The Pink Camellia & Poodle Bunny is a breathtaking heirloom-quality piece that exemplifies the charm of classic doll-making and botanical artistry. This character features a gentle cream-toned rabbit outfitted in a sophisticated ensemble consisting of a rose-pink cardigan with a poodle motif and a flared ivory skirt embellished with hand-embroidered camellias. 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 poodle 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 collection.
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 Specialized Tools
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.
- 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.
- Cardigan & Shoes: 75g of DK weight wool in a soft Rose Pink or Dusty Rose.
- Skirt and Hat: 75g of DK weight wool in Cream or Off-White to match the body.
- Embroidery Details: 10g of Charcoal Black for the poodle silhouette and small scraps of Sage Green and Deep Pink for the camellia blossoms.
- Poodle Companion: 25g of White textured “bouclé” or “pipsqueak” yarn for the body; smooth white for the face.
- 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 tiny poodle.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 250g).
- Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, three 6mm white buttons for the cardigan, and two tiny pearls for the shoes.
- Beauty Accessories: Small scraps of pink and cream yarn for the lipstick and heart bag.
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. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the cardigan 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.
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.
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 14-45: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 5.5 inches (14 cm) from the sole. Ensure your tension remains extremely consistent.
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 45, 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 ivory skirt to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning.
Rnd 46 (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 47-62: 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 63: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 64-68: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 69: *Knit 11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 70-74: 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 75: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 76-80: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 81: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 82: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 83: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 84: *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 and prevent a wobbly head.
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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 bucket hat will be placed on top.
The Snout and Face
Rnd 85: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 86: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 87: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 88: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 89: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
Rnds 90-110: 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 100 and 101, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are centered and level for a balanced gaze.
Closing the Crown
Rnd 111: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 112: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 113: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 114: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 115: *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 116: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 117: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 118: 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 before showing a natural floppy drape. 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.
Rows 1-45: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long 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 114, spacing them about 4 stitches apart.
Slender Arm Construction (Make 2)
The arms should be stuffed lighter than the legs so they can rest naturally at the bunny’s side. Join cream yarn in the round on 2.75mm needles.
- Cast on 10 stitches.
- Rnds 1-38: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge.
- Rnd 39: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat (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 84.
The Ivory Camellia Garden Skirt
The skirt features a wide A-line silhouette with intricate hand-embroidered rose sprigs along the bottom hem. We use the ivory yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.
Knitting the Skirt
Cast on 84 stitches in Ivory. 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.
Bind off all stitches. Secure the skirt at the bunny’s waist with hidden stitches.
Camellia Embroidery Guide
The flowers are worked using the deep pink and sage green yarns. Use a fine embroidery needle.
The Blossoms: Create 5-6 large pink flowers around the hem using the bullion knot or spider web rose stitch. This gives the flowers a 3D effect as seen in the image.
Leaves and Stems: Use a simple stem stitch for the green vines and lazy daisy stitches for the leaves. This detail must be repeated around the entire circumference for 100% accuracy.
The Rose Pink Cardigan and Poodle Motif
The cardigan is the standout piece of the wardrobe. It is worked flat and features short sleeves and two functional pockets on the front. On the left pocket, a black poodle silhouette is embroidered.
Cardigan Body
Using Rose Pink yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. Work flat.
Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing.
Rows 5-25: Stockinette stitch. At Row 10, mark the positions for the two pockets (each 8 stitches wide) on the front panels.
Divide for armholes: Work 10 sts, bind off 4 sts, work 16 sts (Back), bind off 4 sts, work 10 sts. Work sections separately for 12 rows, then bind off and sew shoulder seams.
Sleeves: Pick up 16 stitches around the armhole opening and knit for 18 rows in stockinette. Finish with 3 rows of ribbing.
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Poodle Embroidery Detail
On the left front panel (bunny’s left), use Charcoal Black yarn to embroider a tiny poodle silhouette. Start with a small oval for the body and a smaller circle for the head. Add a “pom-pom” tail and four tiny legs. This detail is essential for a museum-quality finish. Secure three tiny white buttons down the front center of the cardigan.
Accessories: Poodle Companion and Beauty Kit
The Miniature White Poodle
This tiny companion sits next to the bunny and requires careful assembly to achieve the shaggy retriever look.
- Body: Using White textured yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb to 12. Knit 8 rounds. Rnd 9: k2tog (6). Stuff firmly and close.
- Head: Using smooth white yarn, cast on 8 stitches, increase to 12. Knit 4 rounds. Use white for the muzzle. Close and sew to body.
- Details: Add tiny floppy ears using textured yarn and a small pink bow on the head. Embroider eyes and nose.
Hand Mirror and Lipstick
Hand Mirror: Using Cream yarn, knit two small circles (10 sts each). Sandwich a small piece of silver foil or plastic between them and sew together. Attach a 1-inch I-cord for the handle.
Lipstick: Knit a tiny tube in Cream (4 sts for 3 rows) and switch to Deep Pink for the top (3 rows). Close and stuff lightly.
Heart-Shaped Messenger Bag
Using Cream yarn, cast on 3 stitches. Row 1: kfb into first and last st (5 sts). Row 2-4: Knit. Shape the heart by working the two humps separately and decreasing. Repeat for the back. Sew together. Knit a 12-inch I-cord for the strap and attach to the sides. Add a tiny pink button to the center.
The Ivory Bucket Hat and Mary Janes
Bucket Hat Construction
The hat frames the bunny’s face and coordinates with the garden theme. Use the cream yarn and 3.25mm needles.
Cast on 48 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This forms the rolled brim.
Rnds 7-18: Continue in stockinette stitch. This forms the side walls of the hat.
Rnd 19: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through and fasten off. Place the hat next to the bunny.
Rose Pink Mary Janes (Make 2)
Using Rose Pink yarn and 3.0mm needles, 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: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately. Sew a tiny pearl to the side of the strap for a boutique look. Slip onto the feet.
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 ivory skirt on the bunny first, followed by the rose pink cardigan. Slip the Mary Jane shoes onto the feet. Place the heart bag over her shoulder. Finally, position the white poodle next to her and place the mirror and lipstick 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, textured yarns, 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 and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the merino 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 camellias or the poodle silhouette, 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 pink colors. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and sweater feeling exceptionally soft. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing to restore her original plump shape.
Knitting a project of this scale and detail is a labor of love. Every button on the pink cardigan and every petal on the ivory 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 garden-dwelling rabbit to life!
