The Sea Holly & Puffin Bunny is a masterclass in coastal-inspired textile art, designed for those who appreciate the rugged beauty of the shoreline and the delicate precision of fine-gauge needlework. This heirloom-quality project features a gentle rabbit character crafted in natural oatmeal-toned wool, outfitted in a sophisticated ensemble that tells a story of the North Atlantic coast. Her wardrobe includes a crisp white raglan sweater featuring a detailed puffin motif and a flared turquoise skirt embellished with a geometric sea holly design. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in the photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist cotton-merino blend that offers superior stitch definition. When you purchase specialized amigurumi supplies and shop for professional knitting needles, the silhouette of the puffin and the intricate floral stems remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for those looking to order artisan yarn and invest their creative energy into a piece that will be cherished for many generations as a centerpiece of any collection.

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

To ensure your finished bunny mirrors the professional aesthetic of the inspiration photo, selecting the correct fiber weights is the first and most critical step. This project is optimized for DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn. 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. This ensures the bunny maintains its structural integrity and remains durable over time.

• Main Bunny Body: Approximately 100g of Oatmeal or Warm Taupe DK wool. A natural, high-quality fiber provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of boutique art dolls.
• Sweater: 50g of Pure White or Ivory DK wool.
• Skirt: 50g of Turquoise or Teal DK wool.
• Hat: 25g of Sunny Yellow DK wool.
• Shoes & Puffin Beak: 20g of Bright Orange DK wool.
• Puffin Motif & Companion: Small amounts of Charcoal Black, White, and Orange.
• Sea Holly Embroidery: Small amounts of Deep Blue (flower heads) and Silver-Grey or Beige (stems).
• Market Bag: 20g of Cream or Natural Linen-colored cotton yarn.
• Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) for the bunny body and US Size 3 (3.25mm) for the clothing components.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the bunny; 4mm black beads for the tiny puffin.
• Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 250g-300g).
• Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and two tiny 4mm brown buttons for the shoes.

Structural Gauge and Tension Control

Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a museum-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 “give” when stretched. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the sweater and skirt against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended to ensure the proportions match the image perfectly. Always maintain an even tension, especially when transitioning between the body and the clothing items.

Foundation: Knitting the Bunny Legs

The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward. This provides the bunny with the stability needed for its standing 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. Place a marker at 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 base and sides 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) 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 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 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 turquoise skirt to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning.

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 47-62: 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: *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 shape seen in the image.
Rnd 75: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnds 76-80: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 81: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Rnd 82: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 83: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Rnd 84: *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 characteristic of this heritage design. This part must be stuffed very firmly to maintain its shape over time, especially since the heavy yellow bucket hat will be placed on top.

The Snout and Face

Rnd 85: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
Rnd 86: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 87: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 88: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 89: *Knit 6, 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 centered and level for a balanced, thoughtful gaze.

Closing the Crown

Rnd 111: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Rnd 112: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 113: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rnd 114: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Rnd 115: *Knit 3, 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: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Rnd 117: *Knit 1, 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 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 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 114, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright but have the flexibility to frame the yellow bucket hat.

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.

1. Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rnds 1-40: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
3. Rnd 41: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
4. 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.

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The White Puffin Raglan Sweater

This sweater is the centerpiece of the outfit. It is worked top-down in the round using the soft white wool. The puffin motif is created using the intarsia method or detailed duplicate stitch for absolute precision.

Knitting the Sweater Body

Using White yarn and 3.25mm circular needles, cast on 32 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the neck collar.
Rnds 5: Knit all stitches while placing markers for raglan increases (m1) every second round at four points (Front, Sleeves, Back).
Rnds 6-18: Continue increases until the chest measures wide enough for the bunny’s torso.
Rnd 19: Place sleeve stitches on scrap yarn. Join the front and back panels.
Rnds 20-38: Continue in stockinette. On the front panel, work the Puffin motif. The puffin should have a black back and head, a white belly, and a vibrant orange/red beak. Follow the duplicate stitch technique for the orange feet peeking out at the bottom of the sweater.
Rnd 39-42: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing. Bind off loosely.

Sweater Sleeves

Pick up the 16 stitches from the scrap yarn. Knit in the round in White for 22 rounds. Finish with a 3-row ribbed cuff. Repeat for the second sleeve. The sleeves should be long enough to reach the bunny’s wrists as shown in the image.

The Turquoise Sea Holly Skirt

The skirt features a wide A-line silhouette with a geometric floral motif at the hem. We use the turquoise yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.

Skirt Construction

Cast on 84 stitches in Turquoise. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches for a clean hem.
Rnds 7-28: Continue in stockinette stitch. This forms the main length of the skirt.
Rnd 29: *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Rnd 30: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Rnd 31: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist snugly.
Bind off all stitches. Secure the skirt at the bunny’s waist with hidden stitches into the body skin.

Sea Holly Pattern Detailing

On the bottom third of the skirt, you will add the sea holly motifs. Use the silver-grey yarn to embroider vertical stems. At the top of each stem, use the deep blue yarn to create three small “spiky” blossoms. These can be made with simple straight stitches arranged in a starburst pattern. Space these motifs approximately 2 inches apart around the entire circumference of the skirt.

The Sunny Yellow Bucket Hat and Orange Shoes

Bucket Hat Construction

The hat frames the bunny’s face and coordinates with the bright coastal theme. Use the yellow yarn.
Cast on 48 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches for a rolled/turned-up brim.
Rnds 7-18: Continue in stockinette stitch.
Rnd 19: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rnd 20: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through and fasten off. Place the hat on the bunny’s head, tilting the brim slightly upward as shown.

Orange Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

Using the bright orange 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: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately to create the strap. Sew a tiny 4mm bead or button to the side of the strap. Slip onto the feet.

The Miniature Standalone Puffin Companion

This tiny pet sits next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic, upright posture.

Puffin Body and Head

1. Using White yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb into every stitch (12).
2. Knit 10 rounds, incorporating black yarn on the back half to create the tuxedo effect.
3. Rnd 11: *Knit 1, k2tog* around (8). Stuff firmly.
4. Rnd 12: k2tog around (4). Pull through to close.
5. Beak: Using Orange yarn, cast on 3 stitches. Knit 2 rows and bind off in a point. Sew to the front of the white face area. Use black thread for the eyes.
6. Wings: Knit two tiny black triangles and sew to the sides.
7. Feet: Knit two tiny orange loops and sew to the base so the bird can stand.

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The Coastal Market Bag and Fish Prop

Mesh Tote Bag Construction

The bunny carries a small bag designed with a mesh texture. Use the cream cotton yarn.
Bag Body: Cast on 12 stitches. Work flat in a mesh stitch (Knit 1, Yarn Over, Knit 2 Together) for 32 rows. Fold the bottom 12 rows up to form a pocket and sew the side seams.
Handles: Knit two 5-inch I-cord and sew them to the top edges of the bag. Place several tiny multi-colored spheres inside to represent coastal pebbles or shells.

Knitted Tiny Fish

Using the grey/blue yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round.
Rnds 1-8: Knit all stitches.
Rnd 9: k2tog around (3 sts).
Rnd 10: kfb into every stitch (6 sts). Knit 2 rows and bind off to form the tail fin. Place the fish peeking out of the mesh bag as seen in the photo.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The character’s personality is brought to life during the final assembly. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest.

Nose and Mouth: Using Dark Brown embroidery thread, stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth centered exactly between the safety eyes. The mouth should be small and positioned low to create a sweet, innocent expression.
Cheek Blush: 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.

Dressing and Presentation

Dress the bunny in the turquoise skirt first, pulling it up to the waist. Layer the white puffin sweater over the top, ensuring the sleeves reach the wrists. Slip the orange shoes onto the feet. Position the yellow bucket hat between her ears. Finally, position the mesh market bag over her arm and place the miniature 3D puffin next to her feet. 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 status. 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 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 sea holly or the puffin motif, as this can distort the stitches or cause the bright orange beak to lose its shape. Let the doll soak for 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 skirt. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the vibrant turquoise and yellow colors. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and sweater 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 sea holly petals or puffin wings become flattened, gently use a small knitting needle to “fluff” the fibers back into their rounded shape. By following these maintenance steps, your Sea Holly & Puffin 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 puffin sweater and every petal on the sea holly border 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 coastal rabbit to life!