The Lavender Bee Garden Bunny is a breathtaking example of the heights reachable in contemporary amigurumi, merging high-fashion doll couture with classic cottagecore aesthetics. This character stands as a testament to the beauty of detailed craftsmanship, featuring a serene oatmeal-colored rabbit outfitted in a layered garden ensemble. Her lavender dress showcases a sophisticated white picket fence motif topped with delicate floral sprigs, while her cream cropped cardigan provides the perfect canvas for a whimsical 3D honeybee. To ensure your finished heirloom reaches this level of professional quality, it is vital to order premium merino wool and high-grade amigurumi supplies. Many collectors find that buying luxury knitting needles and purchasing organic fiberfill significantly improves the structural integrity of the bunny’s standing posture. This project is a rewarding pursuit for any artisan looking to buy specialty yarns and transform them into a storied work of art that captures the essence of a tranquil summer meadow.

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

Essential Materials and Specialized Tools

To recreate the exact visual weight and texture seen in the reference image, the selection of fibers is the most critical stage. This design relies on the soft drape of fine wool to allow the clothing to sit naturally on the rabbit’s frame without adding excessive bulk. The following list ensures a 100% accurate reproduction of the original character.

• Primary Yarn (Oatmeal/Beige): 100g of DK weight extra-fine merino wool. A natural, slightly heathered beige provides the timeless “oatmeal” look for the skin.
• Dress Yarn (Lavender): 50g of DK weight wool in a soft, dusty lavender or light lilac shade.
• Cardigan Yarn (Cream): 50g of Sport weight or light DK yarn in a warm off-white or cream tone.
• Accessory Yarn (Mustard Yellow): 25g of DK weight yarn for the honeycomb bag.
• Accent Colors: Small amounts of Pure White (fence and wings), Deep Plum (shoes and beret), Forest Green (stems), and Charcoal/Yellow (bee body).
• Knitting Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) and US Size 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circulars for the magic loop method. The smaller needles are used for the body to create a dense, stitch-hidden fabric.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes.
• Stuffing: High-density polyester fiberfill to allow the bunny to stand or sit firmly.
• Notions: One tiny cream button (4mm) for the cardigan, one purple button (4mm) for the shoes, a tapestry needle, and a fine embroidery needle for the floral details.
• Handkerchief: A small square of white linen or a knitted white lace square (instructions included).

Structural Specifications and Gauge

The integrity of this doll depends on a firm gauge. Unlike a garment intended for a human, amigurumi must be knit tightly enough so that when the piece is stuffed, the fiberfill remains invisible. For the bunny’s body, aim for 28 stitches and 36 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the 2.75mm needles. The clothing items are knit with slightly larger needles to allow for flexibility and ease of dressing the doll. Always measure your work as you go, as slight variations in tension can affect the fit of the lavender dress over the bunny’s hips.

Bunny Foundation: Leg and Torso Construction

The construction begins at the base of the feet to provide a stable foundation. The legs are worked as seamless tubes and then joined to form the lower abdomen. This ensures the rabbit has the structural strength required for an upright posture.

The Right Leg

Using the oatmeal-colored yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across three needles and join for working in the round. Place a marker to indicate the start of the round.

Rnd 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
Rnd 2: *Knit 2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
Rnds 3-10: Knit all stitches. This builds the rounded volume of the foot.
Rnd 11: Knit 12, (knit 2 together – k2tog) 4 times, knit 12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
Rnd 12: Knit 10, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 10 (24 sts).
Rnd 13: Knit all stitches.
Rnds 14-45: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 5.5 inches (14 cm). Ensure your tension remains extremely consistent to avoid any visible “jog” in the stitches. Stuff the foot area very firmly, ensuring the toe is rounded and the heel is defined. Stuff the rest of the leg moderately to allow for flexibility. Leave these stitches on a holder or a spare needle.

The Left Leg

Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg. After finishing Round 45, do not break the yarn. We will use the working yarn from the left leg to initiate the joining process for the torso.

 

Building the Torso and Hips

Joining the legs correctly is the most critical stage for the character’s posture. We will create a gap between the legs to give the bunny her wide, rounded hips, which are necessary for the flared lavender dress to sit correctly.

Rnd 46 (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 gap (56 sts total).
Rnds 47-62: Knit every stitch in the round. This section establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Maintain a firm tension to ensure the fabric is smooth and dense.
Rnd 63: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 64-68: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 69: *Knit 11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 70-74: Knit all stitches. 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.
Rnd 75: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 76-80: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 81: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 82: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 83: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 84: *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 “floppy head” syndrome.

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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. This part must be stuffed very firmly to maintain its shape over time, especially since the purple beret will add weight to the crown.

The Snout and Face

Rnd 85: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 86: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 87: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 88: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 89: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
Rnds 90-110: Knit all stitches in stockinette. 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 100 and 101, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are centered relative to the front of the feet for a balanced, thoughtful gaze.

Closing the Crown

Rnd 111: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 112: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 113: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 114: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 115: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
Begin stuffing the head very firmly at this point. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks. Use small amounts of stuffing at a time to avoid lumps.
Rnd 116: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 117: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 118: k2tog around (8 sts). Break the yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread the tail 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, standing tall at the crown before showing a natural floppy drape. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. Use the oatmeal yarn and 3.0mm needles.

Cast on 12 stitches. Work flat.
Rows 1-45: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long, elegant rectangle.
Row 46: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, slip-slip-knit (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 them to the top of the head at Round 114, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright but have the flexibility to flop naturally as shown.

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 white handkerchief. Join oatmeal yarn in the round on 2.75mm DPNs.

Cast on 10 stitches.
Rnds 1-40: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
Rnd 41: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat (8 sts).
Rnd 42: 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.

 

The Lavender Sprig Dress

This dress is the artistic centerpiece of the character. It features a flared A-line silhouette with a complex Fair Isle picket fence motif and hand-embroidered lavender sprigs. We use the lavender yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.

Knitting the Skirt

Cast on 90 stitches in Lavender. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This creates a clean, rolled hem that won’t curl excessively.
Rnds 7-10: Continue in stockinette stitch in Lavender.
Picket Fence Motif: Join White yarn. Work as follows:
Rnd 11: *Knit 1 White, Knit 2 Lavender* repeat around.
Rnd 12: *Knit 1 White, Knit 2 Lavender* repeat around.
Rnd 13: *Knit 1 White, Knit 2 Lavender* repeat around.
Rnd 14: Knit all stitches in White. This creates the top rail of the fence.
Rnd 15: Continue in Lavender for 20 rounds. The skirt should fall just above the bunny’s ankles.
Rnd 36 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (81 sts).
Rnd 37: *Knit 7, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 38: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist perfectly.

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The Bodice

Rnds 39-48: Knit all stitches in Lavender. Maintain a smooth, even 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. Slip the dress onto the bunny before moving to the embroidery.

Floral Embroidery Guide

The lavender sprigs are placed directly above each white fence post. Use a sharp embroidery needle, forest green thread, and purple yarn.
The Stems: Using a stem stitch or backstitch with green thread, create short vertical stems (about 1.5 cm) starting from the white fence line.
The Lavender Buds: At the top of each stem, use the purple yarn to create small clusters of French knots or tiny bullion knots. Group them in a conical shape to mimic real lavender blossoms. This detail must be repeated around the entire circumference of the skirt hem for 100% accuracy.

 

The Cream Crop Cardigan and 3D Bee

The cardigan is a standout piece worked flat with specific raglan shaping. It features a decorative seed stitch border on the placket and a high-relief honeybee applique on the left chest.

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

Using the cream yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 40 stitches. We work this piece flat from the top down.
Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the collar.
Row 5 (RS): Knit 6 (front), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k10 (back), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k6 (front).
Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
Continue increasing at the raglan points every RS row until the piece measures 2 inches (5 cm).
Separate for Sleeves: Work the front stitches, place sleeve stitches on a holder, work back stitches, place second sleeve stitches on a holder, work the second front. Continue the body for 1.5 inches (4 cm). Finish with a 3-row garter stitch hem and bind off.
Sleeves: Pick up the stitches from the holder and work in the round (using DPNs) for 12 rounds. Bind off. Sew the tiny cream button to the top left edge of the cardigan.

The 3D Honeybee Applique

This tiny pet requires extreme precision to capture the look in the photo.
Body: Using black yarn, cast on 4 stitches. Knit 1 round. Change to yellow. Knit 2 rounds. Change to black. Knit 1 round. Change to yellow. Knit 2 rounds. Close the stitches and stuff with a tiny scrap of yarn to form an oval.
Wings: Cut two small circles from white organza or knit two tiny translucent white circles (Cast on 3, kfb, bind off). Sew them to the back of the bee. Attach the finished bee firmly to the right chest of the cream cardigan.

 

Honeycomb Messenger Bag and Mary Jane Shoes

Mustard Honeycomb Bag

The bag features a distinct textured stitch to mimic a honeycomb. Use the mustard yellow yarn.
Stitch Pattern (Honeycomb): Row 1: Knit. Row 2: *K1, slip 1 with yarn in front* repeat. Row 3: Knit. Row 4: *Slip 1 with yarn in front, K1* repeat.
Cast on 12 stitches. Work in the Honeycomb pattern for 5 inches (12 cm). Fold the piece, leaving a small flap at the top. Sew the side seams. Create a 12-inch I-cord for the strap and sew to the sides of the bag. Use the embroidery needle to add a few brown “spots” to represent honey bees returning to the hive.

Dark Purple Mary Janes (Make 2)

These shoes are separate items that 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.
The Strap: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately. Sew the small purple button to the side of the strap for a functional, boutique look.

 

The Floral Beret and Handkerchief Accessory

The Purple Beret

The hat is a classic rounded design that sits snugly between the bunny’s ears. Use the deep plum yarn.
Cast on 46 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-5: *K1, P1* ribbing for a firm brim.
Rnd 6: *Kfb, k1* repeat around (69 sts). This creates the necessary volume for the “puffy” beret look.
Rnds 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch.
Rnd 21: *K6, k2tog* repeat around.
Rnd 22: *K5, k2tog* repeat around.
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through and fasten off.
Side Flower: Using the lavender yarn, knit a small 5-petaled flower (cast on 10, *k1, bind off 1* repeat, join in a circle). Sew the flower to the right side of the beret. Use a yellow French knot for the center.

Embroidered Handkerchief

A true lady-rabbit always carries a handkerchief. If you are not using a fabric scrap, knit a 2-inch square in White using the seed stitch (k1, p1 alternating every row). Once complete, use your embroidery needle and purple yarn to stitch a tiny sprig of lavender in the corner. Place this in the bunny’s right hand with a single securing stitch.

 

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

The personality of the Lavender Bee Garden Bunny emerges during the final sewing stage. Follow these steps for a professional finish:

Face Detailing: Use dark brown embroidery thread to stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth centered exactly between the safety eyes. The nose should be positioned low on the face to create a sweet, innocent 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 circular motion. This adds a youthful, healthy glow that mimics the soft lighting in the photo.

Dressing: Place the lavender dress on the bunny first, ensuring the picket fence motif is aligned with the center of the body. Layer the cream cardigan over her shoulders and secure the button. Place the honeycomb bag diagonally across her chest. Slip the Mary Jane shoes onto her feet. Position the beret between her ears, tilting it slightly to one side for a fashionable flair. Finally, place the 3D honeybee on her hand or shoulder and secure the handkerchief.

 

Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines

Because this project features intricate 3D appliques, fine embroidery, and multiple layers of delicate wool, proper care is essential to preserve its heirloom quality. This bunny is intended as an art doll rather than a play toy, and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the stitches.

Washing Instructions: Hand washing is the only recommended method. 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 lavender sprigs or the 3D bee, as this can distort the stitches or cause the lavender petals to fray. Let the doll soak for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.

Drying: 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 lavender and mustard 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.

Storage: 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 Lavender Bee Garden Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come.

Knitting a project of this scale and detail is a labor of love. Every stitch in the cream cardigan and every petal on the lavender 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 garden-dwelling rabbit to life!

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