The English Ivy & Wren Bunny is a breathtaking heirloom art doll that brings the quiet elegance of a misty morning in a British garden right to your crafting room. This character features a slender oatmeal-colored rabbit outfitted in a sophisticated ensemble: a cream-colored flared skirt adorned with trailing ivy embroidery, a rustic copper-toned sleeveless vest with a detailed bird motif, and a striking deep blue bucket hat. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in the photographs, it is vital to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist cotton-merino blend. Many collectors prefer to purchase specialized amigurumi kits and shop for luxury yarn supplies to ensure the stitch definition remains crisp for the intricate vine work. This project is a rewarding journey for any textile artist looking to order artisan knitting materials and transform them into a storied work of art that captures the essence of heritage craftsmanship and the timeless charm of nature’s smallest companions.
Please note: I strive for accuracy in every pattern, but occasional errors can happen. Thank you for understanding and for enjoying my designs.
Required Materials and Technical Specifications
Creating an accurate reproduction of this character requires specific fiber weights and high-quality tools. The character relies on the interplay between the neutral tones of the rabbit and the saturated jewel tones 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.
- Bunny Skin: 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Heathered Taupe. Natural, matte fibers are preferred for an authentic look.
- Dress Yarn: 100g of DK weight yarn in Soft Cream or Off-White.
- Vest & Shoes Yarn: 75g of DK weight yarn in Rust, Copper, or Burnt Orange.
- Hat Yarn: 30g of DK weight yarn in Deep Blue or Indigo.
- Embroidery & Detail Yarns:
- Forest Green (Ivy leaves).
- Charcoal Brown (Vines and facial features).
- Light Tan and White (Wren bird details).
- Bright Yellow (Lantern light).
- Knitting Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) for the bunny body and US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needles for the clothing components.
- Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 300g).
- Notions: Three tiny 4mm brown buttons for the vest, two small buttons for the shoes, a copper wire or small prop for the key, and a tapestry needle.
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 vest against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended to ensure the proportions match the image perfectly. Maintain an even gauge throughout, especially when transitioning between the body and the clothing items.
The Foundation: Constructing 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 tall, 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 long, slender limbs characteristic of classic woodland characters.
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.
Round 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
Round 2: *Knit 2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
Rounds 3-10: Knit every stitch across the next eight rounds. This builds the rounded base and sides of the foot.
Round 11: Knit 12, (knit 2 together – k2tog) 4 times, knit 12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
Round 12: Knit 10, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 10 (24 sts).
Round 13: Knit all stitches around.
Rounds 14-50: Continue in stockinette stitch (knit every round) until the leg measures roughly 6 inches (15 cm) from the sole. Ensure your tension remains extremely consistent to avoid any visible “jog” in the stitches. 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 50, 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 cream skirt to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning.
Round 51 (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).
Rounds 52-70: 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.
Round 71: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
Rounds 72-76: Knit all stitches around.
Round 77: *Knit 11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Rounds 78-82: 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.
Round 83: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
Rounds 84-88: Knit all stitches around.
Round 89: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
Round 90: Knit all stitches around.
Round 91: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
Round 92: *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 blue bucket hat will be placed on top.
The Snout and Face
Round 93: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
Round 94: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
Round 95: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
Round 96: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
Round 97: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
Rounds 98-118: 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 108 and 109, 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
Round 119: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
Round 120: Knit all stitches.
Round 121: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
Round 122: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
Round 123: *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.
Round 124: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
Round 125: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
Round 126: 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, 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. Fold the bottom edge of the ear slightly in half to create depth and sew them to the top of the head at Round 122, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should stand upright but have the flexibility to frame the hat later.
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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 the copper key. 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.
- Round 43: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
- Round 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 92.
The English Ivy Cream Dress
This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with a simple garter stitch hem. The ivy embroidery is the artistic centerpiece of the garment and is added after the knitting is complete. We use the Cream yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.
Knitting the Dress Skirt
Cast on 84 stitches in Cream. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean, weighted hem that won’t curl.
Rnds 7-35: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt, which should fall to the bunny’s mid-calf.
Round 36 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Round 37: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Round 38: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist perfectly to fit the bunny’s torso. Bind off all stitches loosely.
Ivy Vine Embroidery Guide
The ivy vines are positioned in a wandering trail around the entire circumference of the skirt hem. Use a fine embroidery needle, forest green yarn, and charcoal brown thread.
The Vines: Using a stem stitch with charcoal brown yarn, create three long, curved vines that wrap around the lower half of the skirt. The vines should loop and overlap organically.
The Leaves: Using the forest green yarn, work small heart-shaped leaves along the vines. Each leaf is made of two small diagonal satin stitches. Space the leaves approximately 1 inch apart for a lush, garden-grown effect.
The Rust Sleeveless Vest and Wren Motif
The vest is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in rich rust-colored wool. It features a high-relief bird embroidery on the right panel (bunny’s left).
Vest Construction
Using the rust yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. We work this piece flat from the bottom up.
Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the bottom hem.
Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch. At Row 12, perform decreases at the armhole edges: Bind off 3 sts at the start of the next two rows.
Rows 21-32: Continue in stockinette on the remaining 38 stitches. Work the front and back separately after Row 24 to create the neck opening. Bind off and sew the shoulder seams. The vest should be worn open with three tiny buttons secured down the left placket for decorative purposes.
Wren Embroidery Detail
On the right chest panel of the rust vest, use the tan, charcoal, and white yarns. Embroider a tiny sitting bird silhouette using a satin stitch for the body and a long vertical stitch for the tail. Use white thread for a tiny “eyebrow” line and charcoal for the beak. This detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.
The Deep Blue Hat and Rust Mary Janes
Bucket Hat Construction
The hat frames the bunny’s face and coordinates with the deep indigo tones of the forest. Use the deep blue yarn and 3.25mm needles.
Cast on 48 stitches. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This forms the rolled brim.
Rnds 7-18: Continue in stockinette stitch. This forms the side walls of the hat.
Round 19: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through the remaining stitches and fasten off. The hat should sit snugly between the ears, pushed back slightly on the forehead.
Rust Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)
These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the rust 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.
Round 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
Round 6: Bind off 17 stitches loosely.
The Strap: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately. Sew a tiny decorative button to the side of the strap for a boutique look. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.
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Accessories: Lantern, Key, and 3D Wren
The Knitted Lantern
The bunny carries a small lantern to light her way. Use charcoal brown and bright yellow yarn.
Lantern Body: Cast on 10 stitches. Join in round. kfb into every stitch (20). Knit 4 rounds in brown. Switch to yellow. Knit 8 rounds. Switch back to brown. Knit 4 rounds. Rnd 17: k2tog around (10). Stuff firmly and close.
Frame: Using the embroidery needle and brown yarn, stitch vertical lines over the yellow section to represent the lantern cage. Knit a 2-inch I-cord for the handle and attach to the top.
The Copper Key
This accessory can be a found object or knitted.
To Knit: Using rust yarn, knit a 2-inch I-cord. For the “teeth” of the key, pick up 3 stitches at one end and knit 2 rows before binding off. For the handle, create a small loop with the other end of the I-cord. Place this in the bunny’s right hand.
The Miniature 3D Wren Pet
This tiny companion sits on the bunny’s shoulder and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic look.
Body: Using tan yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb to 12. Knit 10 rounds. Rnd 11: k2tog around (6). Stuff firmly and close.
Head: Cast on 6 stitches, increase to 8. Knit 3 rounds and close to a point for the beak. Sew two tiny white dots for eyes.
Tail & Wings: Knit three tiny triangles (4 sts x 4 rows) and sew to the rear and sides. Position the bird on the bunny’s left shoulder and secure with a hidden stitch.
Final Assembly and Facial Expression
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. Use charcoal brown embroidery thread to stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth centered exactly between the safety eyes. The mouth 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.
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 the Bunny: Place the cream dress on the bunny first, ensuring the ivy embroidery is centered. Layer the rust vest over her shoulders. Slip the Mary Jane shoes onto the feet. Position the blue hat between her ears. Finally, position the lantern in her left hand and the copper key in her right hand. 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 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 ivy or the tiny wren, 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 rust and blue colors. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and wardrobe feeling exceptionally soft. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing to restore her original plump shape.
Long-term Preservation: 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. By following these maintenance steps, your English Ivy & Wren 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 rust vest and every heart-shaped leaf on the 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!
