The Blue Thistle & Goldfinch Bunny is a masterpiece of textile artistry, designed for those who appreciate the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands and the delicate precision of fine needlework. This character is an heirloom-quality art doll featuring a gentle rabbit crafted in natural taupe wool, dressed in a sophisticated beige dress with a striking blue thistle intarsia centerpiece. Her ensemble is completed with a deep indigo cardigan adorned with a vibrant goldfinch motif and a traditional tartan beret. For enthusiasts who wish to achieve this level of professional detail, it is highly recommended to buy premium merino wool or high-twist alpaca blends, as these fibers provide the necessary stitch definition for the complex floral and bird motifs. When you purchase specialized knitting tools and shop for artisan-grade amigurumi supplies, your finished creation attains a museum-quality finish. This project is a rewarding challenge for any artisan looking to order high-quality yarn and invest their time into creating a storied work of art that captures the essence of wild nature and heritage craftsmanship.
Please note: I strive for accuracy in every pattern, but occasional errors can happen. Thank you for understanding and for enjoying my designs.
Project Requirements and Technical Specifications
Creating a 100% accurate representation of this bunny requires meticulous attention to yarn weights and color palettes. The character relies on a balance between the soft, heathered tones of the rabbit’s skin and the saturated jewel tones of her wardrobe. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer recommends is a professional secret for creating a dense, opaque fabric that keeps the internal fiberfill completely concealed.
- Main Body Yarn: Approximately 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Heathered Taupe. Natural fibers are preferred for a matte, heritage finish.
- Dress Yarn: 100g of DK weight yarn in Sand or Light Beige.
- Cardigan Yarn: 75g of DK weight yarn in Deep Indigo or Navy.
- Tartan & Accessory Palette:
- Purple: 25g (Thistle heads and tartan detail).
- Sage Green: 25g (Thistle leaves and tartan detail).
- Bright Gold: 15g (Goldfinch body).
- Charcoal Black: 20g (Boots and bird details).
- Crimson Red: 10g (Tartan stripe and bird face).
- Pure White: 10g (Bird wings and socks).
- Knitting 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 for the main bunny; 4mm beads for the tiny goldfinch.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 300g).
- Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and two tiny 4mm black buttons for the shoes.
Structural Gauge and Tension Control
Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a high-end heirloom 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 “give” when stretched. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the dress and cardigan against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended to ensure the proportions match the image perfectly. Ensure you maintain an even gauge throughout, especially when transitioning between the body and the clothing items.
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. This bunny is designed with a natural seated posture, so the joint between the legs and torso is specifically shaped.
Right Leg Construction
Using the oatmeal-colored 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: 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).
Rnd 3-10: Knit every stitch across the next eight rounds. This builds the rounded base and sides 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 around.
Rnds 14-45: Continue in stockinette stitch (knit every round) until the leg measures roughly 5.5 inches (14 cm) from the sole. Ensure your tension remains extremely consistent. 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.
Left Leg Construction
Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg. After reaching Round 45, 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 of both legs 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 beige dress to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning over time.
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 47-65: 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: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rnds 67-72: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 73: *Knit 11, 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: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 80-84: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 85: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 86: Knit all stitches around.
Rnd 87: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 88: *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 a wobbly head.
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 heavy tartan beret will be placed on top.
The Snout and Face
Rnd 89: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 90: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 91: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 92: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 93: *Knit 6, 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: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 117: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 118: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 119: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 120: *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 121: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 122: *Knit 1, 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 Floppy 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 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 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 flop naturally backward.
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 thistle accessory. 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: *Knit 3, 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.
📌Thank you for reading the article.
The Highland Thistle Dress
This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with a simple garter stitch hem and a large intarsia thistle motif on the front. We use the light beige yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.
Knitting the Dress Skirt
Cast on 84 stitches in Beige. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean, weighted hem.
Rnds 7-12: Continue in stockinette stitch.
Thistle Motif: Begin the thistle chart on the center front of the skirt. Use Purple for the flower head and Sage Green for the thorny leaves. The thistle should span 22 stitches wide and 18 rows high. Use the intarsia method to keep the fabric thin and flexible.
Rnds 13-30: Continue in beige stockinette after the thistle is complete. The skirt should fall to the bunny’s mid-calf.
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). This gathers the waist perfectly to fit the bunny’s torso. Bind off all stitches loosely.
The Bodice and Finishing
Work the bodice in beige stockinette, dividing for armholes at the sides. Sew the shoulder seams and slip the dress onto the bunny. Use the purple yarn to add tiny French knots to the top of the thistle head to give it a realistic, fuzzy texture.
The Indigo Cardigan and Goldfinch Motif
The cardigan is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in deep indigo. It features a cropped silhouette and high-relief bird embroidery on the right panel.
Cardigan Body and Sleeves
Using the indigo 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 2.5 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.
Goldfinch Embroidery Detail
On the right chest panel of the indigo cardigan, use the gold, black, red, and white yarns. Embroider a tiny sitting goldfinch. Use gold for the body, white for the wing stripe, and black for the cap and tail. A single red stitch at the face completes the classic European Goldfinch look. This detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.
The Tartan Beret and Plaid Bag
Stranded Colorwork Tartan Beret
The hat frames the bunny’s face and provides a splash of traditional Scottish pattern. We use Sage Green, Purple, and Crimson yarns.
Cast on 46 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-5: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing in Purple.
Rnd 6: *Kfb, knit 1* repeat around (69 sts).
Rnds 7-20: Work in the tartan grid. Alternating 2 stitches of Green and 2 stitches of Purple, with a single Crimson stitch every 8 stitches. This creates a small-scale plaid effect.
Rnd 21: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
Rnd 22: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around.
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Fasten off.
Pom-pom: Create a large, multi-colored pom-pom using all three tartan yarns and sew it firmly to the crown of the hat.
Miniature Tartan Messenger Bag
Using the same color pattern as the hat, knit a small rectangle (12 sts x 24 rows). Fold the rectangle in half and sew the side seams to form a pocket. Knit a 12-inch I-cord for the strap and attach to the sides. Use black yarn to embroider two small handles at the top of the bag to match the rectangular tote style seen in the photo.
Accessories: 3D Goldfinch and Thistle Prop
The Miniature 3D Goldfinch Pet
This tiny companion sits on the bunny’s hand and requires careful assembly to achieve its realistic look.
Body: Using gold yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb to 12. Knit 8 rounds. Rnd 9: k2tog around (6). Stuff firmly and close.
Wings & Tail: Knit two tiny black triangles with white edges and sew to the sides.
Face: Embroider a tiny red patch and add 2mm beads for eyes. Position the bird on the bunny’s left hand and secure with a few hidden stitches.
The Hand-held Thistle Flower
The bunny holds a large knitted thistle. Use Sage Green and Purple yarn.
Stem: Knit a 4-inch I-cord in Sage Green using 3 stitches.
Flower Base: kfb into the last 3 sts of the I-cord to get 6 sts. Work 4 rounds of stockinette.
Thistle Head: Join Purple yarn. kfb into every stitch (12). *Kfb, k1* (18). Knit 2 rounds. Rnd 20: k2tog around (9). Stuff lightly. Rnd 21: k3tog around. Close the tip, leaving it slightly fuzzy.
Black Boots and Finishing Touches
Black Lace-up Boots (Make 2)
These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the charcoal black and white yarns.
Cast on 20 stitches in Black. 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 in Black.
Sock Detail: Pick up 17 stitches in White from the top edge. Knit 4 rounds in *K1, P1* ribbing. Bind off. Use a piece of tan thread to embroider “laces” in an ‘X’ pattern on the front. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.
Facial Embroidery and Blush
The character’s personality is brought to life during the final assembly. Use dark brown embroidery thread to stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth centered exactly between the safety eyes. 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.
📌Thank you for reading the article.
Final Assembly and Presentation
The character’s personality emerges during the final assembly. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest. Dress the bunny in the thistle dress first, ensuring the intarsia motif is centered. Layer the indigo cardigan over her shoulders and ensure the embroidered bird is visible. Slip the lace-up boots onto the feet. Position the tartan beret between her ears, allowing it to slouch slightly. Secure the tartan bag over her shoulder. Finally, place the 3D goldfinch on her arm and secure the large thistle flower in her right hand. Check all seams and hide any loose yarn ends deep inside the body stuffing to ensure a professional, clean finish.
Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines
Because this project features intricate embroidery, stranded colorwork, 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 thistle or the goldfinch 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 dress. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the jewel-toned 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 thistle petals or pom-pom become flattened, gently use a small knitting needle to “fluff” the fibers back into their rounded shape. By following these maintenance steps, your Blue Thistle & Goldfinch 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 indigo cardigan and every petal on the thistle 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 highland-inspired rabbit to life!
“`
