The Waratah & Wallaby Bunny is an exquisite piece of textile art that brings the vibrant energy of the Australian bush into the world of heirloom-quality amigurumi. This sophisticated character features a gentle oatmeal-toned bunny dressed in a rich forest-green dress adorned with striking red Waratah blossoms, a rustic brown vest with a hidden pocket, and a crimson bucket hat. 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 professional knitting kits and shop for luxury yarn supplies, the intricate floral motifs and the sculptural form of the tiny wallaby companion remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for those looking to order artisan yarn supplies online 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.

Required Materials and Technical Standards

To ensure your finished bunny mirrors the professional aesthetic of the reference image, selecting the correct fiber weights is the most critical stage. This project is optimized for DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn, which provides the necessary structural integrity for the bunny’s standing pose 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, opaque fabric that keeps the internal fiberfill completely concealed.

• Main Bunny Body: Approximately 150 grams of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Heathered Taupe. A natural, high-quality wool blend provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of boutique art dolls.
• The Waratah Dress: 100 grams of DK weight yarn in Forest Green or Deep Emerald.
• The Outback Vest: 75 grams of DK weight yarn in Earth Brown or Chocolate.
• The Crimson Hat: 25 grams of Bright Red or Scarlet wool.
• The Australia Bag: 25 grams of Dusty Blue or Indigo cotton yarn.
• Embroidery & Accessory Palette:
  • Vibrant Red: 20g for Waratah petals.
  • Sage Green: 15g for eucalyptus leaves.
  • Light Tan: 15g for the miniature wallaby companion.
  • Charcoal Black: 10g for shoes and facial features.
  • Assorted Scraps: Yellow, Orange, and Dark Brown for the bag map and details.
• Needle Sizes: 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 black beads for the tiny wallaby.
• Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 300g).
• Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needle, stitch markers, and two tiny wooden buttons for the vest.

Structural Gauge and Tension Control

Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a museum-quality piece. For the bunny’s skin, 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 stretch. 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.

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 upright standing 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 and realistic.

The Right Leg Architecture

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.

1. Round 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
2. Round 2: *Knit 2, kfb* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
3. Rounds 3-10: Knit every stitch across the next eight rounds. This builds the rounded base and sides of the foot.
4. Round 11: Knit 12, (knit 2 together – k2tog) 4 times, knit 12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
5. Round 12: Knit 10, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 10 (24 sts).
6. Round 13: Knit all stitches around the round.
7. 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. The leg should be stuffed moderately as you move upward to allow for a natural flexibility at the hip join. Leave these stitches on a holder or spare needle. Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg to create the left leg. 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 bridge of stitches between the legs to give her the wide, rounded hips required for the forest-green dress to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning over time.

Round 51 (Joining Round): 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). Join to work in a large circle.

• Rounds 52-70: Knit every stitch in the round for nineteen rounds. This section establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Maintain a firm tension to ensure the fabric is smooth and dense.
• Round 71: Perform a decrease round by knitting *12, k2tog* and repeat around (52 sts).
• Rounds 72-76: Knit all stitches around without further decreases.
• Round 77: *Knit 11, k2tog* and 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 red bucket hat will be placed on top. The head and body are worked as one piece in this style to eliminate the need for a neck seam.

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 dome.

Position the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 108 and 109, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level and aligned with the center of the feet for a balanced, thoughtful gaze. Secure the backings firmly.

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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).
• Round 124: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
• Round 125: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
• Round 126: k2tog around until 8 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through the remaining stitches and pull tight to close.

Long Pointed Ears and Slender Arms

The ears are a defining feature, standing tall at the crown. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. The arms are slender to ensure the brown vest 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.

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 eucalyptus sprig. Join oatmeal yarn in the round on 2.75mm needles.

1. Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-42: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge.
3. Round 43: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
4. 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 Forest Green Waratah Dress

This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with intricate red Waratah flower motifs at the hem. We use the forest-green yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape. This garment is worked from the bottom up.

Knitting the Skirt

Cast on 84 stitches in Green. 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, reaching mid-calf on the rabbit.
Round 31 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
Round 32: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
Round 33: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist perfectly to fit the bunny’s torso. Bind off all stitches loosely.

Waratah Embroidery Guide

The flowers are positioned in a row around the entire circumference of the skirt hem. Each flower head is approximately 3cm wide. Use a fine embroidery needle, vibrant red wool, and sage green thread.
The Stems: Using a stem stitch with green yarn, create short vertical stalks rising from the hem.
The Petals: Using red yarn, work a series of densely packed bullion knots or lazy daisy loops in a circular burst pattern. The center should be raised to mimic the texture of a real Waratah. Space these motifs approximately 2 inches apart around the entire circumference of the skirt.

The Brown Outback Vest and Wallaby Pouch

The vest is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in rich earth-brown wool. It features a cropped silhouette and a high-relief wallaby appliqué on the right panel (bunny’s left).

Vest Construction

Using the brown 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.

Wallaby Pocket Embroidery

On the right chest panel of the brown vest, use the tan and charcoal yarns. Embroider a tiny silhouette of a wallaby head peeking out of a small knitted flap. Use a satin stitch for the wallaby body and a single black stitch for the eye. This level of detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.

The Crimson Red Bucket Hat and Brown Boots

Crimson Bucket Hat Construction

The hat frames the bunny’s face and coordinates with the Waratah flowers. Use the red 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.

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Brown Lace-up Boots (Make 2)

Using the charcoal 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.
Round 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
Round 6: Bind off 17 stitches loosely. Use the needle to join the gap and slip onto the bunny’s feet. Use a scrap of tan yarn to embroider “laces” in an X-pattern on the front of each boot.

Accessories: Australian Map Bag and Eucalyptus

The Blue Messenger Bag

The bunny carries a small bag featuring a map of Australia. Use the dusty blue yarn.
Bag Body: Cast on 12 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 6 inches. Fold the bottom 2.5 inches up to form a pocket and sew side seams.
Map Embroidery: On the front flap, use tan and brown yarn to embroider the rough shape of the Australian continent using a small satin stitch. Use green to mark Tasmania. Add a long I-cord strap and drape over the bunny’s shoulder.

Knitted Eucalyptus Sprig

The bunny holds a branch of silver gum. Use sage green yarn and 2.75mm needles.
Stem: Knit a 3-inch I-cord over 3 stitches.
Leaves: Along the I-cord, pick up 3 stitches and knit a tiny oval (inc to 5, dec to 1). Repeat this 4 times to create a cluster of leaves. Position the sprig in the bunny’s right hand and secure with a hidden stitch.

The Miniature 3D Wallaby Companion

This tiny pet perches next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic, upright sitting posture. It is worked in one piece for the head and body.

1. Using Tan yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round. kfb into every stitch (12).
2. Knit 12 rounds for the body, increasing on the front to create a belly.
3. Round 13: *Knit 1, k2tog* around (8). Stuff the body firmly.
4. Round 14: k2tog around (4). Pull through to close.
5. The Tail: Knit a 3-inch thick I-cord in tan and sew to the rear, ensuring it is thick at the base to provide balance.
6. Details: Add tiny pointed ears and use black thread for eyes. Position the wallaby sitting faithfully next to the bunny’s feet.

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 perfectly aligned with the center of the chest.

Face Detail: 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 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. Dress the bunny in the green dress first, then layer the brown vest over the top. Slip the brown boots onto the feet and position the red hat between her ears. Finally, position the blue bag over her shoulder and place the eucalyptus sprig in her hand.

Maintenance and Professional Cleaning

Because this project features intricate embroidery, multi-layered clothing, 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 of the merino fibers and snagging of the red Waratah petals. Regular maintenance will ensure she remains as beautiful as the day you finished her.

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 specifically for wool or fine fibers. Submerge the bunny slowly, avoiding any aggressive scrubbing or agitation. Do not scrub the embroidered Waratahs on the skirt or the wallaby motif on the vest, as this can distort the stitches or cause the vibrant red colors to bleed into the green. Let the doll soak for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.

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 red and green colors over time. You can use a fabric softener in the final rinse if you wish to keep the skin and vest feeling exceptionally soft. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing with your fingers to restore her original plump shape and use a small needle to “fluff” the Waratah petals back into their rounded form.

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 Waratah & Wallaby Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come. Every stitch in the outback vest and every petal on the flower border contributes to a narrative of patience and artistic expression. Enjoy the process of bringing this Australian-inspired rabbit to life!

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