The Wild Rose Bunny – Knitting

The Wild Rose Bunny is a breathtaking example of high-end amigurumi art, blending the soft textures of fine-gauge knitting with the intricate precision of 3D floral design. This heirloom character features a gentle oatmeal-toned bunny dressed in a striking deep violet dress, meticulously adorned with a garden of raised pink roses at the hem. Her look is completed with a delicate rose-pink cardigan featuring hand-embroidered hummingbirds and a matching floral beret. To achieve the professional, museum-quality finish seen in the photographs, it is essential to buy premium extra-fine merino wool or high-twist organic cotton blends, as these fibers provide the necessary stitch definition for the detailed petals. When you purchase specific yarns for this project, you ensure that the finished work maintains its structural integrity and soft, tactile appeal for years of display. This project is a rewarding journey for any artisan looking to order luxury craft supplies and transform them into a storied masterpiece that captures the vibrant essence of a wild summer garden.




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

Project Requirements and Materials

Selecting the correct textures is the foundation of creating a character that looks 100% like the artisan version. For this design, a DK weight (8-ply) yarn is recommended to balance structural durability with the delicate nature of the multi-layered clothing. Natural fibers are preferred for their classic appearance and longevity.

  • Main Bunny Body: Approximately 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Light Beige. A wool-cotton blend provides a matte, soft finish that hides the stuffing effectively.
  • Wardrobe Colors:
    • Deep Violet or Plum: 75g for the flared dress and beret base.
    • Rose Pink: 50g for the cardigan and flower petals.
    • Magenta: 25g for the darker rose accents and shoes.
    • Leaf Green: 20g for the embroidered vines and stems.
    • Light Teal and Purple: Small scraps for the hummingbird embroidery.
  • Needles: US Size 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the bunny body and US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needles for the larger clothing pieces.
  • Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the main bunny; 4mm beads for the hummingbird pet.
  • Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 250g-300g).
  • Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and two tiny 4mm pink buttons for the shoes.
  • Prop Accessory: A small grey spray bottle (knitting instructions included).

Structural Gauge and Technical Abbreviations

Maintaining a firm gauge is vital for amigurumi-style characters. If the stitches are too loose, the fiberfill will peek through, detracting from the artisan look. For the bunny body, aim for a density where the fabric feels solid and opaque. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form, so checking the fit frequently as you progress through the garment sections is highly recommended.

  • k: knit
  • p: purl
  • sts: stitches
  • rnd(s): round(s)
  • st-st: stockinette stitch
  • kfb: knit into the front and back of the stitch (increase)
  • m1: make one stitch (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

Constructing the Bunny Foundation: Legs and Torso

The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward to ensure the bunny has the stability to support the heavy knitted layers of her wardrobe. We work the legs as seamless tubes for a professional finish.

The Right Leg

Using the oatmeal-colored yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across three needles and join for working in the round. Place a marker at the start of the round.

Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
Rnd 3-10: Knit every stitch. This builds the rounded base and volume of the foot.
Rnd 11: k12, (k2tog) 4 times, k12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
Rnd 12: k10, (k2tog) 4 times, k10 (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). Maintain a consistent tension to ensure the skin is smooth. 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 purple dress 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: *k12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 64-68: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 69: *k11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 70-74: Knit all stitches. 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: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 76-80: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 81: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 82: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 83: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 84: *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 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 purple beret will add significant weight to the crown.

The Snout and Face

Rnd 85: *k2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 86: *k3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 87: *k4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 88: *k5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 89: *k6, 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, slightly elongated dome.
Position the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 100 and 101, 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 111: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 112: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 113: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 114: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 115: *k3, 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 116: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 117: *k1, 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 long and stand strictly upright with a slight natural floppy curve at the mid-point. 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.
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, 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 them to the top of the head at Round 114, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright but have the flexibility to frame the 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 accessories. Join oatmeal yarn in the round on 2.75mm needles.

  1. Cast on 10 stitches.
  2. Rnds 1-40: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
  3. Rnd 41: *k3, k2tog* repeat (8 sts).
  4. Rnd 42: 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 84.

The Wild Rose Deep Violet Dress

This dress is the artistic centerpiece of the character. It features a flared A-line silhouette with a simple rolled hem and hand-knitted 3D roses clustered along the bottom edge. We use the deep violet yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.

Knitting the Skirt

Cast on 84 stitches in Deep Violet. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean hem that won’t roll excessively.
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): *k8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 32: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 33: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 34-45: Knit all stitches for the bodice section. 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. Slip the dress onto the bunny before moving to the floral application.

3D Wild Rose Petals (Make 20-30 buds)

The roses are created by knitting long, narrow strips that are rolled and stitched into buds. Use the rose pink and magenta yarns.
Cast on 4 stitches. Row 1-10: Knit every row. Row 11: kfb, k2, kfb (6 sts). Row 12: Knit. Row 13: kfb into every stitch (12 sts). Bind off loosely.
Assembly: Starting with the narrow 4-stitch end, roll the strip tightly to form a spiral rosebud. Stitch through the base of the roll to secure. Sew these flower buds in a thick, dense row around the bottom 2 inches of the violet skirt. Using the leaf green yarn, embroider small “lazy daisy” leaves between the roses to create a lush, vine-like effect.

The Rose Pink Hummingbird Cardigan

The cardigan is a standout piece worked flat with specific garter stitch borders. The hummingbird motifs are added to the chest panels after assembly to give it a whimsical touch. Use the rose pink yarn and 3.25mm straight needles.

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

  1. Cast on 36 stitches. We work this flat.
  2. Rows 1-4: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch border).
  3. Row 5 (RS): k3, m1, k to last 3 sts, m1, k3 (38 sts).
  4. Row 6 (WS): k3, p to last 3 sts, k3.
  5. Rows 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch, keeping the first and last 3 stitches in garter stitch for the front plackets.
  6. 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 these sections separately for 10 rows, then bind off and sew the shoulder seams.
  7. Sleeves: Pick up 16 stitches around the armhole opening and knit for 12 rows in stockinette. Finish with 3 rows of garter stitch and bind off loosely.

Hummingbird Embroidery Detail

On each front panel of the cardigan, use teal, purple, and green embroidery thread to create a tiny hovering bird. Start with a small teal oval for the body and add thin, fanned-out stitches for wings. Use a single black straight stitch for the long, needle-like beak. This small detail is essential for a 100% accurate character match. The hummingbirds should be angled as if they are flying toward the roses on the dress.

The Floral Beret and Mary Jane Shoes

Beret Construction

The hat frames the bunny’s face and coordinates with the violet dress. Use the deep violet yarn and 3.25mm needles.

Cast on 46 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-4: *k1, p1* ribbing for a firm brim.
Rnd 5: *kfb, k1* repeat around (69 sts). This creates the necessary volume for the “puffy” beret look.
Rnds 6-20: Continue in stockinette stitch.
Rnd 21: *k6, k2tog* repeat around.
Rnd 22: *k5, k2tog* repeat around.
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through and fasten off.
Large Side Rose: Knit an extra-large version of the rose (Cast on 10 sts, roll into a full blossom) and sew it firmly to the right side of the beret. Add two green embroidered leaves.




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Magenta Mary Janes (Make 2)

These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the magenta yarn and 3.0mm needles.

  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 loosely.
  5. The Strap: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately. Sew the small pink button to the side of the strap for a functional look. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.

Accessories: Messenger Bag and 3D Hummingbird

Miniature Pink Messenger Bag

The bunny carries a small bag to store her garden treasures. Use the rose pink yarn.
Bag Body: Cast on 12 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 32 rows. This creates a long rectangle. Fold the bottom 12 rows up to form a pocket and sew the side seams. Fold the remaining part down as a flap. Sew a tiny button to the center.
The Strap: Knit a 12-inch I-cord and sew to the sides of the bag. Drape it diagonally across the bunny’s chest over the cardigan.

3D Miniature Hummingbird Companion

This tiny pet perches on the bunny’s hand or arm. It requires very careful color changes to capture the iconic iridescent plumage.
Body: Using teal yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2-8: Knit. Rnd 9: k2tog (6). Stuff firmly and close.
Wings: Knit two tiny triangles (Cast on 3, kfb, bind off) in purple and sew to the sides. Use black thread for eyes and a stiffened piece of black yarn for the long beak. Position the bird on the bunny’s left arm and secure with a few hidden stitches.

The Grey Garden Spray Bottle Prop

To complete the garden scene, the bunny holds a small spray bottle. Use a scrap of grey yarn.
Bottle Base: Cast on 10 stitches. Join in round and knit 12 rounds. Rnd 13: k2tog around (5). Stuff firmly.
Spray Head: Knit 3 rounds and bind off. Sew a small T-shaped I-cord (2 stitches, 4 rows) to the top to mimic the trigger. Place this in the bunny’s right hand.

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

Proper assembly is what transforms knitted pieces into a character with a soul. Follow these steps for a professional finish:

Face Detail: 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 small and positioned low 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 perfectly.

Dressing the Bunny: Place the violet dress on the bunny first, ensuring the 3D rose border is aligned with the center of the body. Layer the rose pink cardigan over her shoulders and ensure the embroidered birds are visible. Secure the magenta shoes on her feet. Position the beret on her head and tie the messenger bag over her shoulder. Finally, secure the hummingbird on her arm and place the spray bottle in her hand. Check all seams and hide any loose yarn ends inside the body stuffing to ensure a clean finish.

Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines

Because this project features intricate 3D appliques, fine embroidery, and multiple layers of delicate wool, proper care is essential to preserve its heirloom quality. This bunny is intended as an art doll rather than a play toy, and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the stitches.

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 3D roses or the hummingbird embroidery, as this can distort the stitches or cause the petals to lose their shape. Let the doll soak for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.

Drying: 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 violet and magenta 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 fluff the 3D rosebuds with your fingers to restore their rounded shape.

Storage: 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. By following these maintenance steps, your Wild Rose 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 rose-pink cardigan and every rolled petal on the violet 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!

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