The Autumn Maple & Moose Bunny is a sophisticated artisanal creation that perfectly captures the cozy essence of a northern forest during the peak of the fall season. This heirloom-quality design features a gentle cocoa-brown bunny dressed in a vibrant mustard-yellow and burnt-orange skirt adorned with hand-embroidered maple leaves, a textured brown vest with a detailed moose motif, and a complex plaid explorer hat. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in the inspiration photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or high-twist natural fibers that provide exceptional stitch definition for the intricate surface details. Many seasoned crafters prefer to purchase professional knitting supplies and order artisan yarn kits to ensure the autumnal color palette remains rich and authentic. When you shop for luxury knitting needles and buy high-quality craft materials, the sculptural elements of the miniature moose companion and the delicate syrup bottle accessory remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for any fiber artist looking to purchase high-end yarn supplies and transform fine fibers into a storied work of art that celebrates the spirit of adventure and the timeless beauty of nature.

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

To ensure your finished character mirrors the professional aesthetic of the reference image, selecting the correct fiber weights and high-quality notions is the most critical stage of the project. This design is optimized for DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn, which provides the necessary structural integrity for the bunny’s standing pose while allowing for fine detail in the multi-layered wardrobe. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer suggests is a professional secret for creating a dense, opaque fabric that keeps the internal fiberfill completely concealed, ensuring the bunny maintains its shape over decades of display.

• Main Bunny Body: Approximately 150 grams of DK weight wool in Cocoa Brown or Cedar. A natural, high-quality wool blend provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of boutique art dolls.
• Mustard & Orange Skirt: 50 grams of Mustard Yellow and 30 grams of Burnt Orange DK yarn.
• Moose Vest: 50 grams of Dark Chocolate or Espresso Brown yarn.
• Plaid Hat: 20 grams each of Burnt Orange, Forest Green, Slate Grey, and Black for the tartan pattern.
• Boots and Socks: 25 grams of Beige or Sand yarn, with a small amount of White for the sock trim.
• Embroidery and Companion Palette:
  • Rust Red and Deep Orange for the maple leaf embroidery.
  • Light Tan or Camel for the moose antlers and backpack.
  • Charcoal Black for facial features and boot soles.
  • Amber Orange for the maple syrup bottle body.
• Needle Sizes: US Size 2 (2.75mm) for the bunny body and limbs to ensure a tight, durable gauge; US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular or straight needles for the clothing components.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the main bunny; 4mm black beads for the miniature moose companion.
• Internal Foundation: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 350 grams).
• Notions: A sharp tapestry needle for assembly, fine embroidery needles for the leaf details, stitch markers, and four tiny 4mm brown buttons for the vest and boots.

Structural Gauge and Tension Control

Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a museum-quality piece. For the bunny 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 solid and have very little stretch. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the vest and skirt against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended to ensure the proportions match the reference image perfectly.

If you find your knitting is naturally loose, consider dropping down half a needle size to maintain the crisp silhouette of the character. Maintain an even gauge throughout, especially when transitioning between the body and the clothing items. The standing stability of the bunny depends on a firm, dense fabric that resists stretching once stuffed with the fiberfill foundation. Avoid using bulky yarns, as they will obscure the delicate maple leaf embroidery on the skirt.

Foundation: Constructing the Standing Legs

The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward to ensure the bunny has the stability 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 cocoa-brown yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them evenly 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 to track your progression through the row counts.

1. Round 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
2. Round 2: Perform a sequence of *Knit 2, kfb* and 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 join.
7. Rounds 14-50: Continue in stockinette stitch (knit every round) until the leg measures roughly 6 inches (15 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 50 on the second leg, do not break the yarn, as this working yarn will be used to initiate the joining process for the torso in the next section.

Sculpting the Plump 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 flared skirt to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning or sagging over time.

Round 51 (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 52-70: 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 71: Perform a decrease round by knitting *12, k2tog* and repeat around (52 sts).
• Rounds 72-76: Knit all stitches around without further decreases.
• Round 77: *Knit 11, k2tog* and repeat around (48 sts).
• Rounds 78-82: 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 83: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
• Rounds 84-88: Knit all stitches around.
• Round 89: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
• Round 90: Knit all stitches around.
• Round 91: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
• Round 92: *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.

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 heirloom design. This part must be stuffed very firmly to maintain its shape over time, especially since the heavy plaid hat 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 Face Construction

1. Round 93: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
2. Round 94: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
3. Round 95: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Round 96: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
5. Round 97: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts). Establish this as the widest part of the face.
6. Rounds 98-118: Knit every stitch in stockinette straight for twenty-one rounds. 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 108 and 109, 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 before proceeding with the closing rounds.

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Closing the Crown

• Round 119: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
• Round 120: Knit all stitches. This round stabilizes the decrease.
• Round 121: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
• Round 122: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
• Round 123: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
• Round 124: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
• Round 125: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
• Round 126: k2tog around until 8 stitches remain.

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. 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.

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 cocoa yarn and the 3.0mm needles to allow for a slightly softer fabric than the body.

1. Cast on 12 stitches. Work flat on two needles.
2. Rows 1-45: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long, elegant rectangle.
3. Row 46: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, slip-slip-knit (ssk) (10 sts).
4. Row 47: Purl all stitches.
5. Row 48: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
6. Row 49: Purl all stitches.
7. Row 50: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (6 sts).
8. 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 122, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright with a natural, alert posture.

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 syrup bottle. Join cocoa yarn in the round on the smaller 2.75mm needles.

1. Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-42: Knit all stitches in stockinette for forty-two rounds. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
3. Round 43: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
4. Round 44: k2tog around (4 sts).
5. Break the yarn and pull through the remaining stitches. 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 92.

The Mustard Maple Skirt

This skirt features a classic A-line silhouette with a gradient color transition and hand-embroidered maple leaf motifs. The embroidery is the artistic centerpiece of the garment and is added after the base knitting is complete. We use the Mustard and Burnt Orange yarn with 3.25mm circular needles.

Knitting the Skirt Base

1. Cast on 84 stitches in Burnt Orange. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-6: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch or simple stockinette for a clean hem).
3. Rounds 7-12: Continue in Burnt Orange.
4. Round 13: Switch to Mustard Yellow yarn. Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt, reaching mid-calf on the rabbit.
5. Round 36 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
6. Round 37: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
7. Round 38: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist snugly to fit the bunny’s torso.
8. Bind off all stitches loosely. Secure the skirt at the bunny’s waist with hidden stitches into the body.

Maple Leaf Embroidery Guide

The maple leaves are positioned in a row around the entire circumference of the skirt hem, sitting mainly on the Mustard section. Each leaf is approximately 2.5 cm wide. Use a fine embroidery needle and Rust Red wool.

• The Outline: Use a split stitch to create the five-pointed star shape of the maple leaf.
• The Filling: Use a satin stitch or long-and-short stitch to fill the leaf points. This provides the high-definition texture seen in the photo.
• The Veins: Add a single long stitch in the center of each leaf point using a slightly darker brown thread to create depth. Space these motifs approximately 1.5 inches apart around the entire skirt hem.

The Dark Brown Moose Vest

The vest is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in rich chocolate-brown wool. It features a cropped silhouette and a high-relief moose embroidery on the center chest. This piece adds a functional, explorer-themed layer to the outfit.

Vest Construction

1. Using Dark Brown yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 40 stitches. We work this piece flat.
2. Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the bottom border.
3. Rows 5-15: Continue in stockinette stitch. Shape the armholes by binding off 3 stitches at the start of the next two rows.
4. Work the back and two front panels separately for 12 more rows.
5. Bind off and sew the shoulder seams. The vest should remain open at the front, but fit snugly around the bunny’s arms.

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Moose Motif Embroidery

On the center of the vest, use the Dark Brown and Light Tan yarns. Embroider a silhouette of a moose head using a satin stitch for the main face. Use the tan yarn to create the broad, palmate antlers. Add two tiny charcoal black stitches for the eyes and nose. This level of detail is essential for a 100% accurate match to the forest theme.

The Plaid Explorer Hat and Boots

The accessories provide the finishing touches to the character’s personality. The plaid hat frames the face with a warm, rustic aesthetic, while the boots ground the outfit in a practical adventure style. We use a Fair Isle technique for the hat and tan wool for the footwear.

Tartan Plaid Hat Construction

1. Cast on 48 stitches in Slate Grey. Join in the round using 3.25mm needles.
2. Rounds 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing.
3. Rounds 5-18: Follow a Fair Isle chart to create the plaid grid. Alternate 2 stitches of Burnt Orange and 2 stitches of Forest Green, separated by a single stitch of Black every 4th round.
4. Round 19: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around in Grey.
5. Continue decreasing Grey rounds until 6 stitches remain. pull through and fasten off.
6. Earflaps: Pick up 10 stitches on each side of the hat and knit in Grey for 8 rows, decreasing at the edges to form a point. Add a large, fluffy brown pom-pom to the center top.

Tan Explorer Boots (Make 2)

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

1. Cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rnd 1-2: Knit in Charcoal Black (this forms the sole edge).
3. Rnd 3-8: Knit in Tan. This forms the side of the boot.
4. Round 9: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
5. Round 10: Bind off 17 stitches loosely. Use a scrap of brown yarn to embroider “laces” in an X-pattern on the front. Add a tiny white trim at the top to represent socks.

Accessories: Syrup Bottle, Backpack, and Moose Companion

Maple Syrup Bottle Prop

Using the Amber Orange and Dark Brown yarn, we will create a miniature culinary accessory.

• The Body: Using Amber yarn, cast on 8 stitches. Join in round. kfb to 16. Knit 10 rounds and close. This forms a small rectangular block.
• The Label: Work a tiny square in White (cast on 4, knit 4 rows). Embroider a tiny red maple leaf in the center. Sew this to the front of the bottle.
• The Cap: Knit a 2-round cap in Dark Brown and sew to the top. Position the bottle next to the bunny.

The Knitted Forest Backpack

The bunny carries a small bag designed for hiking treasures. Use the Light Tan yarn and 3.25mm needles.

1. Cast on 15 stitches. Work flat in stockinette for 10 inches.
2. Fold the bottom 4 inches up and sew the side seams to form the main pocket.
3. The remaining 2 inches fold over as the top flap. Add a tiny brown button for the clasp.
4. Knit two 5-inch I-cord straps and attach to the back. Drape the backpack over the bunny’s shoulders.

The Miniature 3D Moose Companion

This tiny pet stands next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic forest posture. It is worked in several small parts using a fine gauge.

1. Body and Head: Using Dark Brown yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round. kfb into every stitch (12). Knit 12 rounds for the body, incorporating a slightly wider section for the head.
2. Antlers: Using Light Tan thread, knit two tiny flat paddles (Cast on 3, increase to 5, knit 3 rows, bind off). Sew to the top of the head.
3. Legs: Knit four tiny 1-inch I-cords in black and sew to the bottom. Position the moose faithfully next to the bunny’s boots.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The personality of your Autumn Maple & Moose Bunny emerges during the final assembly. Ensure all parts are aligned perfectly with the reference image before securing the knots. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest.

Face Detail: Using dark charcoal embroidery thread, 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, inquisitive 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 small, circular motion. This adds a youthful, healthy glow that mimics the crisp autumn air. Check all seams for any gaps and ensure all loose yarn ends are woven in deeply so they are hidden within the stuffing.

Final Dressing: Dress the bunny in the mustard skirt first, followed by the dark brown vest. Slip the boots onto the feet. Position the plaid hat between the ears. Finally, arrange the backpack, syrup bottle, and moose companion as shown to complete the forest explorer scene. Check that the ears are standing tall and symmetrical.

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation 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 of the merino fibers and snagging of the delicate maple leaf embroidery. Regular maintenance will ensure she remains as beautiful as the day you finished her.

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 leaves on the skirt or the moose motif on the vest, as this can distort the stitches or cause the vibrant orange colors to bleed. Let the doll soak for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.

To dry, place the bunny between two clean, thick towels and press down gently to remove 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 autumn 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 dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing with your fingers to restore her original plump shape and use a small needle to “fluff” the maple leaf petals back into their rounded form.

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 Autumn Maple & Moose Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come. Every stitch in the dark vest and every embroidered leaf on the yellow skirt contributes to a narrative of patience and artistic expression. Enjoy the process of bringing this forest-dwelling rabbit to life!