The Marigold Garden Bunny is a breathtaking example of amigurumi artistry, designed for those who wish to bring the vibrant essence of an autumn garden into their creative space. This sophisticated character features a soft, tan-colored rabbit base dressed in a classic cottagecore ensemble, including a rich terracotta-brown pinafore and a signature marigold-rimmed straw hat. To ensure your finished doll has the same high-definition quality seen in professional artisan displays, it is highly recommended to buy premium cotton amigurumi yarn and purchase ergonomic crochet hook sets that allow for precise stitch control during long sessions. You can easily order high-quality crochet supplies, including high-grade safety eyes and professional fiberfill, from reputable online retailers like Amazon to give your bunny the structural integrity and soft finish it deserves. This project is a rewarding investment of your creative time, resulting in a stunning heirloom piece that showcases advanced techniques in garment layering, texture building, and miniature companion construction. Whether as a gift for a dedicated collector or a centerpiece for your home decor, this bunny radiates warmth and artisanal excellence.

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

Project Materials and Tool Preparation

Before beginning the construction of your Marigold Garden Bunny, gather all the necessary supplies to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted experience. The proportions of this character are designed to be substantial yet delicate, requiring a consistent gauge across all components. Using a hook size that is slightly smaller than what the yarn label recommends is the secret to creating a tight, dense fabric that keeps the stuffing completely hidden.

• Bunny Body Yarn: Tan or Light Brown Sport weight cotton (approx. 150g).
• Undershirt Yarn: Crisp White cotton (approx. 40g).
• Pinafore Dress Yarn: Terracotta or Deep Brown cotton (approx. 80g).
• Marigold Accents Yarn: Vibrant Orange and Golden Yellow (approx. 30g each).
• Straw Hat and Bag Yarn: Warm Sand or Beige cotton (approx. 60g).
• Raccoon Companion Yarn: Medium Grey, Jet Black, and Off-White (small amounts).
• Shoes Yarn: Dark Chocolate Brown.
• Safety Eyes: 12mm black safety eyes for the bunny; 5mm eyes for the raccoon.
• Crochet Hooks: 2.25mm for the bunny and accessories; 2.75mm for the clothing to provide a softer drape.
• Stuffing: High-density, anti-allergenic polyester fiberfill.
• Embroidery: Dark brown thread for the bunny’s nose and black thread for the raccoon’s features.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, sharp embroidery scissors, and two small bronze buckles or buttons for the shoes.

Common Stitch Abbreviations and Guide

This project utilizes standard United States terminology. Accuracy in stitch placement and maintaining even tension are paramount for ensuring that the tiered garments fit the bunny’s body perfectly. If your tension tends to be naturally loose, consider moving down half a hook size for the amigurumi parts.

• 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.
• FLO: Front loops only.
• st(s): Stitch or stitches.
• BO: Bobble Stitch (Work 4 unfinished double crochets into one stitch, then yarn over and pull through all 5 loops on hook).

The Sculpted Bunny Head

The head is designed as a large, rounded sphere with subtle tapering toward the chin to provide a gentle, soulful 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 during the shaping of the cheeks.

1. Round 1: Start with a MR and place 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 12-25: 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 eyes. (66)
13. Round 26: Perform a sequence of (9 sc, 1 dec) repeated 6 times. (60)
14. Round 27: Perform a sequence of (8 sc, 1 dec) repeated 6 times. (54)
15. Round 28: Perform a sequence of (7 sc, 1 dec) repeated 6 times. (48)
16. Placement: Insert the 12mm safety eyes between rounds 18 and 19, leaving approximately 12 stitches of space between them. Ensure they are perfectly level.
17. Round 29: Perform a sequence of (6 sc, 1 dec) repeat 6 times. (42)
18. Round 30: 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.
20. Round 31: Perform a sequence of (4 sc, 1 dec) repeat 6 times. (30)
21. Round 32: Perform a sequence of (3 sc, 1 dec) repeat 6 times. (24)
22. Round 33: Perform a sequence of (2 sc, 1 dec) repeat 6 times. (18)
23. Round 34: Perform a sequence of (1 sc, 1 dec) repeat 6 times. (12) Finish stuffing the head to a firm, smooth consistency.
24. Round 35: 6 dec to close. (6) Fasten off and leave a long tail. Use a tapestry needle to pull the hole closed securely.

Facial Embroidery and Muzzle Sculpting

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 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 and the center of the muzzle area for a healthy garden glow. You may also add a tiny white “sparkle” stitch at the top corner of each eye to make her look alert and curious.

Long Floppy Bunny Ears

The ears are a signature feature, requiring a long, flat construction that allows them to hang naturally beside the face. We do not stuff the ears to maintain flexibility. Make two 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.

Constructing the Sturdy Torso

The body is shaped to stand stably while providing a solid frame for the heavy tiered dress. We work from the neck down. Use Tan yarn and maintain firm tension to prevent the dress from sagging. Ensure the bottom is stuffed heavily to provide a flat base for standing.

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. Rounds 22-38: sc in each st around. (54) Stuff firmly as you progress.
12. Round 39: (7 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (48)
13. Round 40: (6 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (42)
14. Round 41: (5 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (36)
15. Round 42: (4 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (30)
16. Round 43: (3 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (24) Stuff the lower body very firmly.
17. Round 44: (2 sc, 1 dec) repeat around. (18)
18. Round 45: sc in each st around. (18) Fasten off, leaving a long tail for assembly.

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Slender Arms and Stable 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.

Bunny 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.

Bunny 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.

The Wardrobe – White Undershirt

The bunny wears a white under-layer with long sleeves. Use the White yarn and the 2.75mm hook. This piece is worked in pieces and then assembled on the doll.

Shirt Bodice

1. Row 1: Ch 31. Starting in 2nd ch, work 30 sc across. Ch 1, turn.
2. Row 2-8: sc in each st across. (30)
3. Row 9: 5 sc, ch 10, skip 5 sts (armhole), 10 sc, ch 10, skip 5 sts, 5 sc.
4. Row 10: sc across the entire row, including the chains. Fasten off.

Puffy Sleeves

1. Join white yarn to the armhole space.
2. Round 1: Work 18 sc around.
3. Round 2: (2 sc, inc) repeat 6 times. (24)
4. Rounds 3-20: sc in each st around.
5. Round 21: (2 sc, dec) repeat around to tighten the cuff. (18)
6. Round 22: sl st in each st around. Fasten off. Repeat for the second sleeve.

The Terracotta Marigold Pinafore

The dress is the centerpiece of the outfit, featuring a flared skirt and the iconic marigold border. Use the Terracotta yarn and the 2.75mm hook.

Pinafore Bodice

1. Row 1: Ch 31. Starting in 2nd ch, work 30 sc. Ch 1, turn.
2. Rows 2-6: sc in each st across. (30)
3. Straps: At the front corners, ch 15 and secure to the back waistband to create the pinafore look.

Flared Skirt and Marigold Border

1. Join Terracotta yarn to the bottom of the bodice. Work in rounds.
2. Round 1: (sc 2, inc) around. (40)
3. Round 2: (sc 3, inc) around. (50)
4. Round 3-15: sc in each st around. (50)
5. Round 16 (Foundation for Border): Switch to Orange. Work (sc 2, inc) around. (approx. 66 sts)
6. Round 17 (Marigold Petals): In FLO, work *sc 1, BO (Bobble stitch), sc 1* in Orange. In the BLO, repeat the pattern in Yellow. This creates the dense, multi-colored floral texture at the hem.
7. Round 18: Work a final round of sc in Orange around the very edge. Fasten off and weave in all ends.

The Ruffled Marigold Collar

1. Row 1: In Orange yarn, ch 31. Work 30 sc across.
2. Row 2: (sc 1, inc) repeat across. (45)
3. Row 3: Switch to Yellow. Work (3 dc in each st) across to create an extreme ruffle. Fasten off and tie around the bunny’s neck.

The Marigold Straw Hat

The hat is a wide-brimmed straw hat adorned with marigold textures and a satin bow. Use the Sand-colored yarn.

1. Round 1: 6 sc in a MR. (6)
2. Round 2: 6 inc. (12)
3. Round 3: (1 sc, inc) around. (18)
4. Round 4: (2 sc, inc) around. (24)
5. Round 5: (3 sc, inc) around. (30)
6. Round 6: (4 sc, inc) around. (36)
7. Round 7: (5 sc, inc) around. (42)
8. Round 8: (6 sc, inc) around. (48)
9. Rounds 9-13: sc in each st around. (48)
10. Round 14 (Brim): Work in FLO. (sc 2, inc) repeat around. (64)
11. Round 15: sc around. (64)
12. Marigold Rim Texture: Switch to Orange. Work a round of BO stitches in the FLO of the brim edge. Switch to Yellow and work a round of sc in the BLO. Fasten off.
13. Finishing: Wrap an orange satin ribbon around the crown of the hat and tie a small bow on the left side.

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Accessories: Tote Bag and Garden Trowel

Cream Garden Tote

1. Body: In Sand yarn, ch 13. Work 12 sc on one side and 12 sc on the other. (24)
2. Rounds 2-10: sc in each st around. (24)
3. Handles: ch 10 from one side and sl st to the other. Repeat for the back.
4. Detail: Using Terracotta yarn, embroider a small heart or square pocket on the front of the bag.

Garden Trowel

1. Blade: In Light Grey yarn, ch 6. Work 5 sc across for 4 rows. Dec at the tip to create a point.
2. Handle: In Terracotta yarn, MR 6 sc. Work 5 rounds of 6 sc. Sew to the flat end of the grey blade.

The Miniature Raccoon Companion

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

1. Head & Body: Work as one piece in Grey. MR, 6 sc. (R2) 12 sc. (R3) 18 sc. (R4-R12) 18 sc. (R13) dec around. Stuff and close.
2. Face Mask: Using Black thread, embroider two teardrop shapes around the eyes. Add a tiny white muzzle patch.
3. Striped Tail: Alternate 2 rounds of Black and 2 rounds of Grey for 15 rounds total. Sew to the back of the body.
4. Miniature Apron: In Sand yarn, ch 8. Work 6 rows of 7 sc. Add two long chains at the top corners to tie around the raccoon’s neck. Add a small brown pocket in the center.

Footwear: Chocolate Buckle Shoes

Make two shoes using Dark Brown yarn to match the garden theme.

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. Round 5: 8 sc, 3 dec, 6 sc. (17)
6. Strap: ch 8 from one side of the shoe opening to the other. Fasten off and sew a tiny bronze buckle or button to the side.

Final Assembly and Sculpting Mastery

Assembling the Marigold Garden Bunny is a process that requires patience to ensure all elements are symmetrical. Follow these final steps to bring your character 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 the straw hat.
• Ear placement: Pin the long ears to Round 6 of the head. Check from the front to ensure they are symmetrical and centered before sewing them securely. They should hang straight down behind the bunny’s shoulders.
• Dressing: Slide the white undershirt onto the bunny first. Layer the terracotta pinafore over the shirt and secure the straps at the back. Put the dark brown shoes on the feet.
• Styling: Place the straw hat on the head, pulling it slightly forward for a jaunty look. Tie the ruffled collar around the neck.
• Final Touches: Position the garden tote bag and the trowel in the bunny’s hands using small hidden stitches. Place the miniature raccoon companion next to the bunny’s 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 pink 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 seasonal aesthetics. Store your finished doll in a dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrancy of the orange and terracotta 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 to sit near?