The Pink Gerbera & Poodle Bunny is a sophisticated example of modern heirloom knitting, blending vibrant colors with intricate textures to create a truly museum-quality art doll. This character features a soft, oatmeal-toned rabbit dressed in a chartreuse lime dress adorned with hand-knitted pink gerbera daisies, a cozy rose-pink cardigan with a detailed poodle patch, and a classic summer sun hat. To achieve the professional results seen in the photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or high-twist organic cotton blends, as these fibers provide the necessary stitch definition for the detailed flower petals. When you purchase specific knitting needles and order luxury yarn supplies for this project, you ensure that the finished work maintains its structural integrity and soft, tactile appeal. This design is a rewarding journey for any artisan looking to buy high-quality craft materials and transform them into a storied masterpiece that captures the elegance of a spring garden.

Please note: I strive for accuracy in every pattern, but occasional errors can happen. Thank you for understanding and for enjoying my designs.

Materials and Technical Specifications

Selecting the correct fiber is the most critical stage of this project. To ensure your bunny matches the 100% accurate look of the inspiration photo, use a DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn for the bunny and clothing. 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: 150g of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Sand.
• Dress: 75g of DK weight yarn in Lime Green/Chartreuse.
• Cardigan & Vanity Case: 100g of DK weight yarn in Rose Pink.
• Hat, Mirror Frame, & Poodle: 100g of DK weight yarn in Soft White or Ivory.
• Gerbera Petals & Shoes: 50g of DK weight yarn in Bright Pink.
• Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) and US Size 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) and circular needles.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes.
• Stuffing: 300g of high-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, embroidery needle, stitch markers, and two 4mm buttons for the shoes.

The Rabbit Head

The head is worked in the round from the nose toward the back to allow for precise eye placement. We aim for a rounded, slightly elongated shape that suggests a gentle personality.

1. Round 1: Using Oatmeal yarn and 2.75mm DPNs, cast on 6 sts. Join in the round.
2. Round 2: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch (12 sts).
3. Round 3: *K1, kfb* repeat around (18 sts).
4. Round 4: *K2, kfb* repeat around (24 sts).
5. Round 5: *K3, kfb* repeat around (30 sts).
6. Round 6: *K4, kfb* repeat around (36 sts).
7. Round 7: *K5, kfb* repeat around (42 sts).
8. Round 8: *K6, kfb* repeat around (48 sts).
9. Rounds 9-20: Knit all stitches. This establishes the main volume of the face.
10. Round 21: *K6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
11. Round 22: Knit all stitches.
12. Round 23: *K5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).

Insert safety eyes between Rounds 14 and 15, spacing them approximately 10 stitches apart. Ensure they are level. Stuff the nose area firmly.

1. Round 24: *K4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
2. Round 25: *K3, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
3. Round 26: *K2, k2tog* repeat around (18 sts).
4. Round 27: *K1, k2tog* repeat around (12 sts).
5. Round 28: K2tog around (6 sts).

Finish stuffing firmly, ensuring the cheeks are symmetrical. Break yarn and pull through remaining loops to close.

The Long Rabbit Ears

These ears are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics natural rabbit anatomy. They are designed to be long and floppy.

Using Oatmeal yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 12 sts.

• Rows 1-40: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS).
• Row 41: K2tog, K to last 2 sts, SSK (10 sts).
• Row 42: Purl all stitches.
• Row 43: K2tog, K to last 2 sts, SSK (8 sts).
• Row 44: Purl all.
• Row 45: K2tog, K to last 2 sts, SSK (6 sts).
• Row 46: Bind off all stitches.

Make two. Fold the bottom edge in half and sew to the top of the head at Round 24. They should sit close together at the crown.

Slender Rabbit Body

The body is worked from the neck down to the hips. It requires a firm structure to support the layers of clothing.

1. Round 1: Cast on 24 sts in Oatmeal and join in the round.
2. Round 2: *K3, kfb* repeat around (30 sts).
3. Round 3: *K4, kfb* repeat around (36 sts).
4. Rounds 4-20: Knit all stitches.
5. Round 21: *K5, kfb* repeat around (42 sts).
6. Round 22: *K6, kfb* repeat around (48 sts).
7. Rounds 23-35: Knit all stitches. This builds the rounded belly and hip area.
8. Round 36: *K6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
9. Round 37: *K5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
10. Round 38: *K4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
11. Round 39: *K3, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
12. Round 40: *K2, k2tog* repeat around (18 sts).
13. Round 41: *K1, k2tog* repeat around (12 sts).
14. Round 42: K2tog around (6 sts).

Stuff very firmly. The neck area needs extra stuffing to prevent the head from wobbling. Use a mattress stitch to join the head to the neck opening.

Arms and Legs

The limbs are worked as tubes. The legs are slightly thicker and longer to give the bunny a stable standing appearance.

Legs (Make 2)

1. Round 1: Cast on 14 sts in Oatmeal. Join in the round.
2. Round 2: Kfb every stitch (28 sts).
3. Round 3-10: Knit straight for the foot height.
4. Round 11: K10, (K2tog) 4 times, K10 (24 sts).
5. Round 12: K8, (K2tog) 4 times, K8 (20 sts).
6. Rounds 13-40: Knit straight in stockinette.

Stuff the foot very firmly and the leg moderately. Sew to the bottom of the body, ensuring the toes point forward.

Arms (Make 2)

1. Round 1: Cast on 10 sts in Oatmeal. Join in the round.
2. Round 2: Kfb every stitch (20 sts).
3. Rounds 3-38: Knit straight.
4. Round 39: K2tog around (10 sts).

Stuff the hand area and lower arm. Leave the upper half of the arm empty of stuffing so it hangs naturally at the bunny’s side. Sew to the shoulders.

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The Chartreuse Gerbera Dress

This A-line dress features large pink gerbera motifs on the skirt hem. We use the intarsia technique or duplicate stitch for the flowers.

Skirt Construction

Using Lime Green yarn and 3.25mm circular needles, cast on 84 sts. Join in the round.

1. Rounds 1-6: Knit all stitches (this forms the hem edge).
2. Rounds 7-30: Continue in stockinette. On the front panel, work the pink gerbera motifs. Each flower consists of 12 petals radiating from a brown center.
3. Round 31 (Waist Shaping): *K6, k2tog* repeat around (73 sts).
4. Round 32: *K5, k2tog* repeat around (63 sts).
5. Round 33: *K4, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
6. Rounds 34-45: Knit the bodice straight.
7. Round 46: Bind off 4 sts for each armhole, work front and back flat.

Knit the straps by picking up 4 sts at each shoulder and working in garter stitch for 12 rows. Secure at the back.

The Rose Pink Poodle Cardigan

This cozy layer is worked flat from the top down. It features a cropped length and full sleeves.

Cardigan Body

Using Rose Pink and 3.25mm needles, cast on 30 sts. Work flat.

• Rows 1-4: K1, P1 ribbing.
• Row 5 (Raglan Increase): K4, YO, K1, YO, K5, YO, K1, YO, K8, YO, K1, YO, K5, YO, K1, YO, K4.
• Repeat increases every RS row until the yoke is 2.5 inches deep.
• Separate for sleeves: Place sleeve sts on holders. Continue body for 2 inches.
• Bottom Hem: 4 rows of ribbing and bind off.

Poodle Patch Embroidery

On the right front panel of the cardigan, use Soft White yarn to embroider a silhouette of a poodle head. Use a series of tiny French knots to create the “fluffy” look of the poodle’s hair on the top of the head and the ears. Use a single black stitch for the eye and nose.

The Summer Sun Hat

The hat frames the bunny’s face and has a wide, sturdy brim to mimic the straw hats seen in high-end garden fashion.

1. Round 1: Using White yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 6 sts. Join in the round.
2. Round 2: Kfb around (12 sts).
3. Round 3: *K1, kfb* (18 sts).
4. Round 4: *K2, kfb* (24 sts).
5. Round 5: *K3, kfb* (30 sts).
6. Round 6: *K4, kfb* (36 sts).
7. Round 7: *K5, kfb* (42 sts).
8. Round 8: *K6, kfb* (48 sts).
9. Rounds 9-18: Knit straight. This forms the crown.
10. Round 19 (Brim Increase): Kfb in every stitch around (96 sts).
11. Rounds 20-25: Knit straight in garter stitch (K1 round, P1 round) to prevent the brim from curling.
12. Round 26: Bind off loosely.

Pink Mary Jane Shoes

These shoes complete the outfit. They are worked from the sole upward.

1. Cast on 10 sts in Bright Pink.
2. Row 1-8: Work in garter stitch (this is the rectangular sole).
3. Pick up 30 stitches around the edge of the sole. Join in the round.
4. Rounds 1-4: Knit all stitches.
5. Round 5: K10, (K2tog) 5 times, K10 (25 sts).
6. Round 6: Bind off.

Pick up 10 sts across the top of the shoe and work 2 rows of garter stitch to form the strap. Sew a tiny button to the side.

The Miniature White Poodle Pet

This is a 3D accessory that perches next to the bunny. We use the “Loop Stitch” to create the iconic poodle texture on specific parts of the body.

Body and Head

1. Body: Cast on 10 sts in White. Join in round. Kfb to 20. Knit 15 rounds straight using Loop Stitch. Stuff and close.
2. Head: Cast on 6 sts. Kfb to 12. Knit 4 rounds straight using Loop Stitch. Stuff and close. Sew to body.
3. Legs: Cast on 6 sts. Knit 6 rounds straight in stockinette. For the “pompom” at the bottom, work 2 rounds of Loop Stitch. Bind off. Make 4.
4. Tail: Cast on 4 sts. Knit 4 rounds straight. At the tip, work 3 rounds of Loop Stitch. Bind off.

Sew the legs and tail to the body. Embroider two tiny black eyes and a black nose on the face area where the loops are most dense.

The Pink Vanity Case

This structured trunk is worked in several pieces and then seamed to give it a rigid shape. It acts as a storage box for the bunny’s accessories.

Main Trunk Body

1. Cast on 20 sts in Rose Pink. Work in garter stitch for 40 rows. This forms the bottom, front, and back panels.
2. Cast on 12 sts. Work in garter stitch for 12 rows. This forms the side panels. Make two.
3. Lid: Cast on 20 sts. Work 15 rows of garter stitch.
4. Assembly: Sew the side panels to the main trunk body. Attach the lid to the back panel.
5. Handle: Knit a 3-stitch I-cord for 3 inches. Sew to the center of the lid.
6. Closure: Sew a single white button to the front panel and create a loop on the lid edge.

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The Hand Mirror Accessory

The mirror is a delicate prop that requires careful tension. It uses a cream frame and a flat circular section.

• Frame: Cast on 3 sts in White yarn. Work an I-cord for 4 inches. Join the ends to form a circle.
• Mirror Handle: Pick up 4 sts from the join of the circle and work 1.5 inches in stockinette. Round off the end and sew closed.
• Mirror Surface: Cast on 6 sts in White (or a silver yarn if you have it). Kfb to 12. Knit 1 round and bind off. Sew this circle inside the I-cord frame.

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.

Facial Embroidery

Using dark charcoal 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. 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 gerbera flowers are centered on the front. Layer the rose pink cardigan over her shoulders. Slip the pink Mary Jane shoes onto her feet. Position the summer sun hat between her ears. Finally, position the vanity case and the hand mirror on the surface next to her, and place the miniature poodle at her feet.

Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Because this project features intricate embroidery, delicate loop stitches, 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 wool detergent. Submerge the bunny slowly, avoiding aggressive scrubbing. Do not scrub the embroidered gerbera daisies or the poodle loops, as this can distort the stitches or flatten the texture. 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 and pink colors. You can use a specialized 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 rose pink cardigan and every embroidered petal on the chartreuse 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!

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