The Marigold Garden Bunny is a breathtaking example of high-definition fiber art, designed for the advanced crafter who finds joy in the intricate marriage of woodland storytelling and sophisticated garment construction. This character features a soulful tan-colored rabbit base, elegantly dressed in a vibrant rust-orange sundress with a delicate scalloped hem, a ruffled orange collar, and puffy white sleeves. To achieve the professional-grade results seen in this design, it is essential to buy premium cotton amigurumi yarn and purchase professional-grade crochet hooks that offer comfort for long crafting sessions. You can easily order high-quality crochet supplies, including high-density polyester fiberfill and 12mm safety eyes, through trusted online platforms like Amazon to ensure your project maintains its heirloom quality. This project is a magnificent investment of your artistic energy, resulting in a timeless piece that radiates pastoral charm and seasonal warmth. Every detail, from the miniature raccoon companion in his tiny apron to the textured acorn-shaped shoulder bag, contributes to a narrative of a peaceful autumn afternoon in a blooming garden.

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

Detailed Material List and Preparation

Creating a piece with this level of complexity requires careful preparation. The proportions of the bunny and the fit of its multi-layered clothing depend on a consistent gauge and the choice of high-quality fibers. Using a hook size slightly smaller than the yarn weight suggests will ensure a dense, sturdy fabric that keeps the internal stuffing completely hidden from view. It is best to select yarns that have a smooth, mercerized finish to make the embroidery and color transitions pop.

• Primary Bunny Yarn: Light Tan or Beige (approx. 150g). A Sport weight or DK weight cotton is recommended for crisp stitch definition.
• The Wardrobe: Rust Orange for the dress (100g), Bright Yellow for the dress scallops (30g), and Pure White for the puffy sleeves (40g).
• Straw Hat and Bag: Warm Sand or Tan yarn (approx. 60g) and Dark Chocolate Brown for the acorn cap.
• Raccoon Companion: Grey, White, and Black yarn (small amounts).
• Gardening Trowel: Light Grey for the blade and Light Brown for the handle.
• Crochet Hooks: A 2.25mm hook for the main figures and miniature accessories to ensure rigid structure; a 2.75mm hook for the clothing to allow for a slightly softer, more natural drape.
• Safety Eyes: 12mm solid black safety eyes for the rabbit; 5mm eyes for the raccoon.
• Stuffing: Premium grade, anti-allergenic polyester fiberfill with high rebound.
• Embroidery Floss: Dark brown for the nose, black for the raccoon mask, and a small amount of green for the garden setting details.
• Notions: Long tapestry needle for limb attachment, sharp embroidery needle, stitch markers, and pink cosmetic blush for the cheeks.
• Hardware: One tiny wooden button for the acorn bag and a thin satin ribbon for the straw hat.

Common Stitch Abbreviations and Tension Guide

The instructions utilize standard United States terminology. Accuracy in stitch placement and maintaining even tension are the foundations for ensuring that the garments fit the bunny’s body perfectly. If your tension tends to be naturally loose, consider moving down half a hook size for the head and limbs to avoid “gaps” in the fabric where stuffing might show. This character is designed to stand with stability or sit gracefully, so firm stuffing in the lower torso and feet is paramount.

• MR: Magic Ring (the foundation for circular work).
• sc: Single crochet.
• inc: Increase (work two single crochets into the same stitch).
• dec: Invisible decrease (work through the front loops only to reduce bulk).
• hdc: Half double crochet.
• dc: Double crochet.
• tr: Treble crochet.
• sl st: Slip stitch.
• ch: Chain stitch.
• BLO: Back loops only (used for adding texture or garment layers).
• FLO: Front loops only.
• st(s): Stitch or stitches.
• BO: Bobble stitch (for the raccoon’s paws or hat texture).

Phase 1: The Sculpted Bunny Head

The head is designed as a large, rounded sphere with subtle tapering toward the muzzle to provide a gentle, curious expression. We work in continuous spirals using the Tan yarn and the 2.25mm hook. It is vital to use a stitch marker at the beginning of each round to maintain an accurate count. Shaping the cheeks correctly is the most important part of the character as it dictates the overall personality.

1. Round 1: Start by creating a MR and placing 6 sc into the ring. (6)
2. Round 2: Work 1 inc in every stitch around the circle to double the count. (12)
3. Round 3: Perform a sequence of *1 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (18)
4. Round 4: Perform a sequence of *2 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (24)
5. Round 5: Perform a sequence of *3 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (30)
6. Round 6: Perform a sequence of *4 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (36)
7. Round 7: Perform a sequence of *5 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (42)
8. Round 8: Perform a sequence of *6 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (48)
9. Round 9: Perform a sequence of *7 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (54)
10. Round 10: Perform a sequence of *8 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (60)
11. Round 11: Perform a sequence of *9 sc, 1 inc* repeated 6 times. (66)
12. Rounds 12-24: Work 1 sc in each of the 66 stitches around. This long section builds the vertical height of the face and creates the placement area for the expressive eyes. (66)
13. Round 25: Perform a sequence of *9 sc, 1 dec* repeated 6 times. (60)
14. Round 26: Perform a sequence of *8 sc, 1 dec* repeated 6 times. (54)
15. Round 27: Perform a sequence of *7 sc, 1 dec* repeated 6 times. (48)
16. Placement: Insert the 12mm safety eyes between rounds 18 and 19, with approximately 12 stitches of space between them. Ensure they are perfectly level.
17. Round 28: Perform a sequence of *6 sc, 1 dec* repeat 6 times. (42)
18. Round 29: Perform a sequence of *5 sc, 1 dec* repeat 6 times. (36)
19. Stuffing: Begin stuffing the head firmly. Focus on pushing the fiberfill toward the sides to define the rounded cheeks seen in the image.
20. Round 30: Perform a sequence of *4 sc, 1 dec* repeat 6 times. (30)
21. Round 31: Perform a sequence of *3 sc, 1 dec* repeat 6 times. (24)
22. Round 32: Perform a sequence of *2 sc, 1 dec* repeat 6 times. (18)
23. Round 33: Perform a sequence of *1 sc, 1 dec* repeat 6 times. (12) Finish stuffing.
24. Round 34: 6 dec to close. (6) Fasten off and leave a long tail. Use a tapestry needle to pull the hole closed securely.

Facial Details and Muzzle Embroidery

To achieve the soulful expression of the rabbit, use a long strand of Tan yarn to perform eye sculpting. Insert the needle at the base of the head, exit near the inner corner of one eye, re-enter a stitch away, and pull back toward the base. Repeat for the other eye. This creates depth in the sockets. For the nose and mouth, use dark brown embroidery thread to embroider a small “Y” shape directly in the center of the face, approximately three rounds below the eyes. Apply pink blush to the cheeks using a soft brush to add a healthy garden glow. Ensure the embroidery is symmetrical to the eyes to maintain the soulful gaze.

Phase 2: Long Floppy Bunny Ears

The ears are a signature feature, requiring a long, flat construction that allows them to hang naturally beside the head. We do not stuff the ears to maintain flexibility. Make two identical pieces using the Tan yarn and the 2.25mm hook.

1. Round 1: Start with a MR and work 6 sc inside. (6)
2. Round 2: Work 1 inc into every stitch around. (12)
3. Round 3: Perform (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (18)
4. Round 4: Perform (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (24)
5. Round 5: Perform (3 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (30)
6. Rounds 6-15: Work 1 sc in each of the 30 stitches around. (30)
7. Round 16: Perform (8 sc, 1 dec) repeat 3 times. (27)
8. Rounds 17-25: sc in each st around. (27)
9. Round 26: Perform (7 sc, 1 dec) repeat 3 times. (24)
10. Rounds 27-35: sc in each st around. (24)
11. Round 36: Perform (6 sc, 1 dec) repeat 3 times. (21)
12. Rounds 37-45: sc in each st around. (21)
13. Round 46: Perform (5 sc, 1 dec) repeat 3 times. (18)
14. Rounds 47-65: sc in each st around. (18) The extra length is vital for the vintage silhouette.
15. Flatten the base of the ear and perform 9 sc through both layers to close the opening. Fasten off and leave a very long tail for sewing to the top of the head at round 6 during assembly.

Phase 3: The Pear-Shaped Torso

The body is shaped to stand stably while providing a solid frame for the heavy tiered clothing and accessories. We work from the neck down to ensure a seamless join. Use Tan yarn and maintain firm tension to prevent the body from sagging under the weight of the dress.

1. Round 1: MR, 6 sc. (6)
2. Round 2: 6 inc. (12)
3. Round 3: (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (18)
4. Round 4: (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (24)
5. Round 5: (3 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (30)
6. Round 6: (4 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (36)
7. Rounds 7-18: sc in each st around. (36)
8. Round 19: (5 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (42)
9. Round 20: (6 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (48)
10. Round 21: (7 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (54)
11. Round 22: (8 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (60)
12. Rounds 23-38: sc in each st around. (60) This builds the wide, stable base.
13. Round 39: (8 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (54)
14. Round 40: (7 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (48)
15. Round 41: (6 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (42)
16. Round 42: (5 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (36) Stuff the lower torso very firmly.
17. Round 43: (4 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (30)
18. Round 44: (3 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (24)
19. Round 45: 12 dec to close. (12) Fasten off, leaving a tail for assembly.

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Phase 4: Slender Bunny Arms and Legs

The limbs of the bunny are long and slender. Use Tan yarn for all four components. Stuff the hands and feet firmly, but leave the upper halves slightly softer to allow for natural movement against the garments.

Slender Arms (Make 2)

1. Round 1: MR, 6 sc. (6)
2. Round 2: (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat 3 times. (9)
3. Round 3: (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat 3 times. (12)
4. Rounds 4-30: sc in each stitch around. (12)
5. Flatten the top and work 6 sc across both layers to close. Sew to the sides of the torso at Round 6 of the body.

Stable Legs (Make 2)

1. Round 1: MR, 6 sc. (6)
2. Round 2: 6 inc. (12)
3. Round 3: (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (18)
4. Round 4: (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (24)
5. Rounds 5-35: sc in each stitch around. (24)
6. Stuff the feet very firmly. Flatten the top and work 12 sc across to close. Sew to the bottom sides of the torso so the bunny stands with stability.

Phase 5: The Wardrobe – Puffy White Sleeves

The bunny wears a white under-shirt that provides the puffy sleeves seen in the inspiration image. Use the White yarn and a 2.75mm hook.

1. Round 1: Ch 15, join in a ring. (15)
2. Round 2: inc in each stitch around to create volume. (30)
3. Rounds 3-10: sc in each st around. (30)
4. Round 11: dec around until you reach 15 sts. (15)
5. Round 12: Work a round of sl st to finish the cuff. Fasten off. Slide these onto the arms and secure them at the shoulder join during assembly.

Phase 6: The Rust Marigold Dress

The dress is the centerpiece, featuring a vibrant rust orange color and a tiered scalloped hem. Use the Rust yarn and the 2.75mm hook. The dress is worked from the waist down.

Dress Bodice

1. Row 1: Ch 31. Starting in the 2nd ch from hook, work 30 sc. Ch 1, turn.
2. Rows 2-10: Work sc 30 across to build the bodice height.
3. Straps: Ch 15 for each strap and secure to the back of the waistband.

Scalloped Skirt

1. Join Rust yarn to the bottom of the bodice.
2. Round 1: *sc 1, inc* repeat around. (approx 45 sts)
3. Round 2-15: sc in each st around.
4. The Scalloped Hem: Switch to Yellow yarn. Work in the FLO. *(sc 1, skip 1, 5 dc in next st, skip 1)* repeat around to create the petal-like edge.
5. Second Tier: Attach Rust yarn to the BLO of Round 14. Work 5 rounds of sc. On the final round, repeat the Yellow scalloped hem pattern. This creates the layered effect seen in the photo.

Phase 7: The Ruffled Orange Collar

This accessory adds a vintage cottagecore touch. Use the Orange yarn.

1. Row 1: Ch 25. (25)
2. Row 2: Work 3 dc into each chain across to create extreme ruffling. (75)
3. Row 3: Work (sl st, ch 2) in each stitch across for a delicate finish. Fasten off and tie around the bunny’s neck.

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Phase 8: Straw Cloche Hat and Acorn Bag

Straw Cloche Hat

Use the Tan yarn to mimic straw. This hat sits at an angle and features a wide brim. Use the 2.75mm hook.

1. Round 1: 6 sc in a MR. (6)
2. Round 2: 6 inc. (12)
3. Round 3-10: Gradually increase until you reach 48 sts.
4. Rounds 11-15: sc around. (48)
5. Brim Round: In the FLO, inc in every 3rd stitch. (64)
6. Round 16-17: sc around. Fasten off. Wrap a thin tan ribbon around the base and tie a small bow.

Acorn Shoulder Bag

This functional accessory holds the bunny’s garden tools. Use Tan and Dark Brown yarn.

1. Bag Body: Using Tan, MR 6 sc. (R2) 12 sc. (R3) 18 sc. (R4-R12) 18 sc. Fasten off.
2. Acorn Cap: Using Dark Brown, MR 6 sc. (R2) 12 sc. (R3) 18 sc. (R4-R5) 18 sc. Work one round of crab stitch (reverse sc) for texture. Sew to the top of the tan body.
3. Strap: Ch 50 in tan. Attach to the sides of the acorn.

Phase 9: Miniature Raccoon Companion

This tiny pet reaches for the bunny’s dress and features a classic striped tail and a miniature apron. Use Grey, White, and Black yarn with the 2.25mm hook.

1. Body & Head: Work as one piece in Grey. MR, 6 sc. (R2) 12 sc. (R3) 18 sc. (R4-R10) 18 sc. (R11) dec around. Stuff and close.
2. Face Mask: Using Black thread, embroider two teardrop shapes around the 5mm eyes. Add a white muzzle.
3. Tail: Ch 10. Alternate Grey and Black rows for 8 rows. Fold and sew.
4. Miniature Apron: In Cream, ch 8. Work 4 rows of sc. Add ties and tie around the raccoon’s waist.

Phase 10: Garden Trowel and Mary Jane Shoes

Gardening Trowel

1. Blade: In Light Grey, ch 6. Work 4 rows of sc, decreasing at the tip.
2. Handle: In Light Brown, MR 6 sc. Work 5 rounds of 6 sc. Sew to the blade.

Brown Buckle Shoes

Make two shoes using Dark Brown yarn.

1. Round 1: Ch 7. Start in 2nd ch: 5 sc, 3 sc in last ch. Turn: 4 sc, inc. (14)
2. Round 2: inc, 4 sc, 3 inc, 4 sc, 2 inc. (20)
3. Round 3: BLO sc around. (20)
4. Round 4: sc around. (20)
5. Strap: ch 8 from one side to the other. Fasten off.

Final Assembly and Sculpting Mastery

Assembling the components with precision is what gives the bunny its lifelike quality. Follow these final steps to bring your Marigold Garden Bunny to life. Consistency in the alignment of the head and ears is the most important factor in capturing the character’s personality.

• Joining the Body: Sew the head firmly to the torso opening. Ensure the neck is stuffed very firmly so the head does not wobble under the weight of the floppy ears and straw hat.
• Ear Placement: Pin the long ears to Round 6 of the head. Check from the front to ensure they are symmetrical before sewing them securely. They should hang straight down behind the bunny’s shoulders.
• Dressing: Slide the white puffy sleeves onto the arms. Put the rust orange dress on first, ensuring the straps sit neatly on the shoulders. Tie the ruffled orange collar around the neck.
• Styling: Place the cloche hat on the head, pulling it slightly forward for a jaunty look. Put the brown shoes on the feet.
• Final Touches: Position the acorn bag strap over one shoulder. Place the gardening trowel in her right hand, using a small hidden stitch to keep it in place.
• Companion Placement: Position the miniature raccoon companion next to her left foot.
• Finishing Polish: Inspect your work for any loose yarn tails. Use your needle to pull any ends deep into the stuffing. Re-apply the cheek blush if it has faded during assembly.

Your Marigold Garden Bunny is now complete! This character serves as a stunning tribute to traditional handcraft and garden aesthetics. Store your finished doll in a dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrancy of the orange and yellow hues. We hope you enjoyed the meticulous process of building this character and that she brings a touch of autumn magic to your home.

Would you like to learn how to add a small lace edge to the raccoon’s apron, or perhaps receive guidance on creating a matching miniature wheelbarrow for your bunny?

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