The Monstera & Sloth Bunny is a breathtaking heirloom creation that brings the lush tranquility of a tropical garden into the world of amigurumi. This sophisticated project features a gentle oatmeal-colored rabbit dressed in a cream dress adorned with bold dark green Monstera leaf motifs, topped with a cozy sage-green cardigan featuring a tiny sloth companion. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in the inspiration photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist organic cotton blend that offers superior stitch definition. When you purchase specialized knitting tools and shop for luxury yarn supplies, the intricate leaf designs and the character’s expressive face remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for any textile artist looking to order artisan craft materials and transform them into a storied work of art that captures the essence of a serene jungle walk and the slow, peaceful spirit of the sloth.
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
Ensuring that your finished character matches the professional aesthetic of the reference image requires meticulous selection of fiber weights and textures. This project is optimized for DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn, which provides the necessary structural integrity for the bunny’s seated posture while allowing for fine detail in the multi-layered wardrobe. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer suggests is a professional secret for creating a dense fabric that keeps the fiberfill completely concealed.
- Bunny Skin: 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Light Beige. A natural, high-quality fiber provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of boutique art dolls.
- Dress Base: 100g of DK weight yarn in Soft Cream or Ivory.
- Cardigan and Hat: 75g of DK weight yarn in Sage Green or Forest Mist.
- Monstera Leaf Detail: 25g of DK weight yarn in Deep Emerald or Hunter Green.
- Sloth Pet and Companion: Small amounts (20g) of Warm Taupe, Cream, and Dark Brown for the sloth body and facial markings.
- Shoes and Planter: 30g of DK weight yarn in Chestnut Brown or Terracotta.
- 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 for the main bunny; 4mm beads for the tiny sloth.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 250g-300g).
- Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and two tiny 4mm brown wooden buttons for the cardigan and shoes.
- Plant Detail: A small scrap of green felt or a few yards of bright green yarn for the hanging plant.
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 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.
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 signature seated 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 that look elegant when draped over a wooden surface.
Right Leg Construction
Using the oatmeal 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 14-48: Continue in stockinette stitch (knit every round) 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.
Left Leg Construction
Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg. After reaching Round 48, 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 ivory dress to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning over time.
Rnd 49 (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 50-65: 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 sage bucket hat 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 112: 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 and a smooth forehead. 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 Drooping Ears and Slender Arms
Detailed Ears (Make 2)
The ears are a defining feature of this bunny, standing tall at the crown before showing a natural floppy drape. 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 as shown.
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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 1-42: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
- Rnd 43: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (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.
The Ivory Monstera Leaf Dress
This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with a simple rolled hem and large dark green leaf motifs. The Monstera leaves are the artistic centerpiece and are added using the intarsia method or duplicate stitch after the base is complete. We use the Ivory yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.
Knitting the Skirt Base
Cast on 84 stitches in Ivory. Join in the round.
Rnds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean, weighted hem.
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): *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 Monstera Leaf Motif
On the front of the skirt, you will add two large Monstera leaves. Use the emerald green yarn and a tapestry needle. Each leaf should be approximately 18 stitches wide and 20 rows high. Using the duplicate stitch technique, create the iconic heart-shaped silhouette of the Monstera leaf, ensuring you leave the internal “slits” or fenestrations as ivory negative space to mirror the image exactly. Space the leaves centrally on the front panel.
The Bodice and Finishing
Pick up 48 stitches along the bound-off waistline and work upward in stockinette for 15 rows. Divide for armholes and sew the shoulder seams. Slip the finished dress onto the bunny and secure with hidden stitches at the waist.
The Sage Green Cardigan and Sloth Badge
The cardigan is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in sage-green wool. It features a cropped silhouette and a high-relief sloth appliqué on the left panel (bunny’s right).
Cardigan Body and Sleeves
Using the sage green yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 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: Place sleeve stitches on holders and continue the body for 2 inches. Finish with 4 rows of garter stitch and bind off. Pick up sleeve stitches and work in the round for 18 rounds. Finish with a 3-row garter cuff.
Sloth Embroidery Detail
On the right chest panel of the sage cardigan, use the taupe and dark brown yarns. Embroider a tiny hanging sloth silhouette using a satin stitch for the body and long vertical stitches for the arms. Use dark brown thread for the signature eye patches and charcoal for the claws. This detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.
The Sage Green Bucket Hat and Loafers
Bucket Hat Construction
The hat frames the bunny’s face and coordinates with the cardigan. Use the sage green 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.
Rnd 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.
Brown Loafer Shoes (Make 2)
Using the chestnut brown 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 loosely. Use the needle to join the gap and slip onto the bunny’s feet.
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Accessories: Hanging Planter and Miniature Sloth
Knitted Macrame Planter
The bunny holds a small terracotta-colored pot suspended by cream cords. Use the chestnut brown and cream yarn.
Pot Body: Using brown yarn, cast on 10 stitches. Join in round. kfb into every stitch (20). Knit 12 rounds. Rnd 13: k2tog around (10). Stuff firmly and close.
Macrame Hanger: Using the cream yarn, cut four 10-inch strands. Tie them together at the bottom. Position the brown pot in the center and tie the strands at the top of the pot to secure it. Braid the remaining cord for the handle. Place a tiny cluster of green yarn “leaves” peeking out of the top of the pot.
The Miniature 3D Sloth Pet
This tiny companion perches next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic look.
Body: Using taupe yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb to 12. Knit 10 rounds. Rnd 11: k2tog around (6). Stuff firmly and close.
Face: Use cream yarn to knit a tiny oval and sew it to the head. Embroider dark brown eye patches and a tiny nose.
Limbs: Knit four 1-inch I-cords for the arms and legs. Sew them to the body so the sloth can “hug” its small green felt leaf. Position the sloth sitting next to the bunny’s leg.
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. Begin by ensuring the head is centered perfectly on the neck.
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 on the face 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 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.
Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines
Because this project features intricate embroidery, delicate 3D appliques, 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 Monstera leaves or the sloth 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 green 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 sage cardigan and every emerald green 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 tropical garden rabbit to life!
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