The Sweet Pea Butterfly Bunny is a masterpiece of fiber art that blends botanical elegance with the whimsical charm of a woodland fairy. This design features a gentle rabbit character dressed in a soft lilac sweater and a pink skirt adorned with trailing sweet pea vines. The defining features of this project are the delicate knitted fairy wings and the intricate braided headband decorated with dangling floral blossoms. To achieve the professional results seen in the photographs, it is essential to source the right knitting supplies. Crafters often buy premium merino yarn and high-quality amigurumi accessories to ensure the stitch definition remains crisp for the embroidery work. When you order luxury wool and use precise crafting materials, you create a durable, soft heirloom that captures the vibrant colors of a summer garden. This project is a rewarding challenge for those looking to create a high-end collectible or a sentimental gift that exudes a sense of peace and magical wonder.

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 Preparation

Selecting the correct textures is the foundation of creating a doll that looks 100% like the professional version. For this design, a DK weight (8-ply) yarn is recommended to balance structural integrity with the delicate nature of the clothing layers. Natural fibers are preferred for their classic appearance and longevity.

• Bunny Skin: Approximately 100g of Oatmeal or Soft Beige DK weight yarn. A wool-cotton blend provides a matte, natural finish that hides the stuffing effectively.
• Wardrobe Colors:
  • Lavender or Soft Lilac: 50g (Sweater, shoes, and wing accents).
  • Soft Rose Pink: 50g (Dress and sweet pea petals).
  • Leaf Green: 20g (Embroidered vines and stems).
  • Cream or Ivory: 25g (Headband and backpack).
  • Dark Purple & Magenta: Small amounts for floral depth.
• Needles: US Size 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the limbs and US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needles for the larger clothing pieces. Using a needle size slightly smaller than recommended for the yarn weight creates a dense fabric.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny.
• Stuffing: High-grade polyester fiberfill (approx. 200g-250g).
• Embroidery Tools: A sharp tapestry needle and a fine embroidery needle for the floral details.
• Butterfly Pet: Small scraps of variegated or rainbow-colored yarn for the head butterfly.

Knitting Abbreviations

• k: knit
• p: purl
• sts: stitches
• rnd(s): round(s)
• st-st: stockinette stitch
• kfb: knit into the front and back of the stitch (increase)
• m1: make one stitch (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

Part 1: The Bunny Foundation (Body and Limbs)

The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward to ensure the bunny has the stability to support the wings and the heavy knitted garments. The legs are worked as seamless tubes for a clean, professional finish.

Right Leg Construction

Using the oatmeal yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across three needles and join for working in the round, ensuring the stitches are not twisted.

1. Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
2. Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
3. Rnd 3-10: Knit every stitch. This builds the rounded base and sides 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 14-45: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 5.5 inches (14 cm). Maintain a consistent tension to ensure the skin is smooth.

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 flexibility at the hip join. Leave these stitches on a holder.

Left Leg Construction

Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg. After finishing Round 45, do not break the yarn. This working yarn will be used to initiate the body join in the next section.

Constructing the Bunny Torso and Hips

Joining the legs correctly is vital for the bunny’s posture. Place the legs side-by-side with the toes pointing forward. We will create a gap between the legs to give her the wide, rounded hips required for the pink skirt to sit elegantly.

Rnd 46 (Joining): Knit across the 24 stitches of the left leg, cast on 4 stitches for the center, knit across the 24 stitches of the right leg, and cast on 4 stitches for the back (56 sts total).
Rnds 47-62: Knit every stitch in the round. This section establishes the lower abdomen and seat. Ensure the tension remains firm to hide the stuffing.
Rnd 63: *k12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 64-68: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 69: *k11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 70-74: Knit all stitches. At this stage, begin stuffing the body firmly. Focus on pushing the stuffing toward the sides to define the rounded hip shape seen in the image.
Rnd 75: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 76-80: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 81: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 82: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 83: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 84: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts). This forms the narrow neck area. Do not bind off, as the head is worked directly from these stitches.

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Sculpting the Head and Facial Structure

The head is worked directly from the neck to ensure structural integrity. We use specific increases to define the broad cheeks and the gently tapered bridge of the nose. This part must be stuffed very firmly to support the weight of the headband and the butterfly pet.

Head Shaping Instructions

1. Rnd 85: *k2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
2. Rnd 86: *k3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
3. Rnd 87: *k4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Rnd 88: *k5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
5. Rnd 89: *k6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
6. Rnds 90-110: 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 100 and 101, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level.

Closing the Head

1. Rnd 111: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
2. Rnd 112: Knit all stitches.
3. Rnd 113: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Rnd 114: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
5. Rnd 115: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts). Begin stuffing the head very firmly. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead.
6. Rnd 116: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
7. Rnd 117: *k1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
8. Rnd 118: k2tog around (8 sts).

Break the yarn, leaving a tail. 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

Rabbit Ears (Make 2)

The ears are worked flat and then sewn to the crown. They stand tall initially before showing a natural floppy drape at the mid-point. Use the oatmeal yarn and 3.0mm 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 114, spacing them about 4 stitches apart.

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 butterfly pet. Join oatmeal yarn in the round on DPNs.

1. Cast on 10 stitches.
2. Rnds 1-38: Knit all stitches in stockinette.
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 84.

Part 2: The Wardrobe (Sweater and Skirt)

The Lavender Raglan Sweater

This sweater is worked in a soft lavender yarn. It features long sleeves and a simple ribbed hem to give it a cozy, realistic look.

Using the lavender yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. We work this piece top-down for a perfect fit.

1. Rows 1-4: *k1, p1* ribbing for the collar.
2. Rnd 5: Distribute stitches for raglan shaping: 6 sts (front), 1 st (raglan), 8 sts (sleeve), 1 st (raglan), 12 sts (back), 1 st (raglan), 8 sts (sleeve), 1 st (raglan), 6 sts (front).
3. Work raglan increases every other round until you have 80 stitches.
4. Separate the sleeves and place them on scrap yarn. Join the front and back panels.
5. Continue in stockinette for 12 rounds.
6. Finish with 4 rounds of *k1, p1* ribbing. Bind off loosely.
7. Sleeves: Pick up the sleeve stitches and work in stockinette for 15 rounds. Finish with 4 rounds of ribbing.

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The Pink Sweet Pea Skirt

The skirt features a flared A-line shape with detailed embroidery. Use the soft rose pink yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.

1. Cast on 84 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean hem that won’t roll.
3. Rnds 7-30: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt.
4. Rnd 31 (Waist Shaping): *k8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
5. Rnd 32: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
6. Rnd 33: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
7. Bind off all stitches loosely.

Sweet Pea Embroidery Guide

The embroidery is the artistic heart of the project. Use the leaf green yarn and a mix of pink and purple scraps.
The Vines: Using a stem stitch or backstitch with green yarn, create three distinct vines that start at the hem and curve upward toward the waist in a wandering pattern.
The Sweet Pea Blossoms: To create the “ruffled” flower look, use three small vertical satin stitches in pink and one tiny purple bullion knot at the base. Space 5 to 7 blossoms along the green vines. Add small “lazy daisy” green leaves at the junction of stems.

Part 3: Accessories and Magical Details

The Fairy Butterfly Wings

These wings are the most distinctive part of the ensemble. They are worked flat in two pieces and then attached to the back of the lilac sweater.

Using the lavender yarn, cast on 10 stitches.
Row 1: kfb, k to last st, kfb (12 sts).
Rows 2-10: Work in stockinette, increasing at each end every row until you have 30 stitches. This creates the broad top of the wing.
Row 11: Bind off 10 stitches at the start of the row. k to end.
Row 12: Bind off 10 stitches at the start of the row. k to end.
Rows 13-20: Decrease 1 st at each end every row until 4 stitches remain.
Bind off. Make two.
Detailing: Use a darker purple embroidery thread to outline the edges of the wings with a chain stitch. Add three diagonal lines of backstitch across the center to represent the wing veins. Sew the wings to the center back of the lilac sweater.

The Braided Floral Headband

The headband adds a soft, feminine touch, framing the bunny’s face with dangling sweet pea blooms.

The Band: Using cream yarn, cast on 4 stitches. Work a 12-inch I-cord. Fold it into a circle and sew the ends. Using another length of cream yarn, create a simple three-strand braid and wrap it around the I-cord to add texture.

Dangling Blossoms (Make 3): Knit a 1-inch green I-cord stem. Using pink yarn, cast on 5 stitches, kfb into all (10 sts), work 2 rows of stockinette, then k2tog across. Bind off and pull tight to form a bud. Sew the pink buds to the green stems and attach them to the headband so they hang over the bunny’s ears.

The Realistic Rainbow Butterfly

This 3D butterfly perches on the bunny’s head. Use the variegated or rainbow yarn.
Wings: Knit four small triangles (cast on 3, inc to 8, dec back to 3, bind off).
Body: Knit a 1-inch black I-cord.
Assembly: Sew the wings to the body. Use black thread for the antennae. Position the butterfly on the top right side of the bunny’s head and secure it firmly with a few hidden stitches.

The Miniature Flower Backpack

The bunny carries a small beige bag filled with blossoms.
Bag Body: Using cream yarn, cast on 12 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 30 rows. Fold the bottom 12 rows up to form a pocket and sew the side seams. Fold the top 6 rows down to act as a flap. Sew two thin I-cords (10 inches each) to the back as shoulder straps.
Floral Stash: Knit several tiny 1-inch pink and lavender blossoms and stitch them so they appear to be peeking out from the top of the backpack.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The personality of the Sweet Pea Butterfly Bunny comes alive during the final assembly. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest. Use the oatmeal yarn and a tapestry needle to embroider a small “Y” shape centered between the safety eyes for the nose and mouth. Keep the stitches tight and delicate for a sweet expression.

Apply a very light touch of actual pink cosmetic blush to the bunny’s cheeks in a small, circular motion. This adds a youthful, healthy glow that mimics the reference photo perfectly. Dress the bunny in the pink skirt first, ensuring the vine embroidery is centered. Layer the lilac sweater over her shoulders. Slip the lilac Mary Janes onto the feet. Place the braided headband between her ears, ensuring the sweet pea blossoms hang gracefully. Secure the backpack on her shoulders. Finally, check all seams for any gaps and ensure all loose yarn ends are woven in deeply so they are hidden within the stuffing.

Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines

Because this project features intricate 3D wings, fine embroidery, and multiple layers, proper care is essential to preserve its heirloom quality. This bunny is an art doll and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the delicate butterfly and wing details.

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 for wool or fine fibers. Submerge the bunny slowly, avoiding aggressive scrubbing. Do not scrub the embroidered vines on the skirt or the delicate fairy wings, as this can distort the stitches or cause the lavender accents to lose their shape. Let the doll soak for 10-15 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 skirt. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant lilac and pink colors. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and sweater feeling exceptionally soft. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing to restore her original plump shape.

Knitting a project of this scale and detail is a labor of love. Every stitch in the lavender sweater and every vein on the fairy wings 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 garden-dwelling magical rabbit to life!

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