The Cherry Blossom & Panda Bunny is a breathtaking artisan masterpiece that captures the poetic transition of a Kyoto spring within the intricate loops of fine needlework. This sophisticated design features a gentle tan-toned rabbit with expressive floppy ears, dressed in a soft blossom-pink A-line dress and a striking jet-black panda-themed vest. To achieve the professional, high-definition finish seen in these heirloom photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist cotton-merino blend that offers superior stitch definition for the detailed surface embroidery. Many seasoned collectors prefer to purchase specialized knitting kits and shop for professional-grade needles to ensure the delicate Sakura blossoms and the tiny 3D panda companion remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project represents a rewarding journey for those looking to order luxury yarn supplies online and invest their creative energy into a piece that will be cherished for generations as a centerpiece of any boutique 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.

Technical Requirements and Material List

Selecting the correct fibers and high-quality 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 120 grams of DK weight wool in Tan or Light Oatmeal. A natural, high-quality wool provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of heirloom dolls.
• Spring Dress: 60 grams of DK weight yarn in Blossom Pink.
• Panda Vest: 40 grams of DK weight yarn in Jet Black.
• Panda Details & Beret: 40 grams of DK weight yarn in Pure White.
• Accessory Palette:
  • Cocoa Brown: 25 grams for the bear-shaped crossbody bag and facial embroidery.
  • Leaf Green: 15 grams for the bamboo stalk and flower leaves.
  • Charcoal Black: 15 grams for the panda companion’s limbs and Mary Jane shoes.
  • Medium Pink: Small amounts for flower centers and the beret motifs.
• Specialized Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the bunny body and 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 panda pet.
• Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 350 grams).
• Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needles, stitch markers, and two tiny 4mm brown buttons for the shoes.

Establishing Gauge and Tension

Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a museum-quality piece. For the bunny frame, 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 vest 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.

Constructing the Standing Legs

The construction begins at the base of the feet and moves upward. This provides the bunny with the stability needed for its signature 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.

Right Leg Architecture

Using the tan yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them across three needles and join for working in the round. Place a marker at the start of the round.

• Round 1: Increase into every stitch (24 sts).
• Round 2: *Knit 2, increase in next stitch* repeat from * to end of round (32 sts).
• Rounds 3-12: Knit all stitches. This builds the rounded base and vertical sides of the foot. Maintain a firm tension.
• Round 13: Knit 12, (knit 2 together) 4 times, knit 12 (28 sts). This shaping creates the instep of the rabbit’s foot.
• Round 14: Knit 10, (knit 2 together) 4 times, knit 10 (24 sts).
• Round 15: Knit all stitches around. This stabilizes the ankle.
• Rounds 16-55: Continue in stockinette stitch 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.

Left Leg Architecture

Repeat the exact instructions provided for the right leg. After reaching Round 55 on the second leg, do not break the yarn. This working yarn will be used to initiate the joining process for the torso in the next section. Check that both legs are identical in length before proceeding to the body join.

Sculpting the Torso and 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 pink dress to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning over time.

Round 56 (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 57-75: Knit every stitch in the round. This section establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Maintain a firm tension to ensure the fabric is smooth and dense.
• Round 76: Perform a decrease round by knitting *12, k2tog* and repeat around (52 sts).
• Rounds 77-82: Knit all stitches around without further decreases.
• Round 83: *Knit 11, k2tog* and repeat around (48 sts).
• Rounds 84-88: 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.
• Round 89: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
• Rounds 90-94: Knit all stitches around.
• Round 95: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
• Round 96: Knit all stitches around.
• Round 97: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
• Round 98: *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.

The 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 white 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.

• Round 99: *Knit 2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
• Round 100: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
• Round 101: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
• Round 102: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
• Round 103: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
• Rounds 104-125: Knit all stitches in stockinette. This vertical growth creates the volume of the face and forehead. It should look like a rounded dome.

Position the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 114 and 115, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level and aligned with the center of the feet for a balanced gaze. Secure the backings firmly before proceeding with the closing rounds.

• Round 126: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
• Round 127: Knit all stitches.
• Round 128: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
• Round 129: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
• Round 130: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
• Round 131: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
• Round 132: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
• Round 133: k2tog around (8 sts).

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.

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Long Drooping Ears and Slender Arms

Detailed Floppy 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. The ears are a defining feature, and their relaxed nature is essential for the character’s sweet expression. Use the tan yarn and 3.0mm needles.

1. Cast on 12 stitches. Work flat on two needles.
2. Rows 1-60: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit on RS, Purl on WS). This creates a long rectangle.
3. Row 61: Decrease at both ends (10 sts).
4. Row 62: Purl all stitches.
5. Row 63: Decrease at both ends (8 sts).
6. Row 64: Purl all stitches.
7. Row 65: Decrease at both ends (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 130, spacing them about 4 stitches apart. They should hang down naturally as shown.

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 bamboo stalk. Join tan yarn in the round on 2.75mm dpns.

1. Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-45: Knit all stitches in stockinette. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the body.
3. Round 46: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat (8 sts).
4. Round 47: k2tog around (4 sts).
5. Break yarn and pull through. Stuff the hand area firmly and the upper arm very lightly. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck line at Round 98.

The Blossom Pink Dress

This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with intricate floral embroidery at the chest. We use the pink yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape. This garment is worked from the bottom up to ensure the flared hem sits perfectly on the bunny’s form.

Knitting the Skirt

1. Cast on 84 stitches in Blossom Pink. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-4: Knit all stitches.
3. Rounds 5-8: Purl all stitches. This creates the textural banded detail seen at the bottom of the dress.
4. Rounds 9-35: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt, reaching mid-calf on the rabbit.
5. Round 36 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
6. Round 37: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
7. Round 38: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts). This gathers the waist snugly.
8. Bind off all stitches loosely. Pick up 48 stitches along the bound-off waist and work the bodice upward in stockinette for 12 rounds before binding off for armholes. Secure the dress on the bunny with hidden stitches.

Sakura Embroidery Guide

The flowers are positioned in a cluster on the front center of the bodice. Use a fine embroidery needle, white wool for petals, and medium pink for the centers.

• The Stems: Using a stem stitch with brown yarn, create a small branching structure on the bodice.
• The Petals: Use the white yarn to create five-petaled starburst shapes using simple straight stitches. Arrange 3-5 flowers in a cluster.
• The Centers: In the center of each flower, create a single pink French knot to provide depth. This level of detail is essential for a museum-quality finish.

The Jet Black Panda Vest

The utility vest is worked flat in rich black wool. It features a cropped silhouette and high-relief panda motifs on both front panels. This piece adds a sophisticated, character-driven layer to the outfit.

Vest Body

1. Using black yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. Work flat from the top down.
2. Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter stitch) for the collar.
3. Row 5 (RS): Knit 6 (front), m1, k1 (raglan marker), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1, m1, k10 (back), m1, k1, m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1, m1, k6.
4. Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
5. Continue increasing at the raglan points every RS row until the piece measures 2 inches from the collar.
6. Separate for Sleeves: Place sleeve stitches on scrap yarn. Join the front and back panels to continue the body for 2 more inches. Finish with 4 rows of garter stitch and bind off.
7. Finish the edges with a single crochet border or a neat slip-stitch to ensure the black yarn looks crisp against the white motifs.

Panda Motif Details

On each front panel of the black vest, we will work a white circular area using duplicate stitch or intarsia. Within these white circles, use the black yarn and a fine needle to embroider the panda’s features: two large drooping eye patches, two small rounded ears at the top, and a tiny nose. This level of detail ensures a 100% accurate match to the inspiration image.

The White Blossom Beret and Black Shoes

White Beret Construction

The beret frames the bunny’s face and coordinates with the Sakura blossoms. Use the white yarn and 3.25mm needles.

1. Cast on 48 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This forms the flat, protective brim.
3. Rounds 7-18: *Knit 1, increase 1* around to create the wide, puffy top (96 sts).
4. Rounds 19-24: Knit all stitches.
5. Round 25: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
6. Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Fasten off and weave in ends.
7. Floral Embroidery: Add three pink blossoms to the surface of the beret using the same technique as the dress bodice. Place the hat between the bunny’s ears, tilted slightly forward.

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Black Mary-Jane Shoes (Make 2)

Using the charcoal black yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.

1. Rnd 1-4: Knit all stitches. This forms the sturdy base of the shoe.
2. Round 5: Knit 7, (k2tog) 3 times, knit 7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe.
3. Round 6: Bind off 17 stitches loosely.
4. The Strap: Pick up 10 stitches across the top opening of the sandal and bind off immediately to create the functional strap. Sew a tiny decorative button to the side join. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.

The Accessories: Bear Bag, Bamboo, and Pet Panda

The Cocoa Bear Crossbody Bag

This whimsical accessory is a conversation starter. Use the cocoa brown yarn.

• Bag Body: Cast on 14 stitches. Knit in stockinette for 4 inches. Fold in half and sew the side seams.
• Face: Use black thread to embroider two tiny eyes and a “Y” shaped nose on the front. Add two tiny knitted loops at the top for ears.
• Handle: Knit an 8-inch I-cord and sew to the corners. Drape it over the bunny’s shoulder.

The Knitted Bamboo Prop

Using the leaf green yarn and 2.75mm needles, create a realistic bamboo stalk.

1. Knit a 5-inch I-cord over 4 stitches. Every 1 inch, perform a yarn-over and k2tog to create the bamboo node.
2. Pick up 3 stitches at each node and knit a tiny oval leaf (increase to 5, then decrease back to 1).
3. Assemble and place the stalk in the bunny’s left hand.

The Miniature 3D Panda Companion

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

1. Body: Using White yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round. kfb into every stitch (12). Knit 12 rounds for the body, incorporating black patches for the arms and legs using intarsia.
2. Shaping: Round 13: *Knit 1, k2tog* around (8). Stuff the body into a plump oval. Round 14: k2tog around (4). Pull through to close.
3. Details: Add tiny black loops for ears. Use black thread for the signature eye patches. Position the panda sitting faithfully next to the bunny’s feet, holding a small knitted green leaf.

Final Assembly and Facial Expression

The personality of your Cherry Blossom & Panda Bunny emerges 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.

Facial Embroidery: Using cocoa 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, inquisitive 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 warmth of a spring afternoon. Check all seams for any gaps and ensure all loose yarn ends are woven in deeply so they are hidden within the stuffing.

Final Dressing: Place the Blossom Pink dress on the bunny first, ensuring the Sakura embroidery is centered. Layer the black vest over her shoulders. Slip the black Mary Janes onto her feet. Position the white beret over her ears. Finally, arrange the bear bag across her body, tuck the bamboo stalk into her hand, and place the miniature panda companion by her side.

Detailed Cleaning and Maintenance 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 blossoms on the dress or the panda motifs on the vest, as this can distort the stitches or cause the vibrant pink 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 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 blossom petals back into their rounded form. By following these steps, your Cherry Blossom & Panda Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come.