, cast on 80 stitches. Join in the round.

1. Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean hem that won’t roll.
2. Rnds 7-32: Continue in stockinette stitch. The skirt should fall just above the bunny’s ankles.
3. Rnd 33 (Waist Shaping): *k8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
4. Rnd 34: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
5. Rnd 35: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
6. Bind off all stitches loosely.

Tulip Embroidery Guide

The embroidery should be positioned evenly around the circumference of the skirt hem. Use the Scarlet Red yarn and Dark Green thread.
The Blossoms: Use three small vertical satin stitches in Scarlet Red to create a cup-shaped tulip blossom. Each flower should be about 3 stitches wide.
The Stems and Leaves: Using a stem stitch or backstitch with Dark Green thread, create short vertical stems connecting the flowers to the hem. Add two long, narrow lazy-daisy stitches at the base of each stem for leaves. Space 10 to 12 tulips evenly around the skirt.

📌Thank you for reading the article.

Scarlet Accessories: Hat and Shoes

The Striped Beanie Hat

This hat frames the bunny’s face and matches the harvest theme of the sweater. We use the Scarlet Red and Sage Green yarns.

1. Using Scarlet Red, cast on 48 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rnds 1-3: Knit all stitches.
3. Rnd 4: Join Sage Green. Knit all stitches.
4. Rnd 5: Knit all in Sage Green.
5. Rnd 6: Change back to Scarlet Red. Knit all stitches.
6. Rnds 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch with Scarlet Red. This builds the crown.
7. Rnd 21: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
8. Rnd 22: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
9. Continue decreasing until 6 stitches remain. Pull yarn through and fasten off.

Scarlet T-Strap Shoes (Make 2)

The shoes are knitted as separate items to fit over the bunny’s feet. Use the Scarlet Red yarn.

1. Cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rnd 1-4: Knit all stitches. This forms the side of the shoe.
3. Rnd 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
4. Rnd 6: Bind off 17 stitches.
5. T-Strap: Pick up 10 stitches at the heel area and knit 2 rows. Bind off. Pick up 8 stitches across the top of the foot and sew it to the center of the heel strap to form the “T” shape. Secure with a tiny red bead or button.

The Grey Tabby Kitten Companion

This tiny pet is worked in several small parts and requires careful assembly to achieve the standing pose holding a flower as seen in the image.

Kitten Body and Head

Using Grey yarn and 3.0mm needles.

1. Body: Cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. Rnd 1: kfb around (12 sts). Rnd 2-12: Knit. Rnd 13: k2tog around (6 sts). Stuff firmly and close.
2. Head: Cast on 6 stitches. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2: *k1, kfb* (18). Rnd 3-8: Knit. Rnd 9: *k1, k2tog* (12). Stuff firmly. Rnd 10: k2tog around (6). Close and sew to the body.
3. Limbs: Cast on 4 stitches. Knit 6 rows of stockinette. Make four. Sew two to the bottom to allow the kitten to stand and two to the sides as arms.
4. Tail: Knit a 3-stitch I-cord for 2 inches. Sew to the back.

Kitten Details and Tulip

Use White yarn to embroider a small “V” on the kitten’s chest and paws. Add two tiny white triangles on the face for the muzzle. Embroider black eyes and a pink nose.
Tiny Kitten Tulip: Knit a 1-inch I-cord in Green. Knit a tiny red bobble or circle (cast on 4, knit 2 rows, bind off) and sew to the top of the stem. Stitch the tulip into the kitten’s paws so it appears to be holding it.

Finishing Touches: The Yarn Ball and Face

The White Ball of Yarn

This is a simple stuffed sphere used as a decorative prop. Using White yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Rnd 1: kfb around (12). Rnd 2: *k1, kfb* (18). Rnds 3-8: Knit. Rnd 9: *k1, k2tog* (12). Stuff firmly. Rnd 10: k2tog around (6). Close. Leave a long tail of 12 inches of yarn hanging from the ball to look like loose thread.

Facial Embroidery and Blush

Proper facial detailing is what brings the bunny to life. Ensure all parts are aligned perfectly with the reference image.

1. Nose and Mouth: Use the Medium Brown embroidery thread and a tapestry needle to stitch a small “Y” shape centered exactly between the safety eyes. The mouth should be small and positioned low to create a sweet, innocent expression.
2. Cheeks: Using a cotton swab, apply a very small amount of actual pink cosmetic blush to the bunny’s cheeks in a small, circular motion. This adds a youthful, healthy glow.
3. Eye Sparkle: Add a tiny single stitch of White yarn at the outer top edge of each safety eye to create a realistic “sparkle.”

Assembly and Final Presentation

Dress the bunny in the Sage Green skirt first, pulling it up to the waist. Layer the Scarlet Red sweater over the top, ensuring the sleeves are pulled down and the kitten motif is visible and centered. Place the striped hat between the ears, tilting it slightly to one side for a fashionable look. Tuck the Scarlet red shoes onto the feet.

Position the Grey Kitten companion next to the bunny’s feet. Place the White ball of yarn and the embroidery scissors on the surface nearby to complete the “handicraft” scene. Check all seams for any gaps and ensure all loose yarn ends are woven in deeply so they are hidden within the stuffing. Your Scarlet Tulip & Kitten Bunny is now complete and ready for display.

Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines

Because this project features intricate embroidery, intarsia colorwork, and delicate 3D accessories, proper care is essential to maintain its heirloom quality. This bunny is an art piece and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the tulip blossoms.

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 tulips on the skirt or the kitten motif on the sweater, as this can distort the stitches or cause the grey kitten’s standing limbs to lose their shape. 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 skirt. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant Scarlet Red and Sage Green colors. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and wardrobe feeling exceptionally soft. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing to restore her original plump shape.

Preservation

If the bunny is intended for long-term 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 tulip blossoms become flattened, gently use a small knitting needle to “fluff” the petals back into their rounded shape. By following these maintenance steps, your Scarlet Tulip & Kitten Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come.

Knitting a character of this complexity is a labor of love. Every stitch in the scarlet sweater and every petal on the skirt 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 garden-dwelling rabbit to life!

“`