The Minty Lilac & Lamb Bunny is a sophisticated project that captures the essence of a serene spring morning in the countryside. This design features a gentle oatmeal-colored rabbit dressed in a harmonious palette of mint green, soft lilac, and deep plum. Her outfit is rich with texture, from the smooth stockinette of her lilac dress—decorated with delicate embroidered floral sprigs—to her cozy mint cardigan featuring a tiny, hand-stitched lamb motif. To achieve the professional, heirloom-quality finish seen in the image, many crafters choose to buy premium extra-fine merino wool or organic cotton blends, as these fibers provide the necessary stitch definition for the intricate embroidery. When you buy high-quality materials, you ensure that the finished art doll maintains its soft shape and luxury feel for years. This project is a rewarding journey for any enthusiast looking to purchase specific yarns to create a unique work of art that radiates seasonal beauty and whimsical charm.

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

Materials and Specialized Tools

To ensure your finished bunny looks exactly like the one in the reference photo, selecting the correct yarn weight and needle size is paramount. This project is designed for DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn, which provides the structural integrity needed for a character that can sit independently while allowing for fine decorative work.

• Bunny Skin: Approximately 100g of Oatmeal or Light Taupe DK yarn. Natural wool or wool-blend fibers are recommended for a soft, matte look.
• Wardrobe Colors:
  • Soft Lilac/Lavender: 50g (Dress).
  • Mint or Sage Green: 50g (Cardigan and bag stripes).
  • Deep Plum or Dark Purple: 50g (Hat and Mary Jane shoes).
  • Cream or Off-White: 25g (Pom-pom, bag stripes, and lamb motif).
• Embroidery and Pet Details: Small amounts of Leaf Green (stems), Light Purple (lilac blossoms), and scraps of black thread for the eyes and nose of the lamb.
• Lamb Pet: Textured “sherpa” or bouclé yarn in White/Cream for the body, and smooth beige yarn for the face/limbs.
• Needles: US Size 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the limbs and US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needles for the clothing components.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny.
• Stuffing: High-grade polyester fiberfill.
• Notions: One 10mm purple button for the cardigan, a small golden bell for the lamb pet, a tapestry needle, and fine embroidery needles.

Gauge and Structural Integrity

Maintaining a firm gauge is essential for amigurumi-style knitting. If your stitches are too loose, the fiberfill will peek through the fabric, detracting from the high-end appearance. Aim for a density where the fabric feels solid. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed bunny form, so it is helpful to check the fit against the body as you knit the garments.

Knitting Abbreviations (US Standard)

• k: knit
• p: purl
• sts: stitches
• rnd: round
• st-st: stockinette stitch (knit on RS, purl on WS)
• kfb: knit into the front and back of the stitch (increase)
• m1: make one stitch by lifting the bar between stitches (increase)
• k2tog: knit two stitches together (decrease)
• ssk: slip, slip, knit the two slipped stitches together (decrease)
• RS / WS: right side / wrong side
• I-cord: a narrow tube of knitting worked on two needles

The Foundation: Knitting the Bunny Legs

The construction begins at the base of the feet to provide a sturdy foundation for the bunny’s seated pose. We work the legs as seamless tubes to avoid bulky side seams.

Right Leg Construction

Using the oatmeal yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across three DPNs and join in the round, taking care not to twist the stitches.

1. Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
2. Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat around (32 sts).
3. Rnds 3-10: Knit every stitch. This builds the rounded base and volume of the foot.
4. Rnd 11: k12, (k2tog) 4 times, k12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
5. Rnd 12: k10, (k2tog) 4 times, k10 (24 sts).
6. Rnd 13: Knit all stitches.
7. Rnds 14-42: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 5 inches.

Stuff the foot area very firmly, using your fingers to shape a rounded toe and a distinct heel. Stuff the rest of the leg moderately to allow for flexibility at the hip join. Leave these stitches on a holder or a spare needle.

Left Leg Construction

Repeat the exact instructions as the right leg. Upon finishing Round 42, do not break the yarn. We will use the working yarn from this leg to initiate the body join in the next section.

Building the Torso and Hips

Joining the legs correctly is vital for the bunny’s posture. We will create a gap between the legs to give her the wide, rounded hips required for the lilac dress to sit elegantly.

Rnd 43 (Joining): 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 (56 sts total).
Rnds 44-58: Knit all stitches in the round. This establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Maintain a firm tension to hide the stuffing.
Rnd 59: *k12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 60-65: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 66: *k11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 67-72: Knit all stitches. At this stage, begin stuffing the lower body firmly. Push the fiberfill toward the sides to define the rounded hip silhouette.
Rnd 73: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 74-78: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 79: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 80: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 81: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 82: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts). This forms the narrow neck area. Do not bind off; the head is worked directly from these stitches.

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Shaping the Bunny Head and Facial Sculpting

The head is worked directly from the neck to ensure structural integrity. We use 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.

Head Shaping Instructions

1. Rnd 83: *k2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
2. Rnd 84: *k3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
3. Rnd 85: *k4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Rnd 86: *k5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
5. Rnd 87: *k6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
6. Rnds 88-106: Knit all stitches in stockinette. This builds the vertical volume of the face and forehead. It should look like a rounded dome.
7. Position the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 96 and 97, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level with the center of the feet.

Closing the Head

1. Rnd 107: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
2. Rnd 108: Knit all stitches.
3. Rnd 109: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Rnd 110: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
5. Rnd 111: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts). Begin stuffing the head very firmly. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead.
6. Rnd 112: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
7. Rnd 113: *k1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
8. Rnd 114: k2tog around (8 sts).

Break the yarn, thread the tail through the remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and weave in the end securely inside the head.

Long Floppy Ears and Slender Arms

Detailed Ears (Make 2)

The ears are long and stand tall with a slight natural floppy curve at the tips. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. Use the oatmeal yarn and straight needles.

Cast on 12 stitches.
Rows 1-45: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long rectangle.
Row 46: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (10 sts).
Row 47: Purl all stitches.
Row 48: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
Row 49: Purl all.
Row 50: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (6 sts).
Bind off all stitches. Fold the bottom edge of the ear slightly in half to create depth and sew to the top of the head at Round 110. The ears should be positioned parallel to each other.

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 striped bag. Join oatmeal yarn in the round on DPNs.

1. Cast on 10 stitches.
2. Rnds 1-38: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
3. Rnd 39: *k3, k2tog* (8 sts).
4. Rnd 40: k2tog around (4 sts).

Break yarn and pull through. Stuff the hand area firmly and the upper arm very lightly. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck line at Round 82.

The Soft Lilac Sprig Dress

This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with a simple rolled hem. The floral embroidery is the artistic centerpiece of the garment and is added after the knitting is complete.

Knitting the Dress

Using the lilac yarn and 3.25mm circular needles, cast on 80 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean hem that won’t roll excessively.
Rnds 7-32: Continue in stockinette stitch. The skirt should fall just above the bunny’s ankles.
Rnd 33 (Waist Shaping): *k8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 34: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 35: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 36-45: Knit all stitches for the bodice section. Maintain a smooth tension.
Divide for armholes: Knit 10, bind off 4 stitches for the armhole, knit 20, bind off 4 stitches, knit 10.
Work the front and back sections separately flat for 6 rows each, then bind off. Sew the shoulder seams together, leaving a wide opening for the head.

Lilac Floral Embroidery Guide

The embroidery should be positioned on the bottom right of the skirt. Use a sharp needle, forest green thread, and light purple yarn.
The Stems: Using a stem stitch or backstitch with green thread, create three vertical stems of varying heights (approx. 1-2 inches).
The Blossoms: At the top of each stem, use the light purple yarn to create small clusters of French knots or tiny “lazy daisy” stitches to mimic the clustered look of lilac flowers. Add a few small leaves at the base using lazy daisy stitches in green.

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The Mint Green Lamb Cardigan

The cardigan is worked flat with garter stitch borders. The lamb motif is added to the chest after assembly to give it a whimsical touch.

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

Using the mint green yarn, cast on 36 stitches. We work this flat on straight needles.
Rows 1-4: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch border).
Row 5 (RS): k3, m1, k to last 3 sts, m1, k3 (38 sts).
Row 6 (WS): k3, p to last 3 sts, k3.
Rows 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch, keeping the first and last 3 stitches in garter stitch for the front plackets.
Divide for armholes: Work 9 stitches for the front, bind off 3 stitches, work 14 stitches for the back, bind off 3 stitches, work 9 stitches for the second front. Work these sections separately for 12 rows, then bind off and sew the shoulder seams.
Sleeves: Pick up 16 stitches around the armhole opening and knit for 18 rows in stockinette. Bind off loosely. Attach the purple button to the left front placket and create a small loop on the right side.

Lamb Embroidery Detail

On the right front panel of the cardigan, use white and beige yarn to embroider a tiny lamb. Use a “bullion knot” or small satin stitches with white yarn for the fluffy body. Use beige yarn for the small head and legs. Add a tiny purple bow on the lamb’s neck to match the bunny’s dress.

The Plum Stocking Cap and Mary Jane Shoes

The Slumped Stocking Cap

This hat frames the bunny’s face and matches the deep plum of the shoes. We use the deep plum yarn and join in the round.

Cast on 48 stitches.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This forms the brim.
Rnds 7-25: Continue in stockinette stitch.
Rnd 26: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnd 27: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 28: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through and fasten off.
Cream Pom-pom: Create a dense 1.5-inch pom-pom using the cream yarn and sew it firmly to the tip of the hat. Position the hat on the bunny’s head, allowing the tip to slump over one side naturally.

Plum Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

These shoes are knitted as separate items to fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the deep plum yarn.
Cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-4: Knit all stitches. This forms the side of the shoe.
Rnd 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
Rnd 6: Bind off 17 stitches loosely.
The Strap: Cast on 10 stitches and bind off immediately. Sew the strap across the top opening of the shoe. Slip onto the feet and secure with a small, hidden stitch into the leg oatmeal skin if necessary.

Accessories: Striped Bag and Lamb Pet

The Minty Striped Tote

The bunny carries a small striped bag. We alternate mint and cream yarn.
Bag Body: Cast on 12 stitches. Work in stockinette, alternating 2 rows of mint and 2 rows of cream for 20 rows. Bind off. Fold the rectangle and sew the side seams.
Handles: Knit two 3-inch I-cords in mint and sew to the top. Use green yarn to knit two tiny leaves (cast on 3, kfb, k1, kfb, row 2: purl, row 3: k2tog, k1, ssk, bind off) and sew them to the base of one handle.

The Fluffy Lamb Pet

This tiny companion is what brings the “Lamb Bunny” theme to life. Use the textured white yarn for the body and beige for the face.
Body: Using textured yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb (12). Knit 10 rounds. k2tog around. Stuff firmly and close.
Head: Using beige yarn, cast on 4 stitches. Increase to 8. Knit 4 rnds. Close and sew to body.
Details: Tie the tiny golden bell around the lamb’s neck with a scrap of plum yarn. Position the lamb next to the bunny’s feet.

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

Assembly is where your character truly comes to life. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly centered on the neck. Use dark brown 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, youthful expression.

Dress the bunny in the lilac dress first, followed by the mint cardigan. Secure the single purple button. Slip the Mary Jane shoes onto the feet. Position the stocking cap between her ears, ensuring the pom-pom hangs elegantly. Finally, place the striped bag in one arm and position the lamb pet next to her. Hide all loose yarn ends deep inside the body stuffing to ensure a clean, professional finish.

Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines

Because this project features intricate embroidery, multi-layered clothing, and textured yarns, proper care is essential to maintain its heirloom quality. Art dolls are best treated as decorative pieces, but if cleaning is necessary, follow these guidelines.

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 specifically formulated for wool or fine fibers. Submerge the bunny slowly, avoiding aggressive scrubbing. Do not scrub the embroidered lilac sprigs or the pom-pom, as this can distort the fibers or cause pilling. Let the doll soak for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.

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 dress. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant mint and plum colors. 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 to restore her original plump shape.

Knitting a project of this complexity is a labor of love. Every stitch in the mint cardigan and every petal on the lilac dress contributes to a narrative of patience and artistic expression. Whether this bunny is intended for a personal collection or as a significant gift, the effort and quality materials invested in her creation make her truly priceless. Enjoy the process of bringing this spring-inspired rabbit to life!

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