The Banksia & Platypus Bunny is an exquisite heirloom-quality creation that blends the rugged beauty of the Australian wilderness with the delicate art of fine-gauge knitting. This sophisticated project features a gentle oatmeal-colored rabbit dressed in a rich navy cardigan and a warm cocoa-brown skirt, meticulously adorned with hand-embroidered Banksia blossoms. To achieve the professional, museum-quality finish seen in the photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or high-twist alpaca blends that provide superior stitch definition. When you purchase specialized knitting tools and shop for artisan-grade amigurumi supplies, the intricate platypus motif and the textured wicker basket become centerpiece details of your work. This design is a rewarding pursuit for any textile artist looking to buy luxury yarns and transform them into a storied masterpiece that captures the essence of a tranquil woodland stroll and the unique charm of Australia’s native flora and fauna.
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 Technical Specifications
To ensure your finished bunny mirrors the professional aesthetic of the reference image, selecting the correct fiber weights and needle sizes 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: 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Heathered Taupe. Natural fibers are preferred for a matte, soft finish.
- Cardigan Yarn: 75g of DK weight yarn in Deep Navy or Indigo.
- Skirt Yarn: 75g of DK weight yarn in Cocoa Brown or Dark Tan.
- Hat Yarn: 30g of DK weight yarn in Burnt Orange or Rust.
- Embroidery and Accents:
- Vibrant Orange: 20g for the Banksia flower heads.
- Forest Green: 15g for the Banksia leaves.
- Medium Brown: 25g for the miniature platypus body and boots.
- Light Grey: Small scrap for the platypus bill.
- Knitting Needles: US Size 2.5 (3.0mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the body and US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needles for the larger clothing pieces. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer 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 beads for the tiny platypus.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 300g).
- Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and a single tiny wooden button for the cardigan.
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 horizontal 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 DPNs
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. Check that both legs are identical in length 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 brown 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 a firm tension to ensure the fabric is smooth and dense.
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.
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, slightly elongated dome.
Position 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. 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.
Long Floppy Ears and Slender Arms
Detailed Ears (Make 2)
The ears are a defining feature, standing tall at the crown before showing a natural floppy curve. 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. 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.
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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 2.75mm needles.
- Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
- Rnds 1-40: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge.
- Rnd 41: *k3, k2tog* repeat (8 sts).
- Rnd 42: 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 84.
The Cocoa Banksia Skirt
The skirt features a flared A-line silhouette with intricate hand-embroidered Banksia flowers along the bottom hem. We use the cocoa brown yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.
Knitting the Skirt
Cast on 84 stitches in Cocoa Brown. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean, weighted 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 into the oatmeal body.
Banksia Flower Embroidery Guide
The Banksia flowers are positioned vertically around the hem. Use a fine embroidery needle, vibrant orange yarn, and forest green thread.
The Stems and Leaves: Using a stem stitch with green yarn, create short vertical stems (about 1.5 cm) starting from the hem line. Add 2-3 jagged “lazy daisy” loops on either side of the stem to represent the serrated Banksia leaves.
The Banksia Heads: At the top of each stem, use the orange yarn to create an elongated, textured oval using the bullion knot or a series of tight satin stitches. Each flower head should be approximately 2cm tall. Repeat this process roughly 6-8 times around the skirt circumference for 100% accuracy to the botanical theme.
The Navy Cardigan and Platypus Motif
The cardigan is a cozy outer layer worked flat with specific raglan shaping. It features a hand-embroidered platypus silhouette on the right front panel. Use the navy yarn and 3.25mm needles.
Cardigan Body and Sleeves
Cast on 40 stitches. Work 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: Place sleeve stitches on holders and continue the body for 2 inches. Finish with 4 rows of garter stitch (knit every row) for the hem. Bind off loosely.
Sleeves: Pick up the sleeve stitches and work in the round for 18 rounds. Finish with a 3-row garter cuff. Sew a tiny button to the top front edge.
Platypus Embroidery Detail
On the right front panel of the cardigan, use the medium brown and grey yarns. Embroider a silhouette of a swimming platypus. Start with a brown oval for the body and a smaller brown circle for the head. Add a flat, broad tail at the rear. Use the grey yarn to stitch a distinct “duck bill” on the face. This level of detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.
The Rust Beret and Brown Boots
Beret Construction
The hat frames the bunny’s face and provides a bold splash of color. Use the burnt orange/rust 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. Place the beret on her head, allowing it to slouch slightly to one side.
Brown Lace-up Boots (Make 2)
Using the medium brown 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 loosely.
Finishing: Use a dark brown thread to embroider “laces” in an ‘X’ pattern on the front. Use ivory yarn to knit a 4-row garter stitch “sock” detail peeking out from the top of the boot. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.
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Accessories: Wicker Basket and Miniature Platypus
Textured Wicker Basket
The bunny carries a small textured tote bag. Use the medium brown yarn.
Bag Body: Cast on 14 stitches. Work in a “basketweave” stitch (k2, p2 for 2 rows, then p2, k2 for 2 rows) for 4 inches. Fold in half and sew side seams.
Handle: Create a 3-inch I-cord and attach to the top edges. Place several tiny brown knitted spheres inside to represent Banksia seeds. Position the basket handle over the bunny’s arm.
The Miniature 3D Platypus Companion
This tiny pet perches next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic look.
Body and Head: Using medium brown yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round. kfb into every stitch (12 sts). Knit 10 rounds. Rnd 11: k2tog around (6 sts). Stuff firmly and close.
The Tail: Cast on 6 stitches. Work 6 rows of stockinette. On Row 7, k2tog at each end. Bind off. Sew this flat tail to the rear of the body.
The Bill: Using grey yarn, pick up 4 stitches on the face. Knit 2 rows and bind off. This creates the flat “duck bill.”
Assembly: Add two tiny black bead eyes. Position the platypus standing next to the bunny’s feet as shown in the forest scene.
Final Assembly and Facial Detailing
The character’s personality is brought to life during the final sewing stage. Ensure all parts are aligned perfectly with the reference image. Begin by ensuring the head is centered perfectly on the neck.
Facial Embroidery
Using dark brown embroidery thread, 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. Check all seams for any gaps and ensure all loose yarn ends are woven in deeply so they are hidden within the stuffing.
Dressing the Bunny
Place the cocoa brown skirt on the bunny first, ensuring the Banksia embroidery is centered. Layer the navy cardigan over her shoulders and secure the button. Slip the brown boots onto her feet. Position the rust beret between her ears. Finally, position the wicker basket in her hand and place the miniature platypus by her side.
Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines
Because this project features intricate embroidery, delicate floral work, and multiple layers of high-quality knitwear, proper care is essential to preserve its heirloom status. 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 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 Banksia flowers or the platypus motif, as this can distort the stitches. Let the doll soak for 10-15 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 navy and rust 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 navy cardigan and every embroidered petal on the brown 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 Australian-inspired rabbit to life!
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