The Pussy Willow & Grey Squirrel Bunny is an exquisite heirloom-quality creation that brings the quiet elegance of late winter and early spring into your home. This sophisticated amigurumi project features a gentle oatmeal-colored rabbit dressed in a serene sky-blue dress adorned with delicate pussy willow branches and a cozy silver-grey cardigan featuring hidden squirrel surprises. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in the image, it is essential to buy premium merino wool that provides crisp stitch definition for the intricate floral embroidery. Many collectors prefer to purchase high-quality knitting needles and specialized yarn kits to ensure the muted woodland palette remains harmonious. When you order luxury craft supplies for this design, you are investing in a piece that will be cherished as a masterpiece for generations. This project offers a rewarding challenge for intermediate and advanced knitters, focusing on sculptural shaping, stranded colorwork, and delicate surface embroidery that captures the spirit of the forest.

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 ensure your finished bunny matches the professional aesthetic of the reference image, selecting the correct fiber weights and high-quality notions is paramount. This project is optimized for DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn, which provides the necessary structure for the bunny’s standing pose while allowing for fine detail in the clothing and accessories.

• Main Body Yarn: 100g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Light Taupe. A natural, slightly heathered fiber provides a soft, matte finish.
• Wardrobe Selection:
  • Sky Blue: 50g for the flared skirt.
  • Silver Grey: 50g for the cardigan and beret.
  • White/Cream: 25g for the Mary Jane shoes and pussy willow “buds.”
  • Tan/Camel: 30g for the woven basket and scarf accents.
• Embroidery and Accents:
  • Medium Grey and Charcoal: For the squirrel motifs and branch details.
  • Brown: For the acorns and facial features.
  • Soft Blue and White: For the checkered scarf.
• Knitting Needles: US Size 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) and US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needles for the garments. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn suggests creates a dense fabric that keeps the fiberfill concealed.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the main bunny; 4mm black beads for the tiny squirrel.
• Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 250g).
• Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and four tiny 4mm wooden buttons for the cardigan and shoes.

Standard Abbreviations and Technical Key

• 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 by lifting the bar between stitches (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 to ensure the bunny has the structural integrity to support the heavy knitted layers of her wardrobe. We work the legs as seamless tubes for a professional, clean finish.

The Right Leg

Using the oatmeal yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across three needles and join for working in the round. Place a marker at the start of the round.

Rnd 1: kfb in every stitch around (24 sts).
Rnd 2: *k2, kfb* repeat around (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.
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. 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 as the right leg. After reaching Round 45, do not break the yarn. This working yarn will be used to initiate the body join in the next section.

Building the 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 sky-blue skirt 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 even tension for a smooth skin texture.
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 lower 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 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 characteristic of this heritage design. This part must be stuffed very firmly to maintain its shape over time.

The Snout and Face

Rnd 85: *k2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 86: *k3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 87: *k4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 88: *k5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 89: *k6, 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 dome.
Insert the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 100 and 101, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level and aligned with the center of the feet for a balanced, thoughtful gaze.

Closing the Crown

Rnd 111: *k6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 112: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 113: *k5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 114: *k4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 115: *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 116: *k2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 117: *k1, 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.

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Long Upright Ears and Slender Arms

Detailed Ears (Make 2)

The ears are long and stand tall with a slight natural curve. They are worked flat and then sewn to the crown 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 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 them 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 accessories. Join oatmeal yarn in the round on DPNs.

Cast on 10 stitches.
Rnds 1-40: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
Rnd 41: *k3, 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 Sky-Blue Pussy Willow Skirt

The skirt features a flared A-line silhouette with hand-embroidered pussy willow sprigs along the bottom hem. We use the sky-blue yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.

Knitting the Skirt

Cast on 84 stitches in Sky Blue. 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, 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).
Bind off all stitches loosely. Place the skirt on the bunny, pulling it over the legs and securing it at the waistline with hidden stitches.

Pussy Willow Embroidery Guide

The embroidery is the artistic centerpiece. Use a fine needle, medium grey yarn for branches, and white/cream yarn for the “pussy” buds.
The Branches: Using a stem stitch with grey yarn, create several vertical branches (about 1.5 – 2 inches long) starting from the hem line. Angle them slightly for a natural look.
The Buds: Along each branch, create small clusters of tiny French knots or bullion knots using the white/cream yarn. These should be spaced about 1/2 inch apart on either side of the grey branch. This detail must be repeated around the entire circumference for 100% accuracy.

The Silver-Grey Cardigan and Squirrel Motif

The cardigan is a cozy outer layer worked flat with specific raglan shaping. It features two functional pockets on the front with hand-embroidered squirrel motifs peeking out.

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

Using the silver-grey 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 inches (5 cm).
Separate for Sleeves: Place sleeve stitches on scrap yarn and continue the body for 2 inches. Finish with 4 rows of ribbing and bind off.
Sleeves: Pick up the sleeve stitches and work in the round for 18 rounds. Finish with a 3-row ribbed cuff. Repeat for the second sleeve.

Squirrel Pocket Embroidery

On each front panel of the cardigan, we will create a pocket look.
Pocket Detail: Use charcoal grey yarn to embroider a tiny rectangle (approx. 1cm square) to represent the pocket. Inside the top of the pocket, use the duplicate stitch or satin stitch to create a tiny grey squirrel head with pointed ears. Use black thread for a tiny eye. This small detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.

The Grey Beret and Mary Jane Shoes

The Knitted Beret

The hat is a classic rounded design that sits snugly between the bunny’s ears. Use the silver-grey yarn.
Cast on 46 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnd 1-5: *k1, p1* ribbing.
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. Place the beret on her head, tilting it slightly to one side.

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White Mary Janes (Make 2)

Using white yarn and 3.0mm needles, 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 white bead or button to the side of the strap. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.

The Woven Basket and Scarf Accessory

Tan Wicker-Style Basket

Using tan yarn, we will create a small textured bag.
Base: Cast on 6, kfb to 12, *k1, kfb* to 18.
Sides: Rnds 1-12: Work in “linen stitch” (k1, slip 1 with yarn in front) to mimic wicker weaving.
Handle: Knit a 6-inch I-cord and attach to the top edges. Fill the basket with tiny dark brown balls (cast on 6, kfb to 12, knit 2 rows, k2tog to 6) to represent acorns.

Checkered Woodland Scarf

The scarf adds a splash of classic country pattern. Use the blue, white, and tan yarns.
Cast on 8 stitches. Work in a plaid or gingham pattern using the Fair Isle technique (alternating 2 stitches of each color). Continue until the scarf measures 10 inches. Add small tassels to the ends. Wrap it loosely around the bunny’s neck over the cardigan.

The Miniature Grey Squirrel Companion

This tiny pet perches next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic sitting pose.

Body and Head: Using grey yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. Rnd 1: kfb (12). Rnd 2-8: Knit. Rnd 9: *k1, k2tog* (8). Stuff firmly. Rnd 10: k2tog around (4). Close to form the nose.
The Tail: Using a fuzzy grey yarn or the main grey yarn with a “brushed” effect, knit a 4-inch I-cord. Curl it upward in a “S” shape and sew it firmly to the back of the squirrel’s body.
Details: Use black thread to embroider tiny eyes. Knit a tiny brown ball (acorn) and sew it between the squirrel’s front paws. Position the squirrel next to the bunny’s feet.

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 nose should be level with the bottom of the eyes. Keep the stitches small and tight for a delicate look.

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.

Dressing the Bunny: Place the sky-blue skirt on the bunny first, followed by the grey cardigan. Secure the buttons. Slip the Mary Jane shoes onto the feet. Position the beret between her ears. Tie the checkered scarf around her neck and place the wicker basket over her arm. Finally, position the miniature squirrel 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, 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 and should be handled with care to prevent pilling or snagging of the merino fibers.

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 pussy willow or the tiny squirrel, as this can distort the stitches or cause the grey squirrel’s tail to lose its fluff. 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 blue and grey 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 silver cardigan and every bud on the blue skirt 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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