The Begonia & Caterpillar Bunny is an enchanting masterpiece of fiber art that captures the delicate transition from the vibrant garden blooms of summer to the curious life of the forest floor. This character features a gentle cream-toned rabbit outfitted in a sophisticated ensemble consisting of a coral caterpillar-themed top and a mint-green skirt embellished with hand-embroidered begonia blossoms. To achieve the professional, high-end finish seen in the reference images, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist cotton-merino blend that offers superior stitch definition. When you purchase specialized amigurumi kits and buy high-quality knitting needles, the silhouette of the caterpillar motif and the delicate floral petals remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for those looking to order artisan yarn supplies and invest their creative energy into a masterpiece that will be cherished for many generations as a centerpiece of any heirloom collection.
Please note: I strive for accuracy in every pattern, but occasional errors can happen. Thank you for understanding and for enjoying my designs.
Project Materials and Technical Specifications
Creating a 100% accurate reproduction of this character requires specific attention to the color palette and yarn weights. Using a consistent DK weight (8-ply) throughout ensures that the clothing fits the bunny’s proportions perfectly. The fabric must be dense to hide the stuffing, so choosing a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer suggests is a professional secret for high-end doll making. Ensure you have all the necessary knitting supplies before beginning.
- Main Bunny Body: Approximately 100g of DK weight wool in Cream or Soft Ivory. A natural, high-twist fiber is recommended for a smooth finish.
- Caterpillar Top: 50g of DK weight wool in Coral or Warm Pink.
- Begonia Skirt: 75g of DK weight wool in Mint Green or Seafoam.
- Hat & Embroidery Petals: 30g of DK weight wool in Rose Pink or Soft Begonia Pink.
- Accessories (Bag & Sandals): 30g of DK weight yarn in Olive Green or Moss Green.
- Caterpillar Details: 15g of Bright Spring Green and small amounts of Dark Green and Black for embroidery.
- Cocoon Prop: Small amount of White or Pearl textured yarn.
- Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) and US Size 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circulars for the magic loop method.
- Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the main bunny; 4mm black beads for the 3D caterpillar.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 250g).
- Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and tiny wooden buttons for the sandals.
Structural Gauge and Tension Control
Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a museum-quality piece. For the bunny’s body, aim for a gauge of approximately 26 stitches and 34 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the 2.75mm needles. The fabric should feel solid and have very little “give” when stretched. This prevents the white stuffing from becoming visible when the limbs are posed.
The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the top and skirt against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended to ensure the proportions match the image perfectly. Ensure you maintain an even gauge throughout, especially when transitioning between the body and the clothing items. If you buy artisan yarn, make sure to check the specific yardage as natural fibers vary.
Bunny Foundation: Leg and Foot Construction
The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward. This provides the bunny with the stability needed for its standing or seated posture. We work the legs as seamless tubes to avoid bulky side seams that would detract from the professional finish. This bunny is designed with long, slender legs that look beautiful when draped over the edge of a table.
The Right Leg
Using the cream-colored yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across your needles and join for working in the round, ensuring the stitches are not twisted. Place a marker at the start of the round.
Rnd 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
Rnd 2: *Knit 2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
Rnd 3-10: Knit every stitch across the next eight rounds. This builds the rounded base and sides of the foot.
Rnd 11: Knit 12, (knit 2 together – k2tog) 4 times, knit 12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
Rnd 12: Knit 10, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 10 (24 sts).
Rnd 13: Knit all stitches around.
Rnds 14-50: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 6 inches (15 cm) from the sole. The extra length is key for the “long-legged” aesthetic.
Stuff the foot area very firmly, using your fingers to shape a rounded toe and a distinct heel. Stuff the rest of the leg moderately to allow for flexibility at the hip join. Leave these stitches on a holder or spare needle.
The Left Leg
Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg. After reaching Round 50, do not break the yarn. This working yarn will be used to initiate the joining process for the torso in the next section. Ensure the lengths are identical before proceeding.
Building the Plump 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 required for the mint skirt to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning.
Rnd 51 (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 gap (56 sts total).
Rnds 52-70: Knit every stitch in the round. This section establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Maintain a firm tension to ensure the fabric is smooth and dense.
Rnd 71: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 72-76: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 77: *Knit 11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 78-82: Knit all stitches around. At this stage, begin stuffing the lower body firmly. Focus on pushing the stuffing toward the sides to define the rounded hip silhouette seen in the image.
Rnd 83: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 84-88: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 89: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 90: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 91: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 92: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts). This forms the narrow neck area. Do not bind off, as the head is worked directly from these stitches to ensure structural strength.
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Shaping the Bunny 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 maintain its shape over time, especially since the heavy pink sun hat will be placed on top.
The Snout and Face
Rnd 93: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 94: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 95: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 96: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 97: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
Rnds 98-118: Knit all stitches in stockinette. This vertical growth creates the main volume of the face and forehead. It should look like a rounded dome.
Position the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 108 and 109, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level and aligned with the center of the feet for a balanced, thoughtful gaze.
Closing the Crown
Rnd 119: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 120: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 121: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 122: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 123: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
Begin stuffing the head very firmly at this point. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead. Use small amounts of stuffing at a time to avoid lumps.
Rnd 124: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 125: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 126: 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 a defining feature, standing tall at the crown. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. Use the cream yarn and 3.0mm needles.
Cast on 12 stitches. Work flat on two needles.
Rows 1-45: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long, elegant rectangle.
Row 46: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, slip-slip-knit (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. Make two. Fold the bottom edge of the ear slightly in half to create depth and sew them to the top of the head at Round 122, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright but have the flexibility to frame the hat later.
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 the caterpillar prop. Join cream yarn in the round on 2.75mm needles.
- Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
- Rnds 1-42: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge.
- Rnd 43: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
- Rnd 44: k2tog around (4 sts).
Break yarn and pull through. Stuff the hand area (bottom) firmly and the upper arm very lightly. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck line at Round 92.
The Caterpillar Coral Top
This sleeveless top is the most vibrant part of the ensemble. It is worked flat and features a large caterpillar intarsia motif on the chest. We use the coral yarn and 3.25mm needles.
Body of the Top
Cast on 44 stitches in Coral. Work flat.
Rows 1-4: *K1, P1* ribbing for the bottom hem.
Rows 5-15: Work in stockinette. On Row 10, begin the caterpillar motif.
Caterpillar Motif: Use the spring green yarn to knit a segmented horizontal body using the duplicate stitch or intarsia method. The caterpillar should span across 12 stitches. Add tiny black antennae and small black dots for eyes after the knitting is complete.
Rows 16-24: Continue in stockinette. On Row 20, divide for armholes: Work 10, bind off 4, work 16, bind off 4, work 10.
Work the sections separately for 10 rows. Bind off. Sew the shoulder seams. The top should have wide armholes to accommodate the bunny’s limbs.
The Mint Begonia Skirt and Floral Embroidery
The skirt features a flared A-line silhouette with intricate hand-embroidered begonia sprigs along the bottom hem. We use the mint green yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.
Knitting the Skirt
Cast on 84 stitches in Mint. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-4: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean hem.
Rnds 5-30: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt, which should fall to the bunny’s mid-calf.
Rnd 31 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 32: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 33: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist perfectly.
Bind off all stitches. Secure the skirt at the bunny’s waist with hidden stitches.
Begonia & Caterpillar Border Guide
The floral embroidery is the artistic centerpiece. Use a fine needle, pink yarn, and leaf green yarn.
The Begonias: Create 5-6 small clusters of pink flowers around the hem using the lazy daisy stitch with three loops per flower. Add a small yellow French knot in the center of each.
The Tiny Caterpillars: Between the flowers, embroider tiny horizontal green lines using a satin stitch to represent small caterpillars crawling along the hem. Add tiny black legs with a single straight stitch. This detail must be repeated around the entire circumference for 100% accuracy.
The Leaf Crossbody Bag and Accessories
The Knitted Leaf Bag
This unique accessory is shaped like a giant elm leaf. Use the olive green yarn.
Leaf Body (Make 2): Cast on 3 stitches. Row 1: K1, m1, k1, m1, k1 (5 sts). Row 2: Purl. Row 3: K2, m1, k1, m1, k2 (7 sts). Continue increasing until you have 15 stitches. Work 4 rows straight. Decrease 1 stitch at the beginning and end of every other row until 3 stitches remain. Bind off.
Assembly: Sew the two leaves together, leaving the top open. Use a dark green embroidery thread to stitch a “vein” pattern onto the surface. Knit a 15-inch I-cord for the strap and attach to the base and tip of the leaf. Drape it across the bunny’s chest.
The Pink Sun Hat
The hat is a simple bucket design shown off the bunny’s head in the photo. Use the rose pink yarn.
Cast on 48 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches for the brim.
Rnds 7-20: Continue in stockinette for the crown.
Rnd 21: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around. Rnd 22: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around. Continue decreasing until 6 stitches remain. Pull yarn through to close.
Olive Strappy Sandals (Make 2)
Using Olive Green yarn and 3.0mm needles.
Sole: Cast on 6 stitches. Work in garter stitch, increasing and then decreasing to form an oval sole. Bind off.
Straps: Pick up 4 stitches at the heel and knit 4 rows. Bind off. Pick up 2 stitches on each side of the toe area and knit two thin 1-inch I-cords. Cross them over the foot and sew to the heel strap. Attach a tiny wooden button to the outer edge of the cross-over.
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The 3D Caterpillar and Pet Leaf
Segmented Caterpillar Pet
This tiny companion is worked in bright green segments.
Segments: Cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2-4: Knit. Rnd 5: k2tog (6). Repeat this pattern 5 times without breaking the yarn to create 5 joined spheres. Stuff each sphere lightly before closing.
Face: Add two tiny black bead eyes and two small black thread antennae to the first sphere. Position the caterpillar on the large knitted leaf.
The White Cocoon Prop
Using the white textured yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in the round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2-8: Knit. Rnd 9: k2tog (6). Stuff firmly and close. The texture of the yarn should look like raw silk. Place this prop near the bunny on the table.
Final Assembly and Facial Expression
The character’s personality is brought to life during the final assembly. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest. Use dark brown embroidery thread to stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth centered exactly between the safety eyes. The mouth should be positioned low on the face to create a sweet, innocent expression. Use a single stitch of white yarn at the outer edge of each safety eye to create a “sparkle” effect.
Cheek Blush: Using a cotton swab, apply a very small amount of actual pink cosmetic blush to the bunny’s cheeks in a circular motion. This adds a youthful, healthy glow that mimics the soft lighting in the photo.
Dressing: Place the mint skirt on the bunny first, ensuring the begonia embroidery is centered. Layer the coral caterpillar top over her shoulders. Slip the olive sandals onto the feet. Place the leaf bag over her shoulder. Finally, position the 3D caterpillar on its leaf next to her and place the cocoon nearby. Check all seams for any gaps and ensure all loose yarn ends are woven in deeply so they are hidden within the stuffing.
Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines
Because this project features intricate embroidery, delicate 3D appliques, and multiple layers of high-quality knitwear, proper care is essential to maintain its heirloom quality. This bunny is an art doll intended for display rather than rough play, and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the fibers.
Washing Instructions: Hand washing is the only recommended method. 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 begonias or the caterpillar motif, as this can distort the stitches. Let the doll soak for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Drying Process: 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 coral and 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.
Long-term 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 begonia petals or caterpillar segments become flattened, gently use a small knitting needle to “fluff” the fibers back into their rounded shape. By following these maintenance steps, your Begonia & Caterpillar 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 coral top and every tiny seed on the begonias 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!
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