The Pink Carnation & Shih Tzu Bunny is a magnificent heirloom-quality creation that blends the delicate elegance of botanical blooms with the heartwarming charm of a beloved lap dog. This sophisticated design features a gentle cream-toned rabbit dressed in a serene white dress adorned with a central Pink Carnation motif, a textured rose-pink cardigan featuring Shih Tzu companion motifs, and a matching bow headband. To achieve the professional finish seen in the inspiration photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist natural fiber that offers superior stitch definition for the intricate embroidery and colorwork. When you shop for professional knitting supplies and order specialized artisan yarns, the complex textures of the floral ensemble and the sculptural form of the miniature Shih Tzu companion remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for any fiber artist looking to purchase luxury craft materials and transform them into a storied work of art that celebrates the serene beauty of a spring landscape.

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

Technical Specifications and Material Selection

Achieving a professional-grade reproduction of this character requires meticulous attention to yarn weight, fiber content, and needle tension. The bunny and its accessories are designed using a fine-gauge approach to ensure the resulting fabric is dense enough to hold a complex shape while remaining soft to the touch. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer suggests is a professional secret for creating a solid, opaque fabric that keeps the internal fiberfill foundation completely concealed, even under tension. For the best results, look to purchase high-end needles and buy soft wool blends that provide both durability and a luxury feel.

• Main Bunny Skin: 150g of DK weight wool in Cream or Soft Vanilla. A natural, slightly heathered wool provides the best organic texture for an artisan doll.
• Carnation Dress: 75g of DK weight yarn in Pure White.
• Cardigan and Headband: 125g of DK weight yarn in Rose Pink or Dusty Rose.
• Winter Footwear: 50g of DK weight yarn in Rose Pink for the Mary Jane shoes.
• Shih Tzu Motif and Pet Companion: 50g of DK weight yarn in Toffee Brown, 30g in Pure White, and 10g in Jet Black.
• Botanical Embroidery Palette:
  • Deep Pink: 20g for the carnation petals.
  • Leaf Green: 15g for the stems and leaves.
  • Bright Pink: 10g for the chevron dress borders.
• Needle Sizes: US Size 2 (2.75mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the bunny body and limbs; US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular or straight needles for the garments.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the bunny; 4mm black beads for the Shih Tzu’s features.
• Internal Foundation: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 400g).
• Essential Notions: Tapestry needle, fine embroidery needles, stitch markers, small pink buttons for shoes and cardigan, and a miniature tassels for the pillow.

Constructing the Bunny Foundation: Legs and Feet

The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward to ensure the bunny has the structural integrity needed for its upright 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 sturdy limbs that look realistic when posed on the wooden surface. The firmness of the foot stuffing is vital for the doll’s balance.

Right Leg Architecture

Using the cream yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them evenly across your needles and join for working in the round. Place a marker at the start of the round to track your row count accurately.

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. Round 3: *Knit 3, kfb* repeat from * to the end of the round (40 sts).
4. Rounds 4-12: Knit every stitch straight. This builds the rounded base and vertical height of the foot.
5. Round 13 (Instep Shaping): Knit 15, (knit 2 together – k2tog) 5 times, knit 15 (35 sts). This creates the elegant curve of the top of the foot.
6. Round 14: Knit 13, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 14 (31 sts).
7. Round 15: Knit 11, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 12 (27 sts).
8. Round 16: Knit all stitches. This stabilizes the ankle join.
9. Rounds 17-65: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 7 inches (17.5 cm) from the sole. Stuff the foot area very firmly, ensuring the toe is rounded and the heel has a distinct shape. Stuff the rest of the leg moderately to allow for flexibility at the hip join.

Break the yarn and place những stitches on a holder. Repeat the exact instructions for the Left Leg. After reaching Round 65 on the second leg, do not break the yarn; this will be used to join the two pieces and begin the torso.

Sculpting the Torso and Rounded Hips

Joining the legs correctly is vital for the bunny’s balance and the flare of the white dress. We create a bridge of stitches between the legs to provide the wide, rounded hips required for the Pink Carnation embroidery to be displayed prominently. This section requires firm stuffing to prevent the doll from sagging over time.

Round 66 (The Joining Round): Knit across the 27 stitches of the left leg, cast on 4 stitches for the center gap, knit across the 27 stitches of the right leg, and cast on another 4 stitches for the back (62 sts total). Join for circular knitting.

• Rounds 67-90: Knit every stitch in the round for twenty-four rounds. This section establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Focus on maintaining even tension.
• Round 91: *Knit 13, k2tog* repeat around (58 sts).
• Rounds 92-100: Knit all stitches straight.
• Round 101: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (54 sts).
• Rounds 102-110: Knit all stitches. Begin stuffing the lower body firmly, pushing the stuffing toward the sides to define the rounded hip silhouette.
• Round 111: *Knit 7, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
• Rounds 112-118: Knit all stitches.
• Round 119: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
• Round 120: Knit all stitches.
• Round 121: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
• Round 122: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
• Round 123: *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 tapered bridge of the nose. Firm stuffing is essential here to support the weight of the long floppy ears. The head and body are worked as one piece to eliminate the need for a neck seam, providing a more stable structure.

1. Round 124: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
2. Round 125: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
3. Round 126: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Round 127: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
5. Round 128: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts). Establish this as the widest part of the face.
6. Rounds 129-155: Knit every stitch in stockinette straight for twenty-seven rounds. This builds the vertical volume of the face and forehead.

Position the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 140 and 141, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level and aligned for a thoughtful gaze. Secure the backings firmly before proceeding with the closing rounds.

• Round 156: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
• Round 157: Knit all stitches. This round stabilizes the decrease.
• Round 158: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
• Round 159: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
• Round 160: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
• Round 161: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
• Begin stuffing the head very firmly at this point. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead. Use small pinches of stuffing at a time to avoid lumps.
• Round 162: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
• Round 163: k2tog around (8 sts). Break the yarn and pull through the remaining stitches. Weave the end securely inside the head.

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Long Drooping Ears and Slender Arms

The ears are designed to hang low and soft, giving the bunny its signature “Lop” or drooping appearance. The arms are kept slender to allow the pink cardigan to fit perfectly without restricted movement or bulkiness.

Drooping Cream Ears (Make 2)

Using cream yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 14 stitches. We work these flat to allow for a slightly concave interior shape.

• Rows 1-65: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long, elegant rectangle.
• Row 66: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, slip-slip-knit (ssk) (12 sts).
• Row 67: Purl all stitches.
• Row 68: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (10 sts).
• Row 69: Purl all stitches.
• Row 70: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
• Row 71: Purl all stitches.
• Row 72: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (6 sts).
• Bind off all stitches. Fold the base of the ear slightly and sew to the sides of the head at Round 150, spacing them to frame the face symmetrically.

Slender Arm Construction (Make 2)

Using cream yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round to match the leg construction style.

1. Rounds 1-52: Knit every round straight. Maintain a consistent gauge.
2. Round 53: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
3. Round 54: k2tog around (4 sts). Break yarn and pull through the stitches.
4. Stuff the hand area (the bottom 1 inch) firmly and the upper arm very lightly. This allows the arms to rest naturally at the bunny’s sides under the cardigan. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck join at Round 123.

The White Carnation Dress

The dress is a classic A-line garment featuring intricate colorwork borders and a central floral motif. The Pink Carnation embroidery is the artistic centerpiece and should be worked with high-quality embroidery needles.

Using White yarn and 3.25mm circular needles, cast on 96 stitches. Join in the round.

• Rounds 1-4: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch in the round). This creates a flat, non-rolling edge.
• Rounds 5-8: Using Bright Pink yarn, work a chevron (zig-zag) pattern. Round 5: *Knit 1 Pink, Knit 1 White* repeat. Round 6: *Knit 1 White, Knit 1 Pink* repeat.
• Rounds 9-45: Switch back to White yarn and continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt.
• Round 46 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 10, k2tog* repeat around (88 sts).
• Round 47: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
• Round 48: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts). This gathers the waist snugly.
• Rounds 49-58: Knit straight to form the bodice.
• Round 59: Repeat the Bright Pink chevron pattern from Rounds 5-8 to finish the neckline border.
• Bind off all stitches loosely. Secure the dress at the bunny’s waist during final assembly.

Detailed Pink Carnation Embroidery

Position one large carnation in the center of the chest. Use a fine embroidery needle and the pink and green palette.

• The Stems: Using a stem stitch with green yarn, create a 3 cm vertical line rising from the center. Add two small, elegant leaves using a satin stitch.
• The Blossom: Use Deep Pink yarn to create the ruffled carnation petals. Work a series of densely packed French knots or lazy-daisy stitches in a circular cluster to represent the dense, layered petals of a carnation.
• Highlights: Add tiny straight stitches of lighter pink to the edges of the petals to give the flower dimension and light.

The Rose Pink Shih Tzu Cardigan

The cardigan is worked flat and features two detailed Shih Tzu motifs that act as pocket details on the front panels. This piece requires careful color management and tension to ensure the Shih Tzu’s features stand out.

Using Rose Pink yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 48 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 7 (front), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k10 (sleeve), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k12 (back), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k10 (sleeve), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k7 (front).
3. Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
4. Continue increasing at raglan points every RS row until the body measures 3 inches (7.5 cm) from the collar.
5. Separate for Sleeves: Place sleeve stitches on holders. Join the front and back panels to continue the body for another 3.5 inches. Finish with 4 rows of ribbing and bind off.
6. Sleeves: Pick up the stitches from the holder and knit in the round for 4 inches. Finish with a 3-round ribbed cuff.

Shih Tzu Pocket Detail Embroidery

On both the left and right front panels, use Toffee Brown and White yarns to create miniature Shih Tzu faces using a duplicate stitch (Swiss darning) or by knitting small separate circles and sewing them on. The mask should be a mix of brown and white, with a pure white muzzle. Use tiny black beads for the eyes and nose to capture the signature Shih Tzu gaze. Ensure the “fur” looks textured by using a slightly fuzzy yarn or by brushing the surface gently.

The Bow Headband and Mary Jane Shoes

Rose Pink Bow Headband

Using Rose Pink yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. Join in the round.

• Rounds 1-6: Knit all stitches. Bind off all stitches.
• The Bow: Cast on 12 stitches. Work in stockinette stitch for 18 rows. Bind off. Wrap a strand of yarn tightly around the center to pinch the fabric into a bow shape. Sew the bow onto the headband.
• Position the headband on the bunny’s head, just in front of the ears, ensuring the bow is centered.

Rose Pink Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

Using Rose Pink yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 22 stitches. Join in the round to create a seamless shoe.

1. Rounds 1-4: Knit all stitches. This builds the base of the sole.
2. Round 5: Knit 8, (k2tog) 3 times, knit 8 (19 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
3. Rounds 6-10: Knit straight up.
4. The Strap: Cast off 10 stitches. Work the remaining 9 stitches flat for 2 rows. On the next row, cast on 12 stitches at the end to form a strap. Knit 2 rows and bind off. Sew a tiny pink button to the side of the shoe to finish the Mary Jane look.

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The Miniature Shih Tzu Pet and Decorative Pillow

The companion elements add a narrative layer to the design. The pillow provides a base for the miniature Shih Tzu, which is worked with a very fine gauge to achieve its realistic posture.

Miniature 3D Shih Tzu Friend

Use US Size 1 (2.25mm) needles and a mix of Toffee Brown and White yarn. This pet is worked in several small parts.

• Body/Head: Cast on 10 stitches in White. kfb into every stitch (20). Knit 14 rounds for the body, switching to brown for patches using the intarsia method. Decrease back to 10 stitches for the neck, knit 8 rounds for the head, and close.
• Details: Use a small brush or a needle to “fluff” the yarn to create the long-haired look of a Shih Tzu. Add tiny black beads for eyes and a small black thread for the nose. Position the pet in a sitting posture next to the pillow.

Hand-Knitted Decorative Pillow

Using White or Soft Cream yarn, cast on 25 stitches. Work in stockinette stitch for 50 rows. Fold in half and stuff lightly with fiberfill. Sew the edges closed.

Pillow Tassels: Use Rose Pink yarn to create four small tassels. Attach one tassel to each corner of the pillow.

Pillow Bow: Knit a small bow (cast on 8, knit 12 rows) in Rose Pink and sew it to the center of the pillow for a coordinated botanical aesthetic.

Final Assembly and Face Detail

Bringing the bunny to life requires a gentle touch during the final assembly. Ensure the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest before securing any knots. All facial features must be symmetrical to the safety eyes.

Nose and Mouth: Using a dark brown embroidery thread, stitch a small “Y” shape. The center of the “Y” should be positioned exactly between the safety eyes, about two rounds below them. Keep the tension of your stitches firm to maintain the sweet, inquisitive expression seen in the photo. The mouth should be tiny and understated.

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. Be careful to build the color slowly to avoid over-saturation on the cream wool.

Final Polishing: Ensure the cardigan buttons are secure and the headband bow is fluffed. The dress should sit flat against the body, and the Mary Jane straps should be buttoned snugly over the bunny’s feet. Place the miniature Shih Tzu on its pillow next to the bunny to complete the spring garden scene.

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Because this art piece features intricate 3D embroidery, multi-layered clothing, and delicate accessories like the tassels and bow pillow, proper care is essential to preserve its appearance for decades. This bunny is an art doll intended for display rather than active play.

Professional Cleaning: Hand washing is the only recommended method. 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. Do not scrub the embroidered carnation or the Shih Tzu motifs, as this can distort the stitches. Let the doll soak for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.

The Drying Process: 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 flared dress. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the delicate pink embroidery colors over time. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing with your fingers to restore her original plump shape.

Long-term Care: 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. Regularly check the joints of the arms and the attachment of the miniature accessories to ensure the yarn remains secure. By following these maintenance steps, your Pink Carnation & Shih Tzu Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come. Every stitch in the rose-pink cardigan and every embroidered petal on the dress contributes to a narrative of patience and artistic expression.

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