The Daisy Chain & Spring Lamb Bunny – Knitting

The Daisy Chain & Spring Lamb Bunny is a breathtaking heirloom-quality art doll that encapsulates the serene beauty of a cottage garden in peak bloom. This character features a gentle ivory rabbit meticulously dressed in a sage-green cardigan adorned with 3D sheep appliqués and a crisp white dress featuring a delicate embroidered daisy border. To achieve the professional, high-end finish seen in the photographs, it is essential to buy premium extra-fine merino wool or a high-twist organic cotton blend. When you order specialized knitting tools and purchase artisan-grade amigurumi supplies, the stitch definition for the intricate floral embroidery and the checkered scarf becomes significantly sharper. This project is a rewarding pursuit for any textile artist looking to buy luxury yarns and transform them into a storied work of art that captures the essence of springtime renewal 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.

Required Materials and Specialized Tools

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 the standard, but the choice of fiber determines the longevity of the heirloom.

  • Primary Body Color: 150g of Cream or Off-White DK weight yarn. A blend of wool and silk provides the soft, matte finish seen in the skin of the bunny.
  • Dress Color: 50g of Pure White DK weight yarn.
  • Cardigan & Bonnet Color: 75g of Sage Green or Mossy Mint DK yarn.
  • Scarf Color: 25g each of Sky Blue and White for the checkered gingham pattern.
  • Shoe & Detail Color: 25g of Minty Green or Seafoam.
  • Texture Yarn: 25g of White textured “bouclé” or “sherpa” yarn for the sheep bodies.
  • Embroidery Details: Small amounts of Sunshine Yellow (daisy centers), Leaf Green (stems), Brown (cottage details), and Rose Pink (flowers).
  • Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) and US Size 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circulars for the magic loop method.
  • Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes.
  • Stuffing: High-density polyester fiberfill to ensure the bunny can stand or sit firmly.
  • Notions: One tiny silver bell for the sheep, a sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needles, and stitch markers.

Structural Gauge and Tension

Maintaining a firm gauge is vital for amigurumi-style characters. If the stitches are too loose, the fiberfill will peek through, detracting from the artisan look. For the bunny body, aim for a density where the fabric feels solid. The clothing items are designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form, so checking the fit frequently as you knit the garments is recommended. Always maintain an even tension, especially when transitioning between the skin and the clothing layers.

Bunny Foundation: Leg and Foot 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 seated posture.

Right Leg

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

  1. Rnd 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
  2. Rnd 2: *Knit 2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
  3. Rnd 3-10: Knit every stitch. This builds the rounded volume of the foot.
  4. Rnd 11: Knit 12, (knit 2 together – k2tog) 4 times, knit 12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
  5. Rnd 12: Knit 10, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 10 (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.

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

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 in the next section.

Building the Torso and Hips

Joining the legs correctly determines the bunny’s posture and the width of the hips. Place the legs side-by-side with the toes pointing forward. We will create a bridge of stitches between the legs to give her the wide, rounded hips required for the white dress to sit elegantly.

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 (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.
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 73: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 74-78: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 79: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 80: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 81: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 82: *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 slightly tapered bridge of the nose. This part must be stuffed very firmly to maintain its shape over time, especially since the green bonnet will be placed on top.

The Snout and Face

  1. Rnd 83: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
  2. Rnd 84: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
  3. Rnd 85: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
  4. Rnd 86: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
  5. Rnd 87: *Knit 6, 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 and aligned with the center of the feet.

Closing the Head

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




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Long Upright Ears and Slender Arms

Detailed Ears (Make 2)

The ears are a defining feature, standing tall at the crown. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. Use the ivory 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 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 and sew them to the top of the head at Round 110. They should stand perky and upright.

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 embroidered tote bag. Join ivory yarn in the round on 2.75mm DPNs.

  1. Cast on 10 stitches.
  2. Rnds 1-38: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge.
  3. Rnd 39: *Knit 3, 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 White Daisy Chain Dress

This dress features a wide, flared silhouette that provides an elegant base for the daisy embroidery. We use the white yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.

Knitting the Skirt

Cast on 84 stitches in White. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean hem that won’t roll.
Rnds 7-30: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt.
Rnd 31 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 32: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 33: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 34-45: 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. Slip the dress onto the bunny before moving to the floral embroidery.

Daisy Chain Embroidery Guide

The daisies are positioned along the bottom hem in a continuous chain. Use the leaf green and sunshine yellow yarns with a sharp embroidery needle.
The Vine: Using a stem stitch with green yarn, create a thin line circling the skirt about 1 inch from the hem.
The Daisies: At intervals of 1.5 inches, use the white yarn to create 8 small “lazy daisy” loops for petals. Use the yellow yarn to create a small, textured French knot in the center of each flower. Add small green leaves at the base of each flower along the vine.

The Sage Green Cardigan and Sheep Appliqués

The cardigan is a standout piece worked flat with specific garter stitch borders. The 3D sheep appliqués are added to the front panels after assembly.

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

Using the sage green yarn, cast on 40 stitches. We work this flat on straight needles.
Rows 1-4: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch border).
Row 5 (RS): Knit all stitches, keeping the first and last 3 stitches in garter stitch for the front plackets.
Rows 6-25: Continue in stockinette stitch.
Divide for armholes: Work 9 stitches for the front, bind off 4 stitches, work 14 stitches for the back, bind off 4 stitches, work 9 stitches for the second front. Work these sections separately for 10 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.

3D Spring Lamb Detail

On each front panel of the cardigan, we will add a tiny 3D sheep.
Sheep Body: Using the white textured bouclé yarn, knit a small circle (Cast on 6, kfb to 12, knit 2 rows, bind off).
Sheep Head: Using ivory yarn, knit a tiny oval (Cast on 4, knit 3 rows, bind off).
Sew the white woolly body to the cardigan first, then sew the tiny head onto the body. Use black thread to embroider two tiny dots for eyes. This small detail is essential for a 100% accurate character match.

Woodland Accessories: Bonnet and Scarf

The Sage Green Garden Bonnet

The bonnet frames the bunny’s face and features long ties. Use the sage green yarn.
Cast on 40 stitches.
Rows 1-6: *K1, P1* ribbing for the front border.
Rows 7-25: Work in stockinette stitch.
Row 26: k2tog across (20 sts).
Row 27: p2tog across (10 sts).
Break yarn and pull through the remaining stitches, sewing the back seam halfway up to create the hood shape.
Bonnet Ties: Pick up 3 stitches at each bottom corner and knit an I-cord 10 inches long. Tie under the bunny’s chin in a neat bow.

Blue Gingham Check Scarf

The scarf adds a pop of color and a classic country pattern. Use the sky blue and white yarns.
Cast on 10 stitches. Work in a checkered pattern (Fair Isle technique):
Rows 1-2: *K2 Blue, K2 White* across.
Rows 3-4: *K2 White, K2 Blue* across.
Continue this pattern until the scarf measures 12 inches. Bind off and add small white tassels to the ends. Wrap it loosely around the bunny’s neck over the cardigan.




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Tote Bag, Mary Janes, and Miniature Sheep

Cottage Embroidery Tote

The bunny carries a small bag featuring a miniature house. Use ivory yarn.
Bag Body: Cast on 14 stitches. Work in stockinette for 4 inches. Fold in half and sew side seams. Create two 3-inch I-cords for handles and attach.
Embroidery: Using the embroidery needle, stitch a tiny brown cottage with a red roof. Add two small green trees on either side. This narrative detail makes the bunny look like she is returning from a garden walk.

Minty Green Mary Janes (Make 2)

Using the minty green yarn, cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-4: Knit all stitches. This forms the side of the shoe.
Rnd 11: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
Rnd 12: Bind off 17 stitches.
The Strap: Cast on 10 stitches and bind off immediately. Sew the strap across the top opening of the shoe. Slip onto the feet.

The Miniature Spring Lamb Companion

This tiny pet sits next to the bunny and requires careful assembly.
Body: Using textured yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb (12). Knit 10 rounds. Rnd 11: k2tog around (6). Stuff firmly and close.
Head and Limbs: Using ivory yarn, knit a tiny oval for the head and four tiny I-cords for legs. Sew to the body.
Finishing: Tie a tiny silver bell around the sheep’s neck using a scrap of red thread. The sheep should be plump and stand independently.

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

The character’s personality is brought to life during the final sewing stage. Ensure all parts are aligned perfectly with the reference image. The head should be centered on the neck, and the arms should be positioned high enough to allow the cardigan to sit flat.

Facial Embroidery

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 small and 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 small, circular motion. This adds a youthful, healthy glow that mimics the soft lighting in the photo perfectly.

Dressing the Bunny

Place the white dress on the bunny first, ensuring the daisy embroidery is visible. Layer the sage green cardigan over her shoulders. Secure the Mary Jane shoes on her feet. Position the green bonnet on her head and tie the I-cord strings in a bow. Wrap the blue checkered scarf around her neck. Finally, position the “Cottage” tote bag in her hand and place the miniature fluffy sheep next to her. 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 embroidery, textured yarns, and multiple layers of high-quality knitwear, 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 daisy petals.

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 daisies or the textured sheep appliqués, as this can distort the stitches. 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 dress. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant green and blue 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 scale and detail is a labor of love. Every stitch in the sage cardigan and every petal on the white 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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