The Sunflower Harvest Bunny is a stunning heirloom-quality piece that captures the golden warmth of late summer and the abundance of the harvest season. This character is designed with an eye for intricate detail, featuring a cream-colored bunny dressed in a rich chocolate brown dress with a massive sunflower intarsia centerpiece. Her vibrant yellow vest is accented with a whimsical squirrel motif, and her accessories include a miniature squirrel companion and a basket brimming with striped sunflower seeds. For enthusiasts who want to achieve this professional result, it is highly recommended to buy premium extra-fine merino wool or a high-twist cotton blend, as these fibers provide the necessary stitch definition for the complex floral work. When you buy specific yarns for this project, you ensure that the finished art doll maintains its shape and soft texture for years of display. This design is perfect for those looking to purchase high-quality materials and transform them into a unique work of art that radiates rustic charm and seasonal beauty.

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 Specialized Tools

Creating a 100% accurate representation of this bunny requires attention to yarn weight and color palette. Using DK weight (8-ply) yarn is the standard for this size, providing enough structural integrity for the character to stand or sit comfortably while allowing for fine embroidery details.

• Main Body Color: 100g of Cream or Off-White wool. A soft matte finish is best to contrast with the vibrant clothing.
• Dress Color: 50g of Dark Chocolate Brown.
• Vest & Sunflower Petals: 50g of Golden Mustard Yellow.
• Hat & Shoe Accents: 30g of Cream (matching the body) and Light Tan.
• Companion & Details: 25g of Ginger or Cinnamon Brown for the squirrel and shoes.
• Embroidery Details: Scraps of Black, Dark Brown (for the sunflower center), and Forest Green (for the sunflower leaves).
• Needles: 2.75mm (US 2) for the bunny body and 3.25mm (US 3) for the clothing items. Using a smaller needle than recommended for the yarn creates a dense fabric that hides the stuffing.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny; 4mm black beads or embroidery thread for the squirrel.
• Stuffing: High-grade polyester fiberfill.
• Tools: Tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and a small wooden spoon or miniature shovel for the basket.

Knitting Abbreviations

• 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
• I-cord: a narrow tube of knitting worked on two needles

Bunny Foundation: Leg and Foot Construction

The construction begins at the base of the feet to provide a sturdy foundation for the bunny’s standing posture. We work the legs as seamless tubes to ensure a professional look without bulky side seams.

Right Leg Construction

Using the cream yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across your double-pointed needles and join in the round, being careful not to twist the stitches.

Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 3-9: Knit all stitches. This forms the volume of the foot.
Rnd 10: k12, (k2tog) 4 times, k12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep curve.
Rnd 11: k10, (k2tog) 4 times, k10 (24 sts).
Rnds 12-42: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg reaches roughly 5 inches. Stuff the foot area very firmly, ensuring the toe is rounded and the heel is defined. Stuff the upper leg moderately to allow for seated flexibility. Leave the stitches on a holder.

Left Leg Construction

Repeat the exact instructions as the right leg. Upon finishing Round 42, do not break the yarn. This working yarn will be used to initiate the body join in the next section.

Building the Torso and Hips

Joining the legs correctly is vital for the bunny’s posture. We will create a bridge between the legs to give her the wide, rounded hips required for the chocolate brown dress to sit elegantly.

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 44-58: Knit all stitches in the round. This establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Maintain a firm tension to ensure the fabric is smooth.
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 lower body firmly. Focus on pushing the 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 narrow neck area. Do not bind off, as the head is worked directly from these stitches.

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Bunny Body: Head and Facial Sculpting

The head requires specific increases to define the broad, sweet cheeks and the slightly tapered bridge of the nose. This part must be stuffed very firmly to support the weight of the ears and the bucket hat.

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 in stockinette. This builds the vertical volume of the face. It should look like a rounded dome.
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.

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, 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 cream yarn and straight 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 cream yarn in the round on DPNs.

Cast on 10 stitches.
Rnds 1-38: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
Rnd 39: *k3, k2tog* (8 sts).
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 Chocolate Brown Sunflower Dress

This dress is a flared A-line silhouette with a simple rolled hem. The large sunflower centerpiece is the artistic heart of the character and is worked using the intarsia method or detailed duplicate stitch for a raised effect.

Knitting the Dress

Using the dark chocolate brown yarn and 3.25mm circular 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 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch in brown.
Rnd 21: Begin the sunflower intarsia. Centered on the front of the skirt, join the yellow yarn for the petals and dark brown for the center. The sunflower should span approximately 28 stitches wide and 22 rows high.
Rnd 22-42: Work the sunflower motif. The petals are pointed yellow shapes radiating from a textured dark brown center. Use the Forest Green yarn to add two small leaves at the base of the flower head.
Rnd 43 (Waist Shaping): *k8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 44: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 45: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 46-52: Knit all stitches for the bodice in chocolate brown. 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.

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Sunflower Detail Refinement

Once the dress is off the needles, use dark brown yarn to add French knots in the center of the sunflower to mimic seeds. Use forest green to add a backstitch stem if needed to connect the flower to the hem. This gives the dress 100% accuracy to the artisan style seen in the image.

The Mustard Yellow Harvest Vest

The vest is a modern addition that provides a pop of color and a focal point for the squirrel motif. It is worked flat and features a high, open neckline.

Vest Construction

Using the mustard yellow yarn, cast on 36 stitches. We work this flat on straight needles.
Rows 1-4: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch border).
Row 5 (RS): k3, m1, k to last 3 sts, m1, k3 (38 sts).
Row 6 (WS): k3, p to last 3 sts, k3.
Rows 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch, keeping the first and last 3 stitches in garter stitch for the front plackets.
Divide for armholes: Work 9 stitches for the front, bind off 3 stitches, work 14 stitches for the back, bind off 3 stitches, work 9 stitches for the second front.
Work each section for 10 rows. On the last row, bind off all stitches. Sew the shoulder seams. The vest should remain open at the front as shown in the photo.

Squirrel Embroidery Detail

On the right front panel of the mustard vest, use ginger brown yarn to embroider a tiny squirrel. Start with a small brown oval for the body and a smaller circle for the head. Add two tiny pointed ears. For the tail, use a textured loop stitch or brush out the yarn slightly with a comb to create the “fluffy” effect seen in the image. Embroider a tiny black dot for the eye and a small dark brown acorn in the squirrel’s paws.

The Floral Bucket Hat and Mary Jane Shoes

The Cream Bucket Hat

Using the cream yarn, cast on 48 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This forms the slightly flared brim.
Rnds 7-18: Continue in stockinette stitch. This forms the side walls of the hat.
Rnd 19: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnd 20: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Break yarn and pull through to close.
Hat Decoration: Knit a band of tiny sunflowers. Using yellow yarn, cast on 40 stitches. Row 1: *k1, bind off 3* repeat across to create small “petals”. Sew this strip around the hat crown. Use dark brown French knots for the centers of these tiny blossoms.

Ginger Brown Mary Janes (Make 2)

Using the ginger brown 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 rounded toe box.
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 into the leg oatmeal skin if necessary. These shoes provide a sturdy base that matches the rustic harvest aesthetic.

Accessories: Miniature Squirrel and Seed Basket

The Tiny Squirrel Companion

This tiny pet is worked in ginger brown and cream yarn to capture the look of a real forest animal.

Body and Head: Cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2-8: Knit. Rnd 9: k2tog (6). Stuff lightly and close.
Fluffy Tail: Using ginger yarn, cast on 10 stitches. Row 1-6: Knit every row. Bind off. Brush the knitted piece vigorously with a clean wire brush until it is shaggy and fluffy. Sew to the back of the body.
Details: Add two tiny white dots on the belly using duplicate stitch. Embroider eyes with black thread. Position the squirrel next to the bunny’s feet.

The Wicker Seed Basket

Using light tan yarn and a specific texture to mimic woven wicker.
Basket Base: Cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2: *k1, kfb* (18). Rnd 3: *k2, kfb* (24).
Basket Walls: Rnd 4: In back loops only, p all. Rnds 5-12: *k1, p1* ribbing (this creates the wicker effect). Bind off.
Handle: Knit a 5-inch I-cord and sew to the sides.
Sunflower Seeds: Knit tiny black and white striped tubes. Cast on 4 stitches. Work 4 rows, alternating black and white every row. Close ends. Make 10 seeds and place them inside the basket along with a miniature grey knitted shovel.

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

The character’s personality is brought to life during the final sewing stage. Ensure all parts are aligned perfectly with the reference image. The head should be centered on the neck, and the arms should be positioned high enough to allow the vest to sit flat over the dress.

Facial Embroidery

Use the dark brown yarn to embroider a small “Y” shape centered between the safety eyes for the nose and mouth. Keep the stitches tight and delicate for a sweet expression. The mouth should be positioned low on the face to create a youthful look.

Cheek Blush

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 that mimics the soft lighting in the photo.

Dressing the Bunny

Place the chocolate brown dress on the bunny first, ensuring the sunflower is perfectly centered. Layer the mustard yellow vest over her shoulders. Secure the Mary Janes on her feet. Position the floral hat between her ears, tilting it slightly to one side. Finally, place the miniature squirrel and the basket of seeds next to her. Check all seams and hide any loose yarn ends deep inside the body stuffing to ensure a clean, professional finish.

Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines

Because this project features intricate embroidery, intarsia colorwork, and shaggy textures (like the squirrel’s tail), 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 matting of the fibers.

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 squirrel or the sunflower petals, as this can distort the stitches. 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 yellow and chocolate colors. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and vest feeling exceptionally soft. Once dry, you may need to gently brush the squirrel’s tail again with a comb to restore its fluffiness.

Knitting a project of this scale and detail is a labor of love. Every stitch in the mustard vest and every petal on the brown 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 harvest-themed rabbit to life!

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