The Lily of the Valley & White Dove Bunny is an exquisite heirloom-quality creation that represents the pinnacle of contemporary amigurumi design. This sophisticated character features a gentle oatmeal-colored rabbit outfitted in a vibrant lime-green dress adorned with delicate hand-knitted floral motifs and a pristine white capelet. To achieve the professional, museum-grade finish seen in the photographs, it is vital to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist cotton-merino blend that offers superior stitch definition. When you purchase specialized amigurumi kits and shop for luxury yarn supplies, the intricate bells of the lily and the graceful silhouette of the dove remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for any textile artist looking to order artisan knitting materials and invest their creative energy into a masterpiece that captures the essence of springtime renewal and the timeless charm of nature’s smallest companions. Each stitch contributes to a storied work of art that will be cherished for generations to come.
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 a 100% accurate reproduction of this character requires specific attention to fiber weights and color palettes. The character relies on the interplay between the neutral tones of the rabbit and the fresh, botanical greens and whites 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.
- Main Body Yarn: Approximately 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Soft Beige. A natural, high-twist fiber is recommended for a smooth finish.
- Dress Yarn: 100g of DK weight yarn in Lime Green or Spring Meadow Green.
- Capelet, Bonnet, and Dove Yarn: 75g of DK weight yarn in Crisp White or Soft Ivory.
- Flower Detail Yarn: 25g of DK weight yarn in Forest Green (stems) and a small amount of White for the floral bells.
- Accessory Yarn: 20g of DK weight yarn in Light Tan or Sand for the drawstring bag.
- 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; 2mm black beads or embroidery thread for the dove eyes.
- Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 300g).
- Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and small white pearl beads for the drawstring bag.
- Wreath Base: A flexible craft wire or a stiffened I-cord in Forest Green.
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. This prevents the white stuffing from becoming visible when the limbs are posed. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the dress and capelet 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: 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).
Round 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 lime green 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 characteristic of the “Nano Banana Pro” style. This part must be stuffed very firmly to maintain its shape over time, especially since the lace bonnet 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 Drooping Lop Ears and Slender Arms
The ears are a defining feature, standing tall at the crown before showing a natural drooping drape. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. The arms are slender to ensure the white capelet sits properly over the shoulders.
Detailed Ears (Make 2)
Using 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 hang down naturally on either side of the head.
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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 drawstring bag. 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 Lily of the Valley Lime Dress
This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with a simple garter stitch hem. The floral colorwork is the artistic centerpiece of the garment and is achieved using a combination of intarsia and surface embroidery. We use the Lime Green yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.
Knitting the Dress Skirt
Cast on 84 stitches in Lime Green. 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. At Round 15, begin the colorwork for the Lily of the Valley stems.
Floral Stems: Join the Forest Green yarn. Using the intarsia method or duplicate stitch later, create three long, arching green stems spaced evenly around the front of the skirt. The stems should reach from Round 10 up to the waistline at Round 35.
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.
Lily Bell Embroidery Guide
The tiny white bells are added after the skirt is complete. Use a fine embroidery needle and white wool yarn.
The Bells: Along each Forest Green stem, work 4 to 5 small “bullion knots” or “lazy daisy” loops in white. These should hang downwards from the arch of the stem to mimic the real flower. Add a tiny green leaf at the base of each bell cluster using a single long satin stitch. This detail must be repeated on all stems for 100% accuracy.
The Pristine White Capelet and Dove Motif
The capelet is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in crisp white wool. It features a decorative bow closure and high-relief bird embroidery on both front panels.
Capelet Construction
Using the white yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 60 stitches. We work this piece flat from the top down.
Rows 1-4: Knit every row for a garter stitch collar.
Row 5 (RS): Knit 10, m1, k1 (marker), m1, k10, m1, k1 (marker), m1, k16, m1, k1 (marker), m1, k10, m1, k1 (marker), m1, k10. (68 sts).
Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
Continue increasing at the marker points every RS row for 12 more rows. This creates a wide, circular drape that rests over the bunny’s shoulders. Bind off all stitches loosely. Using a crochet hook or knitting needles, create two 10-inch I-cord ties and sew them to the neck corners. Tie them in a generous bow under the chin.
Dove Silhouette Embroidery Detail
On each front panel of the white capelet, use the light tan or soft grey yarn. Embroider a tiny flying bird silhouette using a satin stitch for the body and a fanned-out split stitch for the wings. The birds should be angled as if they are flying toward the center of the bunny’s chest. This small detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.
The Lace Bonnet and Mary Jane Shoes
The accessories provide the finishing touches to the character’s personality. The bonnet frames the face with a delicate scalloped edge, while the shoes ground the outfit in a classic doll aesthetic.
Scalloped White Bonnet
Using the white yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 40 stitches. Work in stockinette stitch for 4 inches. To create the lace edge seen in the image:
On the front edge, work a row of (Knit 1, Yarn Over, Knit 2 Together) to create eyelets. Then, work a row of shells: *In next stitch work (sc, dc, tr, dc, sc), skip 1* repeat across. This creates the pretty scalloped border. Sew the back seam of the bonnet to form a hood and place it over the bunny’s ears.
White Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)
These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the white yarn and 3.0mm needles.
Cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
Round 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. This creates the functional strap. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.
Accessories: Drawstring Bag, Wreath, and Dove
Pearl Beaded Drawstring Bag
Using the tan yarn, we will create a small textured pouch.
Bag Body: Cast on 10 stitches. Join in round. kfb into every stitch (20). Knit 12 rounds. Eyelet Round: *K1, YO, k2tog* around. Knit 2 more rounds and bind off.
Finishing: Thread a white yarn string through the eyelets. Sew small white pearl beads in a random pattern across the surface of the bag. Place the bag in the bunny’s left hand.
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The Green Leaf Wreath
The bunny holds a small circular wreath. Using the Forest Green yarn, knit a 6-inch I-cord over 3 stitches. Thread a flexible craft wire through the I-cord and join the ends to form a circle. Using the embroidery needle, add small “lazy daisy” loops in green all around the wreath to represent dense foliage. Place this wreath over the bunny’s right arm.
The Miniature 3D White Dove
This tiny companion perches on the wreath and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic look.
Body and Head: Using white yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round. kfb into every stitch (12 sts). Knit 8 rounds. Round 9: k2tog around (6 sts). Stuff firmly and close to a point at the tail.
Wings: Knit two tiny triangles (4 sts wide, 4 rows high) and sew to the sides of the body.
Assembly: Add two tiny black bead eyes and a tiny beige stitch for the beak. Position the dove perching on the green wreath.
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. Use dark brown embroidery thread to 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. 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 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 lime green dress on the bunny first, ensuring the Lily of the Valley embroidery is centered. Layer the white capelet over her shoulders and tie the bow. Slip the Mary Jane shoes onto the feet. Position the lace bonnet over the head, allowing the long lop ears to hang naturally beneath it. Finally, position the drawstring bag in her hand and secure the wreath and dove on her other arm.
Detailed Cleaning and Care Guidelines
Because this project features intricate embroidery, multi-layered clothing, and delicate 3D appliques like the white dove, 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 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 lily bells or the white dove, as this can distort the stitches or cause the bird to lose its shape. 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 lime green 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. If the floral bells or the dove wings become flattened, gently use a small knitting needle to “fluff” the fibers back into their rounded shape. By following these maintenance steps, your Lily of the Valley & White Dove 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 lime dress and every pearl on the drawstring bag 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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