The Pink Azalea & White Dove Bunny is a breathtaking heirloom-quality art doll that captures the serene spirit of spring and the timeless message of peace. This sophisticated character features a pure white rabbit meticulously crafted from natural fibers, outfitted in a vibrant magenta flared skirt adorned with hand-embroidered azaleas and a delicate sky-blue capelet featuring miniature dove motifs. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in the photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or high-twist cotton blends that offer superior stitch definition. When you purchase specialized knitting supplies and order artisan yarn online, the intricate details of the floral petals and the sculptural form of the miniature dove companion will remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for any fiber artist looking to buy professional-grade needles and invest their creative energy into a piece that will be cherished for many generations as a centerpiece of any luxury doll 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 Specifications

Selecting the correct fibers and tools is the most critical stage of the process to ensure your finished work mirrors the professional aesthetic of the reference image. 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 Pure White or Soft Ivory. A natural, high-quality wool provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of boutique art dolls.
• Azalea Skirt: 75 grams of DK weight yarn in Deep Magenta or Fuchsia.
• Peace Capelet: 50 grams of DK weight yarn in Sky Blue or Light Cerulean.
• Headwear & Envelope: 50 grams of DK weight yarn in Off-White or Cream.
• Shoes & Embroidery Palette:
  • Medium Pink: 25 grams for shoes and azalea petals.
  • Forest Green: 15 grams for azalea leaves and olive branch.
  • Charcoal Brown: 10 grams for envelope text and facial features.
  • Dark Purple/Black: Small amount for the knitted olives.
  • Pure White: 10 grams for the 3D dove and capelet motifs.
• Specialized Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) for the bunny body and limbs to ensure a tight, durable gauge; US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular or straight needles for the clothing components.
• Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the main bunny; 4mm black beads or embroidery thread for the tiny dove companion.
• Internal Foundation: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 300-350 grams).
• Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needles, stitch markers, and one tiny white 4mm button for the capelet closure.

Structural Gauge and Tension Control

Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a museum-quality piece. For the bunny 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 “give” when stretched. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the skirt and capelet against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended to ensure the proportions match the reference image perfectly.

If you find your knitting is naturally loose, consider dropping down half a needle size to maintain the crisp silhouette of the character. Maintain an even gauge throughout, especially when transitioning between the body and the clothing items. The standing stability of the bunny depends on a firm, dense fabric that resists stretching once stuffed with the fiberfill foundation.

Foundation: Constructing the Standing Legs

The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward to ensure the bunny has 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 when posed.

The Right Leg Architecture

Using the white yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them evenly 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 to track your progression through the row counts.

1. Round 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
2. Round 2: Perform a sequence of *Knit 2, kfb* and repeat from * to the end of the round (32 sts).
3. Rounds 3-10: Knit every stitch across the next eight rounds. This builds the rounded base and the vertical sides of the foot. Maintain a firm tension here.
4. Round 11 (Instep Shaping): Knit 12, then perform the decrease (knit 2 together – k2tog) 4 times in succession, and finish by knitting the remaining 12 stitches (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
5. Round 12: Knit 10, perform (k2tog) 4 times again, and finish with 10 knit stitches (24 sts).
6. Round 13: Knit all stitches around the round. This stabilizes the ankle join.
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. After reaching Round 50 on the second leg, do not break the yarn, as this working yarn will be used to initiate the joining process for the torso in the next section.

Sculpting the Plump Torso and Rounded Hips

Joining the legs correctly is vital for the bunny’s posture and the width of the hips. 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 magenta skirt to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning or sagging over time.

Round 51 (The 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 characteristic of this heirloom design. This part must be stuffed very firmly to maintain its shape over time, especially since the ivory beret 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 Construction

1. Round 93: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
2. Round 94: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
3. Round 95: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Round 96: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
5. Round 97: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts). Establish this as the widest part of the face.
6. Rounds 98-118: Knit every stitch in stockinette straight for twenty-one rounds. 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 level and aligned with the center of the feet for a balanced, thoughtful gaze. Secure the backings firmly before proceeding with the closing rounds.

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Closing the Crown

• Round 119: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
• Round 120: Knit all stitches. This round stabilizes the decrease.
• 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.

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. Break the yarn, leave a long tail, thread through the remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and weave in the end securely inside the head.

Detailed Ears and Slender Arms

Drooping Lop Ears (Make 2)

The ears stand tall at the crown before showing a natural drooping curve. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. Use the white yarn and the 3.0mm needles to allow for a slightly softer fabric than the body.

1. Cast on 12 stitches. Work flat on two needles.
2. Rows 1-50: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long, elegant rectangle.
3. Row 51: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, slip-slip-knit (ssk) (10 sts).
4. Row 52: Purl all stitches.
5. Row 53: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
6. Row 54: Purl all stitches.
7. Row 55: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (6 sts).
8. 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 face.

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 white yarn in the round on the smaller 2.75mm needles.

1. Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-42: Knit all stitches in stockinette for forty-two rounds. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
3. Round 43: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
4. Round 44: k2tog around (4 sts).
5. Break the yarn and pull through the remaining stitches. 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 Magenta Azalea Garden Skirt

This skirt features a classic A-line silhouette with intricate floral embroidery at the hem. The azaleas are the artistic centerpiece of the garment and are added after the base knitting is complete for maximum control over the placement. We use the Magenta yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.

Knitting the Dress Skirt

1. Cast on 84 stitches in Magenta. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This establishes a clean, weighted hem that won’t roll.
3. Rounds 7-35: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt, reaching mid-calf on the rabbit.
4. Round 36 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
5. Round 37: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
6. Round 38: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist snugly to fit the bunny’s torso.
7. Bind off all stitches loosely. Secure the skirt at the bunny’s waist with hidden stitches into the white body during final assembly.

Azalea Embroidery Guide

The flowers are positioned in a row around the entire circumference of the skirt hem. Each flower head is approximately 2.5 cm wide. Use a fine embroidery needle, medium pink wool for petals, and forest green thread for the stems and leaves.

• The Stems: Using a stem stitch with green yarn, create short vertical stalks rising from the hem. Add two small “lazy daisy” loops on either side of the stem for leaves.
• The Petals: Use the pink yarn to create several long straight stitches radiating from a central point. These should be densely packed to mimic the multi-petaled nature of an azalea blossom.
• The Centers: In the center of each flower, create a cluster of tiny white French knots to provide depth and highlight. Space these motifs approximately 1.5 inches apart around the entire skirt hem.

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The Sky Blue Peace Capelet

The capelet is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in soft sky-blue wool. It features a rounded collar and high-relief dove embroidery on both front panels.

Capelet Construction

Using the blue yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. We work this piece flat from the top down.

1. Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the collar.
2. Rows 5-20: Continue in stockinette stitch while performing increases at the edges of every second row to create the flared, cape-like shape.
3. Round the edges by performing decreases for the final three rows.
4. Finish the entire outer edge with a single row of crochet slip stitches or a knitted I-cord bind off for a professional look.
5. Sew a tiny white button at the neck join.

Dove Embroidery Detail

On each front panel of the blue capelet, use the pure white yarn. Embroider a tiny silhouette of a flying dove using a satin stitch for the wings and body. Use a single black stitch for the eye and a tiny brown stitch for the beak. This level of detail is essential for a 100% accurate match to the image theme.

Headwear and Footwear

Ivory Beret Construction

The beret frames the bunny’s face and coordinates with her white fur. Use the off-white yarn and 3.25mm circular needles.

1. Cast on 46 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rnds 1-5: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for a firm brim.
3. Round 6: *Kfb, knit 1* repeat around (69 sts). This creates the necessary volume for the “puffy” beret look.
4. Rounds 7-20: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the height of the hat.
5. Round 21: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
6. Round 22: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around.
7. Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through the remaining stitches and fasten off. Place the beret on her head, allowing it to slouch slightly to one side.

Pink Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

These shoes are separate items that fit over the white feet. Use the pink yarn and 3.0mm needles.

1. Cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rnd 1-4: Knit all stitches. This forms the side of the shoe.
3. Round 5: k7, (k2tog) 3 times, k7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
4. Round 6: Bind off 17 stitches loosely.
5. The Strap: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the shoe and bind off immediately to create the functional strap. Sew a tiny 4mm bead to the side of the strap. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.

Accessories: Good News Envelope and Olive Branch

The character’s story is brought to life through her specialized props. These include a knitted ivory envelope and a textured olive branch.

Knitted “Good News” Envelope

1. Cast on 15 stitches in off-white yarn. Work in stockinette for 6 inches.
2. Fold the bottom 2.5 inches up and sew the side seams.
3. Shape the remaining top portion into a triangular flap by decreasing at the edges.
4. Embroidery: Use charcoal brown thread and a backstitch to embroider the words “GOOD NEWS” on the front center of the envelope. Place the envelope next to the bunny as a prop.

The Olive Branch Prop

Using the forest green yarn and the 2.75mm needles, create a botanical accessory.

• The Stem: Knit a 5-inch I-cord over 3 stitches. Insert a piece of craft wire for flexibility.
• The Leaves: Pick up 3 stitches along the I-cord. Row 1: kfb, k1, kfb. Row 2: Purl. Row 3: k2tog, k1, ssk. Row 4: p3tog. Repeat this 6 times along the stem.
• The Olives: Using dark purple yarn, cast on 4 stitches. Knit into the front and back of every stitch (8). Knit 3 rounds. k2tog around (4). Close. Sew 3 olives to the base of the leaves.

The Miniature 3D White Dove Companion

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

1. Using White yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round. kfb into every stitch (12).
2. Knit 12 rounds for the body, increasing on the sides to create the tail base.
3. Round 13: *Knit 1, k2tog* around (8). Stuff the body firmly.
4. Round 14: k2tog around (4). Pull through to close for the head.
5. The Wings: Knit two tiny triangles (6 sts by 6 rows) in white and sew them to the sides of the body in an upward “flight” position.
6. Details: Use black thread for the eyes and a tiny brown stitch for the beak. Position the dove sitting next to the bunny’s feet.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The personality of your Pink Azalea & White Dove Bunny emerges during the final sewing stage. Ensure all parts are aligned perfectly with the reference image before securing. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest.

Face Detail: Using charcoal brown 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 small, circular motion. This adds a youthful, healthy glow that mimics the soft lighting in the photo perfectly. Dress the bunny in the magenta skirt first, then layer the sky-blue capelet over the top. Slip the pink shoes onto the feet and position the ivory beret between her ears. Finally, arrange the envelope, olive branch, and miniature dove as shown in the composition. Check all seams for any gaps and ensure all loose yarn ends are woven in deeply so they are hidden within the stuffing.

Maintenance and Preservation 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 of the merino fibers and snagging of the delicate flower 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 azaleas on the skirt or the dove motif on the capelet, as this can distort the stitches or cause the vibrant colors to bleed. 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 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 colors over time. 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 with your fingers to restore her original plump shape and use a small needle to “fluff” the flower petals back into their rounded form. By following these maintenance steps, your creation 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 sky-blue capelet and every embroidered petal on the magenta skirt contributes to a narrative of patience and artistic expression. Whether this bunny is intended for a personal collection or as a significant gift for a loved one, the effort and quality materials invested in her creation make her truly priceless. Enjoy the process of bringing this spring-inspired rabbit to life, knowing you have created a piece of art that bridges the gap between traditional craft and contemporary storytelling.

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