The Water Lily Pond Bunny is a sophisticated amigurumi masterpiece designed for those who appreciate the marriage of traditional craftsmanship and the tranquil beauty of a summer garden. This project features a large, expressive rabbit base dressed in a magnificent tiered teal gown, adorned with hand-crocheted water lily blossoms and delicate lily pads. To achieve the high-definition results and crisp stitch definition seen in this character, it is essential to buy premium cotton amigurumi yarn and purchase professional-grade ergonomic crochet hooks. Many dedicated crafters choose to order amigurumi kits and high-quality polyester fiberfill through trusted online platforms like Amazon to ensure their materials meet the standards of heirloom-quality toys. This project is an excellent investment of your artistic time, resulting in a stunning centerpiece that showcases advanced skills in garment construction, three-dimensional shaping, and detailed surface decoration. The inclusion of a miniature turtle companion, a fishing net, and a glowing garden lantern adds a layer of narrative charm, making this a truly complete and magical artistic ensemble.

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

Comprehensive Material List and Preparation

Success in creating a high-end character like the Water Lily Pond Bunny depends on the consistency of your gauge and the quality of your fibers. This design relies on various textures and the layering of garments; therefore, consistency in your yarn weight is vital for ensuring all the clothing pieces fit the body perfectly. We recommend using a Sport weight (Fine #2) or DK weight (Light #3) yarn for a balanced, elegant look. Using the correct tools is the first step toward a professional finish that will last for generations.

• Main Body Yarn: Light Tan or Beige cotton yarn (approx. 150g). A mercerized finish is preferred for stitch clarity.
• Shirt Yarn: Crisp White cotton yarn (approx. 40g).
• Pinafore Dress and Hat Yarn: Deep Teal or Sea Green yarn (approx. 120g).
• Water Lily Accents: Small amounts of Pale Pink, White, and Sun Yellow.
• Leaf and Shoe Accents: Mint Green and Moss Green yarn.
• Turtle Companion: Light Tan (for the head/legs) and Emerald Green (for the shell).
• Accessory Components: Warm Brown yarn for the net handle and lantern frame; Yellow for the lantern glow.
• Crochet Hooks: A 2.25mm hook for the main body and miniature accessories; a 2.75mm hook for the clothing to allow for a softer drape.
• Safety Eyes: 12mm solid black safety eyes for the rabbit and 6mm for the turtle.
• Stuffing: Premium grade, high-density polyester fiberfill.
• Notions: Long tapestry needle for assembly, sharp embroidery needle, stitch markers, and pink cosmetic blush for the cheeks.

Standard Stitch Abbreviations (US Terms)

Maintaining an accurate stitch count is the foundation of a high-quality finish. These instructions utilize standard United States terminology. Please ensure your tension is firm throughout the amigurumi portions to prevent the stuffing from peeking through the fabric. For the clothing, a slightly more relaxed tension is acceptable to facilitate easy dressing of the doll. Read through the instructions for each section before beginning to visualize the construction process.

• MR: Magic Ring (the essential foundation for circular work).
• sc: Single crochet.
• inc: Increase (work two single crochets into the same stitch).
• dec: Invisible decrease (work through the front loops only to reduce bulk).
• hdc: Half double crochet.
• dc: Double crochet.
• tr: Treble crochet.
• sl st: Slip stitch.
• ch: Chain stitch.
• BLO: Back loops only (used for texture or adding garment layers).
• FLO: Front loops only.
• st(s): Stitch or stitches.

Phase 1: The Sculpted Bunny Head

The head is designed as a large, rounded sphere with subtle tapering toward the muzzle to give the bunny a gentle and alert expression. Work in continuous spirals using the Tan yarn and the 2.25mm hook. Use a stitch marker at the start of each round to maintain an accurate count. Shaping the cheeks correctly is the most important part of the character as it dictates the overall personality.

1. Round 1: Start by creating a MR and placing 6 sc into the ring. (6)
2. Round 2: Work 1 inc into every stitch around the circle to double the count. (12)
3. Round 3: Perform a sequence of 1 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (18)
4. Round 4: Perform a sequence of 2 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (24)
5. Round 5: Perform a sequence of 3 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (30)
6. Round 6: Perform a sequence of 4 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (36)
7. Round 7: Perform a sequence of 5 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (42)
8. Round 8: Perform a sequence of 6 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (48)
9. Round 9: Perform a sequence of 7 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (54)
10. Round 10: Perform a sequence of 8 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (60)
11. Round 11: Perform a sequence of 9 single crochet followed by 1 increase, repeated 6 times. (66)
12. Rounds 12-25: Work 1 single crochet in each of the 66 stitches around. This long section builds the vertical height of the face and creates the placement area for the eyes. (66)
13. Round 26: Perform a sequence of 9 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (60)
14. Round 27: Perform a sequence of 8 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (54)
15. Round 28: Perform a sequence of 7 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (48)
16. Placement: Insert the 12mm safety eyes between rounds 18 and 19, leaving approximately 12 stitches of space between them. Ensure they are perfectly level before snapping the backings into place.
17. Round 29: Perform a sequence of 6 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (42)
18. Round 30: Perform a sequence of 5 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (36)
19. Stuffing: Begin stuffing the head firmly. Focus on pushing the fiberfill toward the sides to define the rounded cheeks seen in the image. The center should be firm but not overstretched.
20. Round 31: Perform a sequence of 4 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (30)
21. Round 32: Perform a sequence of 3 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (24)
22. Round 33: Perform a sequence of 2 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (18)
23. Round 34: Perform a sequence of 1 single crochet followed by 1 invisible decrease, repeated 6 times. (12) Finish stuffing.
24. Round 35: Perform 6 invisible decreases to close the base. (6) Fasten off and leave a long tail. Use a tapestry needle to pull the hole closed securely.

Facial Details and Muzzle Sculpting

To achieve the soulful expression of the rabbit, use a long strand of Tan yarn to perform slight eye sculpting. Insert the needle at the base of the head, exit near the inner corner of one eye, re-enter a stitch away, and pull back toward the base. Repeat for the other eye. This creates depth in the sockets. For the nose and mouth, use dark brown thread to embroider a small “Y” shape directly in the center of the face, approximately three rounds below the eyes. Apply pink blush to the cheeks using a soft brush to add a healthy garden glow. Ensure the embroidery is perfectly symmetrical to maintain the character’s alert personality.

Phase 2: Tall Alert Bunny Ears

The ears define the silhouette of the character. They are tall, alert, and slightly tapered at the tips. We work these in continuous spirals using Tan yarn and the 2.25mm hook. Do not stuff the ears to ensure they maintain their flat, elegant profile. Make two identical pieces.

1. Round 1: Start with a MR and work 6 single crochet inside. (6)
2. Round 2: Work 1 increase into every stitch around. (12)
3. Round 3: Perform (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (18)
4. Round 4: Perform (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (24)
5. Rounds 5-15: Work 1 single crochet in each of the 24 stitches around. (24)
6. Round 16: Perform (6 sc, 1 dec) repeat 3 times. (21)
7. Rounds 17-21: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (21)
8. Round 22: Perform (5 sc, 1 dec) repeat 3 times. (18)
9. Rounds 23-27: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (18)
10. Round 28: Perform (4 sc, 1 dec) repeat 3 times. (15)
11. Rounds 29-38: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (15)
12. Flatten the ear and work a round of 7 single crochet through both layers to close the base. Fasten off and leave a long tail for sewing to the top of the head at round 5 during assembly. Using pink blush, lightly shade the inner center of the ear for a realistic touch.

Phase 3: The Sturdy Bunny Torso

The body is shaped to stand stably while providing a solid frame for the heavy tiered clothing. We work from the neck down to ensure a seamless join. Use Tan yarn and maintain firm tension to prevent the body from sagging under the weight of the dress. Ensure the bottom is stuffed heavily to provide a flat base for standing.

1. Round 1: Start with a MR and place 6 single crochet. (6)
2. Round 2: Work 6 increases around. (12)
3. Round 3: Perform (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (18)
4. Round 4: Perform (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (24)
5. Round 5: Perform (3 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (30)
6. Round 6: Perform (4 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (36)
7. Round 7: Perform (5 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (42)
8. Round 8: Perform (6 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (48)
9. Rounds 9-22: Work 1 single crochet in each of the 48 stitches around. (48)
10. Round 23: Perform (5 sc, 1 inc) repeat 8 times. (56)
11. Round 24: Perform (6 sc, 1 inc) repeat 8 times. (64)
12. Rounds 25-45: Work 1 single crochet in each of the 64 stitches around. This builds a wide, stable base. (64)
13. Round 46: Perform (6 sc, 1 invisible decrease) repeat around. (56)
14. Round 47: Perform (5 sc, 1 invisible decrease) repeat around. (48)
15. Round 48: Perform (4 sc, 1 invisible decrease) repeat around. (40)
16. Round 49: Perform (3 sc, 1 invisible decrease) repeat around. (32) Stuff the lower body very firmly.
17. Round 50: Perform (2 sc, 1 invisible decrease) repeat around. (24)
18. Round 51: Perform 12 invisible decreases to close. (12) Fasten off and weave in the tail.

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Phase 4: Slender Bunny Arms and Stable Legs

The limbs of the bunny are long and slender, matching the character’s sophisticated character. Use Tan yarn for all four components. Stuff the hands and feet firmly, but leave the upper halves slightly softer to allow for natural movement against the garments.

Slender Arms (Make 2)

1. Round 1: Start with a MR and place 6 sc. (6)
2. Round 2: Perform (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat 3 times. (9)
3. Round 3: Perform (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat 3 times. (12)
4. Rounds 4-35: Work 1 single crochet in each of the 12 stitches around. (12)
5. Stuff the hand portion (Rounds 1-6) firmly. Flatten the top and work 6 single crochet across both layers to close. Sew to the sides of the torso at Round 6 of the body.

Stable Standing Legs (Make 2)

The legs must be sturdy to support the large character. Use Tan yarn and stuff very firmly as you progress to Round 40.

1. Round 1: Start with a MR and place 6 sc. (6)
2. Round 2: Work 6 increases around. (12)
3. Round 3: Perform (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (18)
4. Round 4: Perform (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat 6 times. (24)
5. Rounds 5-10: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (24)
6. Round 11: Perform 6 single crochet, followed by 6 decreases, then 6 single crochet. (18) This creates the bend for the foot.
7. Rounds 12-40: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (18)
8. Flatten the top and work 9 single crochet across both layers to close. Sew to the bottom sides of the torso so the bunny stands with stability.

Phase 5: The White Collared Shirt

The bunny wears a white under-layer with a Peter Pan collar and short sleeves. Use the White yarn and the 2.75mm hook to ensure the fabric has enough ease to slide over the amigurumi body. This piece is worked in pieces and then assembled on the doll.

Shirt Bodice

1. Row 1: Chain 33. Starting in the second chain from hook, work 32 sc across. Chain 1, turn. (32)
2. Rows 2-10: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch across. (32)
3. Row 11 (Armholes): Work 6 single crochet, chain 10, skip 4 stitches, work 12 single crochet, chain 10, skip 4 stitches, work 6 single crochet.
4. Row 12: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch and each chain space across. (44)
5. Rows 13-15: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch across. Fasten off and leave a tail for joining.

Peter Pan Collar

1. Attach white yarn to the neck edge.
2. Row 1: Work 2 hdc into each stitch across the foundation chain. (approx 60)
3. Row 2: Perform (sl st, chain 2, sl st) in each stitch to create a delicate lace border. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Phase 6: The Tiered Teal Water Lily Dress

The dress is the highlight of the character’s wardrobe, featuring a deep teal color and two overlapping tiers that provide significant volume. Use the Teal yarn and the 2.75mm hook. The dress is worked from the top down.

Pinafore Bodice

1. Row 1: Chain 35. Work 34 single crochet across. (34)
2. Rows 2-10: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch across. (34)
3. Straps: At the front corners, chain 15 and secure to the back waistband to create the pinafore look seen in the image.

The Skirt Tiers

1. Join Teal yarn to the bottom of the bodice. Work in rounds.
2. Round 1: Perform (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (approx. 51 sts)
3. Round 2: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (51)
4. Round 3 (First Tier Foundation): Work in BLO. Perform (2 sc, 1 inc) around. (68)
5. Round 4: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (68)
6. Round 5 (Second Tier Foundation): Work in BLO. Perform (3 sc, 1 inc) around. (85)
7. Rounds 6-25: Work in dc for each stitch around to build the under-layer of the skirt. (85)
8. Tier 1 Construction: Attach Teal yarn to the FLO of Round 3. Work *ch 3, 3 dc in next st, ch 3, sl st in next st* around to create the ruffled petal layer.
9. Tier 2 Construction: Attach Teal yarn to the FLO of Round 5. Repeat the Tier 1 pattern to create the larger, overlapping bottom layer.

Phase 7: Floral Appliqués and 3D Water Lilies

The dress and hat are decorated with intricate water lilies and lily pads. Use Pink, White, and Moss Green yarn. Make 5 large flowers and 3 small buds.

The Water Lily Blossom

1. Round 1: With Sun Yellow, MR 6 single crochet.
2. Round 2: Switch to Pale Pink. Work (ch 4, start in 2nd ch: sl st, sc, hdc. Sl st in next sc of MR) repeat 6 times to create pointed petals.
3. Round 3: Switch to White. Work (ch 5, start in 2nd ch: sl st, sc, hdc, dc. Sl st in the back loops of the pink round) repeat 6 times.
4. Assembly: Sew these flowers onto the skirt tiers. Position them randomly but balanced, as seen in the photo.

Lily Pad Leaves

1. Round 1: With Moss Green, MR 6 single crochet. (6)
2. Round 2: Work 6 increases around. (12)
3. Round 3: Perform (1 sc, 1 inc) around. (18)
4. Shape: Leave a small “v” gap by not joining the last stitch to the first. Fasten off and sew behind the water lily blossoms on the dress.

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Phase 8: The Teal Sun Hat

The hat sits elegantly on the head and features a wide brim decorated with water lily motifs. Use Teal yarn and the 2.75mm hook.

1. Round 1: Start with a MR and place 6 single crochet. (6)
2. Round 2: Work 6 increases around. (12)
3. Round 3: Perform (1 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (18)
4. Round 4: Perform (2 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (24)
5. Round 5: Perform (3 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (30)
6. Round 6: Perform (4 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (36)
7. Round 7: Perform (5 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (42)
8. Round 8: Perform (6 sc, 1 inc) repeat around. (48)
9. Rounds 9-13: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (48)
10. Round 14 (Brim): Work in FLO. Perform (sc 2, inc) repeat around. (64)
11. Round 15: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (64)
12. Round 16: Perform (sc 3, inc) around to increase the flare. (80)
13. Round 17: Work a final round of reverse sc (crab stitch) for a sturdy edge. Fasten off.
14. Decoration: Sew two Pink Water Lilies and one Green Lily Pad to the side of the brim.

Phase 9: Miniature Garden Accessories

The Loyal Pond Turtle

Use Emerald Green and Tan yarn with a 2.25mm hook for this tiny companion.

1. Head/Legs: In Tan, MR 6 sc. R2: 12 sc. R3-4: 12 sc. Fasten off. Make 4 tiny legs (MR 4 sc x 2 rounds).
2. Shell: In Emerald Green, MR 6 sc. R2: 12 sc. R3: 18 sc. R4: 24 sc. R5: 24 sc. Sew to the top of the body.
3. Flower Detail: Create a tiny white 5-petal flower and sew it to the top of the turtle’s shell. Add 6mm eyes and a tiny smile.

Pond Fishing Net

1. Handle: Using Warm Brown, ch 30. Work sc back down the chain. Fasten off.
2. Net Frame: Using Brown, ch 15. Join in a circle and work sc around the loop. Sew to the handle.
3. Net Mesh: Using White yarn, MR 6 sc. Round 1: (ch 2, sc in next) x 6. Round 2: (ch 3, sc in ch-loop) around. Continue for 4 rounds and sew to the frame.

Glowing Garden Lantern

1. Core: In Yellow, MR 6 sc. R2-6: 12 sc. Stuff lightly.
2. Frame: In Warm Brown, MR 6 sc. R2: 12 sc. R3: BLO sc around. R4-7: (ch 3, skip 1, sc in next) around to create windows. R8: sc around to close. Add a wire handle.

Phase 10: Integrated Footwear and Assembly

Teal Buckle Shoes

Make two shoes using Teal yarn. These feature a small buckle detail and a button.

1. Round 1: Chain 7. Start in 2nd ch: 5 single crochet, 3 sc in last chain. Turn to other side: 4 single crochet, 1 increase. (14)
2. Round 2: inc, 4 single crochet, 3 inc, 4 single crochet, 2 inc. (20)
3. Round 3: Work sc in the BLO of each stitch around. (20)
4. Round 4: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch around. (20)
5. Round 5: Work 8 single crochet, 2 invisible decreases, 8 single crochet. (18)
6. Strap: Chain 8 from one side of the shoe opening to the other. Fasten off and sew a tiny pearl or button to the side for the buckle.

Final Assembly and Sculpting Mastery

Assembling the components with precision is what gives the bunny its lifelike quality. Follow these final steps to bring your Water Lily Pond Bunny to life. Consistency in the alignment of the head and ears is the most important factor in capturing the character’s personality.

• Joining the Body: Sew the head firmly to the torso opening. Ensure the neck is stuffed very firmly so the head does not wobble under the weight of the floppy ears and sun hat.
• Ear placement: Pin the long ears to Round 6 of the head. Check from the front to ensure they are symmetrical and centered before sewing them securely. They should hang straight down behind the bunny’s shoulders.
• Dressing: Put the white collared shirt on first. Slide the teal tiered dress onto the bunny, ensuring the straps sit neatly on the shoulders over the white shirt. Put the teal shoes on the feet.
• Styling: Place the sun hat on the head, pulling the floppy ears through the side gaps if you created them, or letting it rest just in front of them.
• Final Touches: Position the fishing net in the bunny’s right hand using a small hidden stitch. Place the glowing lantern and the miniature turtle next to her feet.
• Finishing Polish: Inspect your work for any loose yarn tails. Use your needle to pull any ends deep into the stuffing. Re-apply the pink cheek blush if it has faded during assembly.

Your Water Lily Pond Bunny is now complete! This character serves as a stunning tribute to traditional handcraft and garden aesthetics. Store your finished doll in a dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrancy of the teal and pink hues. We hope you enjoyed the meticulous process of building this character and that she brings a touch of spring magic to your home.

Would you like to learn how to add a small lace edge to the hat brim, or perhaps receive guidance on creating a matching miniature pond display for your bunny to sit near?