The Red Poppy & Field Mouse Bunny is an exquisite masterpiece of fiber art that captures the vibrant beauty of a summer meadow. This project is a sophisticated blend of classic toy construction and intricate botanical embroidery, making it a prized addition to any heirloom collection. To achieve the professional, high-definition results seen in the photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino yarn or organic cotton blends, as these fibers provide the crisp stitch definition required for the delicate floral work. When you purchase high-quality knitting supplies and professional-grade amigurumi eyes, your finished creation attains a museum-quality finish that stands the test of time. This guide offers comprehensive instructions to help you shop for the perfect materials and transform them into a storied art doll that celebrates the harmony between nature and craftsmanship.
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 representation of this bunny requires meticulous attention to yarn weights and color palettes. The character relies on a balance between the soft oatmeal tones of the bunny’s skin and the striking contrast of black, white, and scarlet in her wardrobe. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer recommends is a professional secret for creating a dense, opaque fabric that keeps the internal fiberfill completely concealed.
- Main Body Yarn: Approximately 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Soft Beige. Natural fibers are preferred for a matte, heritage finish.
- Dress Yarn: 100g of DK weight yarn in Crisp White or Cream.
- Cardigan & Shoes Yarn: 75g of DK weight yarn in Jet Black.
- Hat & Bag Yarn: 50g of DK weight yarn in Scarlet Red.
- Embroidery & Accent Yarns:
- Scarlet Red (Poppy petals).
- Leaf Green (Poppy stems and leaves).
- Charcoal Black (Poppy centers and facial features).
- Light Grey (Tiny mouse companion).
- Medium Brown (Acorn motif on cardigan).
- Knitting 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 bunny; 4mm beads or embroidery for the mouse pet.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 300g).
- Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and a tiny button for the dress pocket.
Structural Gauge and Tension Control
Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple knit into a high-end heirloom 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 dress and cardigan against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended to ensure the proportions match the image perfectly.
The Bunny Foundation: Leg and Foot Construction
The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward to ensure the bunny has the structural integrity to support the heavy knitted layers of her wardrobe. We work the legs as seamless tubes for a professional, clean finish that mimics artisanal boutique toys. This bunny is designed with a natural seated posture, so the joint between the legs and torso is specifically shaped to allow her to sit comfortably on a wooden surface.
Right Leg Construction
Using the oatmeal-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 (knit every round) 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.
Left Leg Construction
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 of both legs 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 white dress to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning over time.
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 47-65: 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 66: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 67-72: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 73: *Knit 11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 74-78: 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 79: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 80-84: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 85: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 86: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 87: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 88: *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” effect.
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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 red beret will add significant weight to the crown of the head.
The Snout and Face
Rnd 89: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 90: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 91: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 92: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 93: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
Rnds 94-115: Knit all stitches in stockinette. This vertical growth creates the main volume of the face and forehead. It should look like a rounded, slightly elongated dome.
Position the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 104 and 105, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are centered relative to the front of the feet for a balanced, thoughtful gaze.
Closing the Crown
Rnd 116: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 117: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 118: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 119: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 120: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
Begin stuffing the head very firmly at this point. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks. Use small amounts of stuffing at a time to avoid lumps.
Rnd 121: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 122: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 123: 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 of this bunny, standing tall and slightly pointed at the crown. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. Use the oatmeal 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 stitches.
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 them to the top of the head at Round 118, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright but have the flexibility to frame the red beret.
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 poppy bouquet. Join oatmeal 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 (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 88.
The White Poppy Garden Dress
This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with a simple garter stitch hem and a functional front pocket. The floral embroidery is the artistic centerpiece of the garment and is added after the knitting is complete. We use the White yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.
Knitting the Dress Skirt
Cast on 84 stitches in White. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean, weighted hem.
Rnds 7-30: 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 loosely.
Functional Front Pocket
Knit a separate small square in white yarn (12 sts x 12 rows). Sew this to the front right side of the skirt, leaving the top open. This pocket is specifically designed to house the miniature grey mouse companion. Decorate the pocket edge with a row of tiny black cross-stitches.
Poppy Border Embroidery Guide
The poppies are positioned in a continuous row around the entire circumference of the skirt hem. Use a fine embroidery needle, scarlet red yarn, and leaf green yarn.
The Stems: Using a stem stitch or backstitch with green yarn, create short vertical stems (about 1.5 cm) starting from the hem line.
The Petals: To create the poppy blossoms, work four small “lazy daisy” loops in red around a central point. Each petal should be plump.
The Centers: In the very center of each red poppy, create a small, textured French knot using the charcoal black yarn. Space the flowers approximately 1 inch apart for 100% accuracy to the meadow theme.
The Black Cardigan and Field Mouse Motif
The cardigan is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in jet black. It features a cropped silhouette and a high-relief mouse embroidery on the left panel (bunny’s right).
Cardigan Body and Sleeves
Using the black yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 40 stitches. We work this piece flat from the top down.
Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the collar.
Row 5 (RS): Knit 6 (front), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k10 (back), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k6 (front).
Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
Continue increasing at the raglan points every RS row until the piece measures 2.5 inches (6 cm).
Separate for Sleeves: Work the front stitches, place sleeve stitches on scrap yarn, work back stitches, place second sleeve stitches on scrap yarn, work the second front. Continue the body for 2 inches (5 cm). Finish with a garter stitch hem and bind off.
Sleeves: Pick up the stitches from the scrap yarn and work in the round for 18 rounds. Finish with a 3-row garter cuff. The cardigan should be worn open as shown.
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Mouse & Acorn Embroidery Detail
On the right chest panel of the black cardigan, use the light grey and medium brown yarns. Embroider a tiny sitting mouse silhouette using a satin stitch. The mouse should have a rounded body and two small ears. In front of the mouse, stitch a small brown acorn using a bullion knot. This detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.
The Red Beret and Mary Jane Shoes
Scarlet Beret Construction
The hat frames the bunny’s face and provides a bold splash of color. Use the scarlet red yarn and 3.25mm needles.
Cast on 46 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-5: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for a firm brim.
Rnd 6: *Kfb, knit 1* repeat around (69 sts). This creates the necessary volume for the “puffy” beret look.
Rnds 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch.
Rnd 21: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
Rnd 22: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around.
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through and fasten off. The beret should slouch slightly to one side when worn between the ears.
Black Mary Janes (Make 2)
These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the jet black 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 loosely.
The Strap: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately. Sew a tiny decorative stitch to the side of the strap. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.
Accessories: Poppy Bag and Miniature Mouse Pet
The Red Poppy Messenger Bag
The bunny carries a small bag shaped like a single giant poppy bloom. Use red and black yarn.
Bag Body: Cast on 10 stitches. Join in round. kfb into every stitch (20). Rnd 2: *K1, kfb* (30). Knit 10 rounds.
Petals: In the final round, *knit 5, turn, p5, turn, k2tog, k1, ssk, bind off* to form 6 separate petal peaks. Sew a large black felt circle or knit a black 1-inch circle for the center of the bag.
Strap: Knit a 12-inch I-cord in red and attach to the sides. Drape it over the bunny’s shoulder.
The Miniature 3D Grey Mouse
This tiny companion sits inside the dress pocket and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic look.
Body: Using grey yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb to 12. Knit 10 rounds. Rnd 11: k2tog around (6). Stuff firmly and close.
Head: Cast on 6 stitches, increase to 8. Knit 3 rounds and close to a point for the nose. Sew two tiny pink felt circles for ears.
Tail: Knit a 2-inch I-cord using 2 stitches. Sew to the rear. Place the mouse inside the white dress pocket so its head and paws peek out.
The Poppy Bouquet Prop
To complete the garden scene, the bunny holds a small bouquet of red poppies wrapped in paper. This is a purely decorative prop that adds narrative depth to the character.
Individual Poppies (Make 5): Knit a 3-inch green I-cord stem. Using scarlet red yarn, knit a tiny ruffled circle (Cast on 20, *kfb* into all, bind off loosely). Sew the red blossom to the green stem. Add a tiny black dot in the center of each flower.
Newspaper Wrap: Cut a small square of printed craft paper or vintage newspaper. Bundle the poppies inside and tie with a single strand of green yarn. Position the bouquet in the bunny’s hand and secure with a small, hidden stitch.
Final Assembly and Facial Expression
The personality of the Red Poppy & Field Mouse Bunny emerges during the final assembly. Follow these steps for a professional finish:
Face Detailing: Use dark brown embroidery thread to stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth centered exactly between the safety eyes. The nose 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 the Bunny: Place the white dress on the bunny first, ensuring the poppy embroidery is centered. Layer the black cardigan over her shoulders. Slip the Mary Jane shoes onto her feet. Position the red beret between her ears, tilting it slightly. Place the tiny grey mouse in the skirt pocket. Secure the poppy messenger bag over her shoulder. Finally, place the poppy bouquet in her right arm. 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, multi-layered clothing, and delicate 3D appliques, proper care is essential to preserve 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 stitches.
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 poppies or the tiny mouse, 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 dress. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant scarlet and black colors. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and cardigan 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 stitch in the black cardigan and every petal on the white 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!
