The Purple Thistle & Scottie Dog Bunny is a magnificent piece of textile art that brings the rugged charm of the Scottish Highlands into the world of heirloom-quality amigurumi. This sophisticated character features a gentle oatmeal-toned bunny dressed in a breathtaking ensemble: a deep navy skirt adorned with hand-embroidered purple thistles, a traditional red-and-green plaid cardigan with a detailed Scottie dog motif, and a matching tartan tam o’ shanter. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in the inspiration photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist natural fiber that offers superior stitch definition for the intricate colorwork. Many seasoned crafters prefer to order specialized knitting supplies and purchase artisan yarn kits from reputable sources to ensure the autumnal color palette remains rich and authentic. When you shop for luxury knitting needles and buy high-quality craft materials, the sculptural elements of the miniature Scottie companion and the delicate thistle embroidery remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for any fiber artist looking to purchase high-end yarn supplies and transform fine fibers into a storied work of art that celebrates the spirit of adventure and the timeless beauty of heritage craftsmanship.

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 Oatmeal or Heathered Taupe. A natural, high-quality wool blend provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of boutique art dolls.
• Navy Skirt: 75 grams of DK weight yarn in Deep Navy Blue.
• Plaid Garments (Cardigan & Hat): 100 grams of Highland Red DK yarn. Small amounts of Forest Green and Mustard Yellow for the tartan grid.
• Scottie Dog Motif & Companion: 50 grams of DK weight yarn in Jet Black.
• Embroidery Palette:
  • Vibrant Purple: 15g for thistle blossoms.
  • Sage Green: 15g for thistle stems and leaves.
  • Bright Red: 10g for the companion’s collar and bone bow.
  • Soft White: 15g for the knitted bone and sock details.
• Needle Sizes: US Size 2 (2.75mm) for the bunny body and limbs to ensure a tight 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 for the tiny Scottie companion.
• Internal Foundation: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 350 grams).
• Notions: A sharp tapestry needle for assembly, fine embroidery needles for the flower details, stitch markers, and four tiny 4mm brown buttons for the cardigan.

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 stretch. The clothing is designed to fit snugly over the stuffed form; therefore, checking the fit of the cardigan and skirt 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. Avoid using bulky yarns, as they will obscure the delicate embroidery on the skirt.

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 oatmeal-colored 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 navy 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 heavy plaid tam o’ shanter 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 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. 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.

Long Upright Ears and Slender Arms

Detailed Ears (Make 2)

The ears are a defining feature of this bunny, standing tall and slightly pointed at the crown. They are worked flat to provide a slightly concave shape that mimics the internal ear flap. Use the oatmeal 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 1-45: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long, elegant rectangle.
3. Row 46: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, slip-slip-knit (ssk) (10 sts).
4. Row 47: Purl all stitches.
5. Row 48: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
6. Row 49: Purl all stitches.
7. Row 50: 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 stand upright with a natural, alert posture.

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 oatmeal 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 Navy Thistle Garden Skirt

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

Knitting the Dress Skirt

1. Cast on 84 stitches in Navy Blue. 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 oatmeal body during final assembly.

Thistle Embroidery Guide

The thistles are positioned in a row around the entire circumference of the skirt hem. Each flower head is approximately 2 cm wide. Use a fine embroidery needle, vibrant purple wool for petals, and sage green thread for the stems.

• The Stems: Using a stem stitch with green yarn, create short vertical stalks (about 2 cm) rising from the hem. Add two small spiked loops on either side of the stem for leaves.
• The Petals: Use the purple yarn to create a dense cluster of French knots or small straight stitches in a rounded dome shape.
• The Detail: In the center of each flower, create a single tiny white stitch to represent the thistle down. Space these motifs approximately 1.5 inches apart around the entire skirt hem.

The Highland Plaid Cardigan and Scottie Motif

The cardigan is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in rich Highland Red wool. It features a cropped silhouette and a high-relief Scottie dog embroidery on the lower left panel (bunny’s right). This piece is worked from the top down to ensure the shoulders sit perfectly on the bunny’s form.

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

Using the Red yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 40 stitches. We work this piece flat from the top down.

1. Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the collar.
2. Row 5 (RS): Knit 6 (front), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k10 (back), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (raglan), m1, k6 (front).
3. Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
4. Continue increasing at the raglan points every RS row until the piece measures 2.5 inches (6 cm) from the collar.
5. Separate for Sleeves: Place sleeve stitches on scrap yarn. Join the front and back panels to continue the body for 2.5 more inches. Finish with 4 rows of garter stitch and bind off.
6. Sleeves: Pick up the 16 stitches from the scrap yarn. Knit in the round for 18 rounds. Finish with a 3-row garter cuff. Repeat for the second sleeve.

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Plaid Grid and Scottie Embroidery

After the cardigan is knitted, use a tapestry needle to add the tartan grid. Work vertical lines of running stitch in Forest Green and Mustard Yellow through the knitted columns. Repeat horizontally across the rows.
Scottie Dog Detail: On the front panel, use Jet Black yarn to embroider a silhouette of a sitting Scottie dog using a satin stitch. Use a single bright red stitch to represent the dog’s collar. This level of detail is essential for a 100% accurate match to the image theme.

The Plaid Tam o’ Shanter and Black Shoes

The accessories provide the finishing touches to the character’s personality. The hat frames the face with a warm Highland aesthetic, while the shoes ground the outfit in a classic doll style. We use the red-and-green plaid pattern for the hat and charcoal black for the footwear.

Tam o’ Shanter Construction

1. Cast on 48 stitches in Red. Join in the round using 3.25mm needles.
2. Rnds 1-5: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for a firm brim.
3. Round 6: *Kfb, knit 1* repeat around (72 sts). This creates the necessary volume for the flat top.
4. Rounds 7-18: Continue in stockinette stitch, adding the green and yellow plaid grid as you go.
5. Round 19: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
6. Round 20: *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. Add a large, fluffy 2-inch red pom-pom to the center top. The hat should sit casually between her ears.

Black Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the charcoal black 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. Use a scrap of white yarn to embroider “laces” in an X-pattern on the front. Slip onto the bunny’s feet over white socks (simple 5-row white tubes).

Accessories: Handbag and Knitted Bone

Plaid Messenger Handbag

The bunny carries a small bag designed with a matching tartan pattern. Use the red yarn and the 3.25mm needles.

1. Cast on 12 stitches. Work flat in stockinette for 6 inches to create a long rectangle.
2. Add the Forest Green and Mustard Yellow grid using the same embroidery method as the cardigan.
3. Fold the bottom 2.5 inches up to form a pocket and sew the side seams using a mattress stitch.
4. Handle: Knit an 8-inch black I-cord over 3 stitches and sew the ends to the top corners of the bag. Position the bag over the bunny’s shoulder or on the table next to her.

Knitted Bone with Red Bow

This whimsical prop provides a playful touch. Use the soft white yarn.

• The Knobs (Make 4): Cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. kfb to 12. Knit 2 rounds and bind off. Sew two knobs together to form one end. Repeat for the other end.
• The Body: Pick up 10 stitches from the join of the first pair of knobs and knit a 2-inch tube. Sew the second pair of knobs to the other end.
• The Bow: Knit a tiny 2-stitch strip in Red for 3 inches. Tie it into a bow around the middle of the bone.

The Miniature 3D Scottie Dog Companion

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

1. Using Black yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round. kfb into every stitch (12).
2. Knit 12 rounds for the body, slightly widening at the rear.
3. Round 13: *Knit 1, k2tog* around (8). Stuff the body firmly into a rectangular oval.
4. Round 14: k2tog around (4). Pull through to close for the head.
5. Details: Add two tiny black triangles for ears and a short upright tail. For the signature “beard,” use a tapestry needle to add loops of black yarn around the muzzle and trim them to length. Use black thread for the eyes and a small red stitch for the collar. Position the dog sitting next to the bunny’s feet.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The personality of your Purple Thistle & Scottie Dog Bunny emerges during the final assembly. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest. Use dark charcoal embroidery thread to 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, inquisitive expression. Use a single stitch of white yarn at the outer edge of each safety eye to create a “sparkle” effect.

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 perfectly. Dress the bunny in the navy skirt first, then layer the plaid cardigan over the top. Slip the shoes onto the feet and position the tam o’ shanter over her ears. Finally, arrange the handbag, bone, and Scottie companion as shown. Check all seams and hide any loose yarn ends deep inside the body stuffing to ensure a professional finish.

Detailed Cleaning 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 thistle embroidery. 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 thistles on the skirt or the plaid grid on the cardigan, 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. By following these maintenance steps, your creation will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come.

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 red and navy colors over time. You can use a 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 with your fingers to restore her original plump shape and use a small needle to “fluff” the thistle 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. Regularly check the joints of the arms and ears to ensure the yarn remains secure. By following these maintenance steps, your Purple Thistle & Scottie Dog Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come. Every stitch in the plaid cardigan and every embroidered petal on the navy skirt contributes to a narrative of patience and artistic expression. Enjoy the process of bringing this Highland-inspired rabbit to life!

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