The Cosmos Flower & Tabby Cat Bunny is a sophisticated art doll that exemplifies the height of contemporary textile design, merging the softness of high-end wool with the intricate precision of botanical and animal-themed embroidery. This project features a gentle oatmeal-colored rabbit outfitted in a striking deep purple skirt and a soft lilac cardigan. Every element is designed to work in harmony, from the fish-shaped messenger bag to the miniature orange tabby companion. For those looking to achieve this level of professional craftsmanship, it is highly recommended to buy premium merino wool or high-twist organic cotton to ensure every stitch remains crisp and defined. When you purchase specialized knitting tools and buy professional-grade amigurumi supplies, such as high-density fiberfill and secure safety eyes, your finished creation becomes a museum-quality heirloom. This guide provides every technical detail required to order the right materials and transform them into a storied work of art that captures the essence of a tranquil summer garden and the playful spirit of a feline friend.
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 create a replica that mirrors the professional aesthetic seen in the image, selecting the correct fiber weights and textures is the most critical stage. This character relies on the contrast between the natural oatmeal skin and the saturated purples of the wardrobe. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer suggests is a professional secret for creating a dense, opaque fabric that keeps the internal fiberfill completely concealed.
- Main Bunny Body: Approximately 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Light Beige. A natural, high-twist fiber is recommended for a smooth, matte finish.
- Dress and Cardigan Palette:
- Deep Purple (Grape/Plum): 75g for the flared skirt and shoe soles.
- Soft Lilac (Lavender): 75g for the cardigan, headband, and shoe tops.
- Embroidery and Accents:
- Forest Green: 20g for the cosmos stems and leaves.
- Pink and Light Purple: 10g each for the cosmos blossoms.
- Charcoal Grey and Tan: Small amounts for the tabby cat motif on the cardigan.
- Accessories:
- Grey: 25g for the fish messenger bag.
- Vibrant Orange: 25g for the miniature tabby cat companion.
- Cream/White: Small amounts for the cat’s muzzle and the yarn ball prop.
- Knitting Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) and US Size 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needles for the magic loop method.
- Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the main bunny; 4mm black beads or eyes for the tiny cat.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 300g).
- Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and a single tiny 4mm pink button for the cardigan.
Structural Gauge and Technical Abbreviations
Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a heirloom-quality piece. For the bunny’s body, aim for a gauge of approximately 26 stitches and 34 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the 2.75mm needles. The fabric should feel solid and have very little stretch. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the cardigan and skirt against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended.
- 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
Bunny Foundation: Leg and Foot Construction
The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward. This provides the bunny with the stability needed for its upright posture. We work the legs as seamless tubes to avoid bulky side seams that would detract from the professional finish.
The Right Leg
Using the oatmeal yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across your needles and join for working in the round, ensuring the stitches are not twisted. Place a marker at the start of the round.
- Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
- Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
- Rnds 3-10: Knit every stitch. This builds the rounded base and sides of the foot.
- Rnd 11: k12, (k2tog) 4 times, k12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
- Rnd 12: k10, (k2tog) 4 times, k10 (24 sts).
- Rnd 13: Knit all stitches around.
- Rnds 14-48: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 5.5 inches (14 cm) from the sole. 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 spare needle.
The Left Leg
Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg. After reaching Round 48, do not break the yarn. This working yarn will be used to initiate the joining process for the torso in the next section. Ensure the lengths are identical before proceeding.
Building the Plump 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 deep purple skirt to sit elegantly.
Rnd 49 (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 50-65: 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 66: *k12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 67-72: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 73: *k11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnds 74-78: Knit all stitches around. 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 79: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 80-84: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 85: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 86: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 87: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 88: *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 to ensure structural strength and prevent a wobbly head.
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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 headband with floral accents will be placed on top.
The Snout and Face
Rnd 89: *k2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 90: *k3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 91: *k4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 92: *k5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 93: *k6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
Rnds 94-115: 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 104 and 105, 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 116: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 117: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 118: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 119: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 120: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
Begin stuffing the head very firmly at this point. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead. Use small amounts of stuffing at a time to avoid lumps.
Rnd 121: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 122: *k1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Rnd 123: 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 of this bunny, standing tall and slightly pointed at the crown. 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 on two needles.
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, ssk (10 sts).
Row 47: Purl all stitches.
Row 48: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
Row 49: Purl all stitches.
Row 50: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (6 sts).
Bind off all stitches. Make two. Fold the bottom edge of the ear slightly in half to create depth and sew them to the top of the head at Round 118, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright but have the flexibility to frame the lilac headband.
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 yarn ball. Join oatmeal yarn in the round on 2.75mm needles.
- Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
- Rnds 1-42: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
- Rnd 43: *k3, k2tog* repeat (8 sts).
- Rnd 44: k2tog around (4 sts).
Break yarn and pull through. Stuff the hand area (bottom) firmly and the upper arm very lightly. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck line at Round 88.
The Deep Purple Cosmos Dress
This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with a simple rolled hem. The cosmos flower embroidery is the artistic centerpiece of the garment and is added after the knitting is complete. We use the Deep Purple yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.
Knitting the Dress Skirt
Cast on 84 stitches in Deep Purple. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean, weighted hem that won’t curl.
Rnds 7-30: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt, which should fall to the bunny’s mid-calf.
Rnd 31 (Waist Shaping): *k8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 32: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 33: *k3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist perfectly to fit the bunny’s torso. Bind off all stitches loosely.
Cosmos Embroidery Guide
The cosmos flowers are positioned on the bottom left of the skirt. Use a fine embroidery needle, forest green yarn, and pink/lilac scrap yarns.
The Stems: Using a stem stitch or backstitch with green yarn, create three vertical stems of varying heights (approx. 2 inches).
The Petals: To create the cosmos heads, work eight small “lazy daisy” loops in pink or light purple around a central point. Add a tiny yellow French knot in the center of each flower. Ensure the flowers are secured tightly to the purple fabric. Add a few small “lazy daisy” leaves in green at the base of the stems.
The Lilac Tabby Cat Cardigan
The cardigan is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in soft lilac. It features a cropped silhouette and a high-relief tabby cat embroidery on the left panel (bunny’s left).
Cardigan Body and Sleeves
Using the lilac yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 40 stitches. We work this piece flat from the top down.
Rows 1-4: *k1, p1* 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 2.5 inches (6 cm).
Separate for Sleeves: Work the front stitches, place sleeve stitches on scrap yarn, work back stitches, place second sleeve stitches on scrap yarn, work the second front. Continue the body for 2 inches (5 cm). Finish with a garter stitch hem and bind off.
Sleeves: Pick up the stitches from the scrap yarn and work in the round for 18 rounds. Finish with a 3-row garter cuff. Attach the tiny pink button to the front left edge.
Tabby Cat Embroidery Detail
On the left chest panel of the lilac cardigan, use the tan and charcoal grey yarns. Embroider a tiny sitting cat silhouette using a satin stitch for the body and head. Use charcoal grey thread to add tiny horizontal “stripes” along the back and tail to represent a tabby. This detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.
The Grey Fish Messenger Bag and Mary Janes
Grey Fish Bag Construction
This unique accessory is shaped like a small fish. Use the grey yarn and 2.75mm needles.
Bag Body: Cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2: *k1, kfb* (18). Knit 12 rounds in stockinette.
Tail: *k3tog, k3tog* (6 sts). Rnd 14: kfb into every stitch (12). Knit 2 rows and bind off loosely to form a fan shape.
Finishing: Embroider a small eye and a gills line. Knit a 15-inch I-cord for the strap and attach to the fish’s mouth and tail. Drape it across the bunny’s shoulder.
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Lilac Mary Janes (Make 2)
These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the lilac and deep purple yarn.
Cast on 20 stitches with Deep Purple (sole). Join in the round.
Rnd 1-2: Knit all stitches.
Switch to Lilac. Rnd 3-4: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
Rnd 6: Bind off 17 stitches loosely. For the strap, pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.
Headband and Miniature Tabby Companion
Floral Headband
The headband frames the bunny’s face and matches her cardigan. Use the lilac yarn.
Cast on 4 stitches. Work in stockinette for 12 inches (30 cm). Bind off and join the ends to form a circle.
Blossoms: Knit three tiny 3D flowers (Cast on 8, *k1, bind off 1* repeat across, join in a circle). Use pink and purple. Sew them to the right side of the headband. Add small green leaves.
The Miniature Orange Tabby Cat
This tiny pet sits next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic sitting pose.
Body: Using Orange yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb (12). Knit 10 rounds. Rnd 11: k2tog around (6). Stuff firmly and close.
Head: Cast on 6 stitches, increase to 12. Knit 5 rounds. Use a cream thread to embroider a tiny muzzle. Add 4mm black beads for eyes and use charcoal grey for tiny stripes. Close and sew to the body.
Tail: Knit a 2-inch I-cord using 3 stitches. Sew to the rear.
Prop Construction: Ball of Yarn and Face Detail
Knitted Ball of Yarn
Using the cream yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2: *k1, kfb* (18). Rnds 3-8: Knit. Rnd 9: *k1, k2tog* (12). Stuff firmly. Rnd 10: k2tog around (6). Close.
Needle: Take a small bamboo skewer or toothpick and insert it through the ball of yarn to mimic a knitting needle.
Facial Embroidery and Blush
The character’s personality is brought to life during the final 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.
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.
Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines
Because this project features intricate embroidery, multi-layered clothing, and delicate 3D appliques, proper care is essential to preserve its heirloom quality. This bunny is an art doll intended for display rather than rough play, 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 cosmos or the tabby cat motif, as this can distort the stitches. Let the doll soak for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Drying Process: 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 purple and lilac 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.
Long-term Maintenance: 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. If the cosmos blossoms on the dress become flattened, gently use a small knitting needle to “fluff” the loops back into their rounded shape. By following these maintenance steps, your Cosmos Flower & Tabby Cat 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 lilac cardigan and every petal on the purple 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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