The Winter Hellebore & Barn Owl Bunny is an exquisite, multi-layered knitting project designed for those who appreciate the intersection of nature-inspired art and fine craftsmanship. This character captures the serene beauty of a woodland winter, featuring a gentle oatmeal-colored rabbit dressed in a rich burgundy Fair Isle skirt and a cozy cream cardigan with hidden owl surprises. To achieve the professional, heirloom-quality finish seen in the image, it is essential to buy premium merino wool that provides crisp stitch definition for the intricate floral patterns. Many artisans prefer to purchase high-quality knitting needles and specialized yarn kits to ensure the color palette remains harmonious and the textures are soft to the touch. When you order luxury craft supplies for this design, you are investing in a piece that will be cherished as a masterpiece for generations. This project offers a rewarding challenge for intermediate and advanced knitters alike, focusing on sculptural shaping, stranded colorwork, and delicate embroidery.

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 Tools

Selecting the right materials is the first step toward creating a doll that looks 100% like the professional version. For this bunny, the weight of the yarn and the density of the stitches are vital for maintaining the structural integrity of the standing figure.

• Main Body Yarn: 100g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Light Taupe. Natural fibers are best for a matte, soft finish.
• Clothing Yarn:
  • Cream/Ivory: 50g (Sweater and shoe base).
  • Deep Burgundy/Maroon: 50g (Skirt and shoe trim).
  • Medium Brown: 30g (Hat and messenger bag).
  • Cool Grey: 20g (Miniature owl and pocket appliques).
• Accents & Embroidery:
  • Small amounts of White and Soft Blue (Hellebore flowers on skirt).
  • Bright Red (Holly berries).
  • Forest Green (Leaves and stems).
  • Dark Brown (Nose and facial details).
• Knitting Needles: US Size 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) and circular needles for the magic loop method. Using a slightly smaller needle than recommended for the yarn weight ensures the fiberfill stays hidden.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny.
• Stuffing: High-grade polyester fiberfill (approx. 250g).
• Notions: Tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and two tiny cream buttons for the cardigan.

Standard Abbreviations

• k: knit
• p: purl
• sts: stitches
• rnd: round
• 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)
• st-st: stockinette stitch
• RS / WS: Right side / Wrong side
• I-cord: a narrow tube of knitting worked on two needles

The Foundation: Knitting the Bunny Legs

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 winter wardrobe. We work the legs as seamless tubes for a professional, clean finish.

Right Leg Construction

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

Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 3-9: Knit all stitches. This builds the rounded volume of the foot.
Rnd 10: k12, (k2tog) 4 times, k12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
Rnd 11: k10, (k2tog) 4 times, k10 (24 sts).
Rnd 12: Knit all stitches.
Rnds 13-42: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 5 inches (13 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.

Left Leg Construction

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

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 winter skirt 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 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 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. 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 73: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 74-78: Knit all stitches.
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 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 characteristic of this heritage design. This part must be stuffed very firmly to maintain its shape over time.

The Snout and Face

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 level and aligned with the center of the feet for a balanced, thoughtful gaze.

Closing the Crown

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 at this point. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead. Use small amounts of stuffing at a time to avoid lumps.
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, leaving a tail. Thread the tail through the remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and weave in the end securely inside the head.

Long Floppy Ears and Slender Arms

Detailed Ears (Make 2)

The ears are long and stand tall with a slight natural floppy curve. They are worked flat and then sewn to the crown. Use the oatmeal 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. 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 110, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright but have the flexibility to flop naturally backward as shown.

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 berry branch. Join oatmeal yarn in the round on DPNs.

Cast on 10 stitches.
Rnds 1-38: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge.
Rnd 39: *k3, k2tog* (8 sts).
Rnd 40: k2tog around (4 sts). Break yarn and pull through. Stuff the hand (lower) area firmly and the upper arm very lightly. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck line at Round 82.

The Burgundy Winter Hellebore Skirt

The skirt is a flared A-line silhouette featuring a complex Fair Isle pattern at the hem. This section requires careful color management to ensure the white hellebores and blue accents pop against the deep burgundy base.

Knitting the Skirt

Using Burgundy yarn and 3.25mm circular needles, cast on 84 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-4: Knit all stitches for a rolled hem.
Rnds 5-10: Continue in stockinette stitch (Burgundy).
Rnds 11-18: Fair Isle Chart. Work the following sequence:
– *k3 Burgundy, k1 White* around.
– *k2 Burgundy, k3 White* around.
– *k1 Burgundy, k2 White, k1 Blue, k2 White* around.
– *k2 Burgundy, k3 White* around.
– *k3 Burgundy, k1 White* around.
Rnds 19-30: Continue in Burgundy stockinette. The skirt should fall just above the bunny’s ankles.
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).
Bind off all stitches loosely. Place the skirt on the bunny and secure it at the waistline with hidden stitches.

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The Cream Cardigan with Owl Pockets

The cardigan is worked flat and features short sleeves and two functional pockets on the front. Inside these pockets, tiny grey owls will be peeking out.

Cardigan Body

Using Cream yarn, cast on 44 stitches. Work flat.
Rows 1-4: *k1, p1* 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 (Front), bind off 4 sts, work 16 sts (Back), bind off 4 sts, work 10 sts (Front).
Work each section for 12 rows, then bind off and sew shoulder seams.
Sleeves: Pick up 16 stitches around the armhole opening and knit for 15 rows in stockinette. Finish with 3 rows of ribbing.

The Owl Pocket Appliques

Knit two small squares (8 sts x 8 rows) in Cream and sew them to the front of the cardigan. Before sewing the tops, knit two tiny Grey owl heads (Cast on 6 sts, kfb to 12 sts, knit 4 rows, decrease to close). Use white thread to embroider large circles for the eyes and a yellow stitch for the beak. Sew the owl heads so they appear to be peeking out from the tops of the pockets.

Winter Wood Accessories: Hat and Bag

The Brown Horned Hat

This hat frames the face and provides a perch for the tiny owl pet. It features two pointed “horns” or ear tufts at the corners.
Using Brown yarn, cast on 48 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-4: *k1, p1* ribbing.
Rnds 5-25: Knit all stitches in stockinette.
Bind off. Flatten the hat and sew the top edge closed. At the two top corners, pinch the fabric and wrap a strand of brown yarn tightly around the base of the corners to create the pointed “ear” effect.

The Pinecone Messenger Bag

The bunny carries a small bag that mimics the texture of a pinecone. Use the Brown yarn.
Bag Body: Cast on 12 stitches. Work in a “crocodile stitch” or “raspberry stitch” for 24 rows to create a bumpy, scaled texture. Fold the piece and sew the side seams. Create a 12-inch I-cord for the strap and sew to the sides of the bag. Drape the bag across the bunny’s shoulder.

The Miniature Barn Owl Companion

This tiny pet perches on top of the bunny’s hat between the tufts. It requires very careful color changes to capture the iconic white heart-shaped face of a Barn Owl.

Body: Using Grey yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2-10: Knit. Rnd 11: *k1, k2tog* (8). Stuff firmly. Rnd 12: k2tog around. Close.
Face: Using White yarn, knit a small heart-shaped piece (Cast on 3, kfb into first and last st, knit 2 rows, bind off). Sew this to the front of the grey head. Use black thread for tiny eyes and yellow for a small beak. Position the owl on top of the hat and secure with hidden stitches.

Finishing Details: Shoes and Holly Branch

Two-Tone Mary Janes (Make 2)

These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. They feature a cream base with burgundy trim.
Using Cream yarn, cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-4: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe.
Rnd 6: Join Burgundy yarn. Bind off all stitches loosely. For the strap, pick up 10 stitches in Burgundy from one side of the shoe opening and bind off immediately. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.

The Holly Berry Branch

This accessory is held in the bunny’s arm to complete the winter theme.
Branch: Using Brown yarn, cast on 3 stitches and work a 5-inch I-cord.
Berries: Use red yarn to knit three tiny bobbles (Cast on 4, k2tog across, pull tight).
Leaves: Using Green yarn, cast on 3 stitches. Row 1: kfb, k1, kfb (5). Row 2-4: Knit. Row 5: k2tog, k1, ssk. Bind off. Sew the berries and leaves to the top of the brown I-cord branch.

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

The personality of the Winter Hellebore & Barn Owl Bunny emerges during the final sewing stage. Ensure all parts are aligned perfectly with the reference image.

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 burgundy skirt on the bunny first, followed by the cream cardigan. Secure the buttons. Slip the Mary Jane shoes onto the feet. Position the horned hat on her head and secure the grey owl pet on top. Drape the pinecone messenger bag diagonally across her chest and place the holly branch in her right arm. 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 Fair Isle colorwork, 3D appliques, and delicate embroidery, proper care is essential to preserve 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 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 hellebore flowers or the owl appliques, as this can distort the stitches or cause the grey owls to lose their shape. 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 skirt. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant burgundy and green 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.

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 holly berries or owl tufts become flattened, gently use a small knitting needle to “fluff” the fibers back into their rounded shape. By following these maintenance steps, your Winter Hellebore & Barn Owl 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 burgundy skirt and every hidden owl in the pockets 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 winter-inspired rabbit to life!

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