The Stargazer Lily & Dalmatian Bunny is an exquisite heirloom character that brings the vibrant elegance of a botanical garden together with the playful charm of a classic canine motif. This sophisticated project features a gentle oatmeal-colored rabbit outfitted in a serene pastel pink dress adorned with hand-embroidered lilies, a chic spotted cardigan, and a striking magenta beret. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in the photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino yarn or a high-twist cotton-merino blend that offers superior stitch definition. Many seasoned crafters prefer to purchase professional knitting supplies and specialized yarn kits to ensure the color transitions in the flower petals remain crisp and lifelike. When you order luxury craft materials for this specific design, you are investing in a piece that will be cherished as a masterpiece for many generations. This design offers a rewarding challenge for those looking to buy high-quality needles and transform fine fibers into a storied work of art that captures the essence of spring and companionship.

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

Required Materials and Technical Specifications

Achieving the museum-quality look of the Stargazer Lily & Dalmatian Bunny requires a careful selection of fibers and tools. The character relies on a dense fabric to maintain its sculptural form, so using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer suggests is a professional secret for creating an opaque surface that keeps the internal fiberfill completely concealed. This ensures your work remains durable and maintains its silhouette over years of display.

• Main Body Fiber: Approximately 150 grams of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Heathered Taupe. A natural, slightly textured fiber provides a soft, matte finish that mimics real rabbit fur.
• Dress Yarn: 100 grams of DK weight yarn in a soft Blossom Pink.
• Cardigan & Puppy Base: 75 grams of DK weight yarn in Crisp White or Soft Ivory.
• Beret & Flower Accents: 50 grams of DK weight yarn in a rich Magenta or Deep Fuchsia.
• Secondary Colors for Details:
  • Charcoal Black: 30 grams for the dalmatian spots, shoes, and facial features.
  • Forest Green: 20 grams for the lily stems and leaves.
  • Pale Tan/Cream: 20 grams for the bone-shaped handbag.
  • Soft Yellow: Small scrap for the lily centers and pollen.
• Knitting Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) and US Size 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) and circular needles.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the main bunny; 4mm black beads for the miniature puppy.
• Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approximately 300-350g).
• Notions: A sharp tapestry needle for assembly, fine embroidery needles for the flower petals, stitch markers, and two tiny 4mm decorative buttons for the shoes.

Structural Gauge and Tension Control

Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a high-end heirloom piece. For the bunny’s skin, 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 firm 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. If you find your knitting is naturally loose, consider dropping down half a needle size to maintain the crisp, professional silhouette seen in the inspiration image.

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 needed for its upright standing posture. We work the legs as seamless tubes to avoid bulky side seams that would detract from the professional finish. This bunny is designed with long, slender limbs that look elegant and realistic when posed.

The Right Leg Architecture

Using the oatmeal-colored yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them evenly across your DPNs and join for working in the round, ensuring the stitches are not twisted. Place a marker at the start of the round to track your row counts carefully.

1. Round 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
2. Round 2: *Knit 2, kfb* repeat from * to the end of the round (32 sts).
3. Rounds 3-10: Knit every stitch across the next eight rounds. This builds the rounded base and the vertical sides of the foot. Maintain a firm tension here.
4. Round 11 (Instep Shaping): Knit 12, then perform the decrease (knit 2 together – k2tog) 4 times in succession, and finish by knitting the remaining 12 stitches (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
5. Round 12: Knit 10, perform (k2tog) 4 times again, and finish with 10 knit stitches (24 sts).
6. Round 13: Knit all stitches around the round. This stabilizes the ankle.
7. Rounds 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 to avoid any visible “jog” in the stitches.

Stuff the foot area very firmly, using your fingers to shape a rounded toe and a distinct heel. The leg should be stuffed moderately as you move upward to allow for a natural flexibility at the hip join. Leave these stitches on a holder or spare needle. Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg to create the left leg. After reaching Round 45 on the second leg, do not break the yarn, as this working yarn will be used to initiate the joining process for the torso.

Sculpting the Torso and Rounded Hips

Joining the legs correctly is vital for the bunny’s posture and the width of the hips. Place the legs side-by-side with the toes pointing forward. We will create a bridge of stitches between the legs to give her the wide, rounded hips required for the pastel pink dress to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning over time.

Round 46 (The Joining Round): 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). Join to work in a large circle.

• Rounds 47-65: Knit every stitch in the round for nineteen rounds. This section establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Maintain a firm tension to ensure the fabric is smooth and dense.
• Round 66: Perform a decrease round by knitting *12, k2tog* and repeat around (52 sts).
• Rounds 67-72: Knit all stitches around without further decreases.
• Round 73: *Knit 11, k2tog* and repeat around (48 sts).
• Rounds 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.
• Round 79: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
• Rounds 80-84: Knit all stitches around.
• Round 85: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
• Round 86: Knit all stitches around.
• Round 87: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
• Round 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.

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 magenta beret will be placed on top. The head and body are worked as one piece in this style to eliminate the need for a neck seam.

The Snout and Cheek Construction

1. Round 89: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
2. Round 90: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
3. Round 91: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Round 92: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
5. Round 93: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
6. Rounds 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. Secure the backings firmly. If you prefer, you can use a small amount of dark charcoal yarn to embroider a tiny “eyelash” at the outer corner of each eye before continuing.

Closing the Crown

• Round 116: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
• Round 117: Knit all stitches.
• Round 118: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
• Round 119: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
• Round 120: *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. Continue decreasing until 8 stitches remain, then break the yarn, leave a long tail, thread through the remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and weave in the end securely inside the head.

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Long Drooping Ears and Slender Arms

The ears are a defining feature of this bunny, standing tall at the crown before showing a natural drooping curve. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. The arms are slender to ensure the spotted cardigan sits properly over the shoulders.

Detailed Ears (Make 2)

Using the oatmeal yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Work flat on two needles to create the open structure.

• 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. 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 118, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should hang down naturally on either side of the face, framing the features.

Slender Arm Construction (Make 2)

1. Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round using 2.75mm needles.
2. Rounds 1-40: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
3. Round 41: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
4. Round 42: k2tog around (4 sts).
5. 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 Stargazer Lily Pink Dress

This dress features a classic flared silhouette with detailed floral motifs at the hem. The lilies are the artistic centerpiece of the garment and are added using the intarsia method or detailed duplicate stitch embroidery. We use the Blossom Pink yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.

Knitting the Skirt

1. Cast on 84 stitches in Pink. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean, weighted hem that won’t roll.
3. Rounds 7-28: Continue in stockinette stitch. This forms the main length of the skirt, reaching mid-calf on the rabbit.
4. Round 29 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
5. Round 30: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
6. Round 31: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist snugly to fit the bunny’s torso.
7. Bind off all stitches. Secure the skirt at the bunny’s waist with hidden stitches into the oatmeal body during final assembly.

Lily Embroidery Guide

The lilies are positioned in a row around the entire circumference of the skirt hem. Each flower head is approximately 2cm wide. Use a fine embroidery needle, magenta yarn, and forest green thread.

• The Stems: Using a stem stitch with green yarn, create short vertical stalks rising from the hem.
• The Petals: Use magenta yarn to create 5-6 starburst petals for each lily. At the very center of each petal, add a tiny dot of black charcoal thread to represent the iconic “freckles” of a Stargazer lily.
• The Centers: Add a tiny yellow French knot in the middle of each flower for the pollen centers. Space these motifs approximately 1.5 inches apart around the entire skirt.

The Dalmatian Spotted Cardigan

The cardigan is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in crisp white wool. It features an open front and high-contrast black spots that are added using the duplicate stitch technique for absolute precision.

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

Using the White yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. We work this piece flat from the top down.

1. Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the collar.
2. Row 5 (RS): Knit 6 (front), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k10 (back), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k6 (front). (52 sts).
3. Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
4. Continue increasing at the marker points every RS row until the piece measures 2.5 inches (6 cm).
5. Separate for Sleeves: Place sleeve stitches on scrap yarn. Join the front and back panels to continue the body for 2.5 more inches. Finish with 4 rows of garter stitch and bind off.
6. Sleeves: Pick up the stitches from the scrap yarn and work in the round for 18 rounds. Finish with a 3-row garter cuff.

Spotted Motif Detailing

Using a tapestry needle and the Charcoal Black yarn, add the dalmatian spots. For an authentic look, the spots should be varying sizes and irregularly spaced. Use the duplicate stitch to cover 1, 2, or 3 adjacent knitted stitches. Ensure the spots are distributed evenly across the front panels, back, and sleeves. This detail is essential for a museum-quality finish that captures the viewer’s eye.

The Magenta Beret and Black Mary Janes

The accessories provide the finishing touches to the character’s personality. The beret adds a bold pop of color, while the shoes ground the outfit in a classic doll aesthetic. We use the rich magenta yarn for the hat and charcoal black for the footwear.

Magenta Beret Construction

1. Cast on 46 stitches in Magenta. Join in the round.
2. Rnds 1-5: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for a firm brim.
3. Round 6: *Kfb, knit 1* repeat around (69 sts). This creates the necessary volume for the “puffy” beret look.
4. Rounds 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the height of the hat.
5. Round 21: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
6. Round 22: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around.
7. Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through the remaining stitches and fasten off. Add a tiny 1/2 inch I-cord “stalk” to the center top. Place the beret on her head, allowing it to slouch slightly to one side.

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Black Mary Jane Shoes and White Socks (Make 2)

• Socks: Using white yarn, cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round. Knit 8 rounds and bind off. Slide these onto the bunny’s feet first.
• Shoes: Using the charcoal black yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round. Knit 4 rounds straight for the sides.
• Round 5: Knit 7, (k2tog) 3 times, knit 7 (17 sts) to shape the toe box. Bind off all stitches loosely.
• The Strap: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately to create the functional strap. Sew a tiny 4mm button or bead to the side and slip onto the feet over the white socks.

The Miniature Dalmatian Puppy Companion

This tiny pet perches next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic, sitting pose. It is worked in one piece for the head and body using white yarn, with spots added later.

1. Body: Cast on 6 stitches in the round. kfb into every stitch (12). Knit 12 rounds straight.
2. Head: Increase to 16 stitches. Knit 6 rounds. Decrease to 8 stitches and close. Stuff firmly.
3. Ears: Knit two tiny black triangles (4 sts x 4 rows) and sew to the sides of the head.
4. Tail: Knit a 2-inch white I-cord.
5. Finishing: Use black thread to embroider two tiny dots for the eyes and a small nose. Use the duplicate stitch to add several tiny black spots across the white body. Position the puppy sitting faithfully at the bunny’s feet.

Accessories: Bone Bag and Handheld Bouquet

Beige Bone-Shaped Handbag

This whimsical accessory is a conversation starter. Use the pale tan or cream yarn. The bone is created by knitting two separate “knobs” for each end and joining them to a center tube.

• Knobs (Make 4): Cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb to 12. Knit 2 rounds and bind off. Sew two knobs together to form one end. Repeat for the other end.
• Body: Pick up 10 stitches from the join of the first pair of knobs and knit a 2-inch tube. Sew the second pair of knobs to the other end.
• Handle: Knit a 6-inch I-cord and attach to both ends. Hang the bag over the bunny’s right arm.

Handheld Lily Bouquet

The bunny holds a small cluster of Stargazer lilies in her left arm. These are smaller versions of the dress motifs.

1. Stems: Knit three 3-inch I-cords in forest green.
2. Flowers: Using magenta yarn, create 5 small loops (lazy daisy stitch) around the top of each stem. Add white edges to the petals with a fine needle.
3. Assembly: Tie the three stems together with a scrap of pink yarn and secure the bouquet to the bunny’s left hand with a hidden stitch.

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

The personality of your Stargazer Lily & Dalmatian Bunny emerges during the final assembly. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest. Use dark charcoal 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.

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. Dress the bunny in the pink dress first, then layer the spotted cardigan over the top. Slip the white socks and black shoes onto the feet and position the magenta beret between her ears. Finally, position the bone bag and lily bouquet as described. Check all seams and hide any loose yarn ends deep inside the body stuffing to ensure a professional, clean finish.

Maintenance and Cleaning 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 merino fibers. Regular maintenance will ensure she remains as beautiful as the day you finished her.

Professional 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 specifically for wool or fine fibers. Submerge the bunny slowly, avoiding any aggressive scrubbing or agitation. Do not scrub the embroidered lilies on the dress or the puppy spots, as this can distort the stitches or cause the vibrant colors to bleed. Let the doll soak for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.

Drying and Preservation

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 magenta and blossom pink colors over time. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and cardigan feeling exceptionally soft. Once completely dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing with your fingers to restore her original plump shape. If the lily petals or puppy ears become flattened, gently use a small needle to “fluff” the fibers back into their rounded form. By following these maintenance steps, your Stargazer Lily & Dalmatian Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come.

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