The Tall Hollyhock & Rough Collie Bunny is a breathtaking heirloom-quality masterpiece that captures the poetic transition of a summer garden into the world of fine needlework. This sophisticated design features a gentle oatmeal-toned bunny with signature tall, inquisitive ears, dressed in a stunning cream A-line dress adorned with intricate vertical hollyhock embroidery. The ensemble is completed with a soft tan capelet featuring a detailed Rough Collie brooch and a matching brown explorer hat. To achieve the high-definition results and professional finish seen in these photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or purchase luxury alpaca yarn that offers superior stitch definition for the complex surface work. When you order specialized knitting kits and buy professional-grade needles from a reputable source, the delicate details of the floral stalks and the miniature canine companion will stand out with museum-quality precision. This project is a rewarding journey for any fiber artist looking to buy high-quality craft materials and transform them into a storied work of art that celebrates the harmony between nature and 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.

Essential Materials and Technical Specifications

To ensure your finished bunny mirrors the professional aesthetic of the reference image, selecting the correct fiber weights is the first and most critical stage of the process. 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 Body Fiber: Approximately 150 grams of DK weight wool in Oatmeal or Warm Tan. A natural, high-quality wool blend provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of boutique art dolls.
• A-Line Dress: 100 grams of DK weight yarn in Soft Cream or Ivory.
• Capelet & Hat: 75 grams of DK weight yarn in Tan or Camel Brown.
• Floral & Collie Palette:
  • Forest Green: 15 grams for hollyhock stems and leaves.
  • Magenta, Rose, and Lilac: 10 grams each for the layered hollyhock blossoms.
  • Sable Orange: 15 grams for the Collie markings.
  • Pure White: 10 grams for the Collie “ruff” and muzzle.
  • Charcoal Black: 10 grams for the facial features and boot soles.
• Footwear: 30 grams of Earth Brown DK yarn.
• Needle Sizes: 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 miniature Collie pet.
• Internal Foundation: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 350 grams).
• Essential Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needles, stitch markers, and four tiny 4mm brown buttons for the shoes and journal.

 

Structural Gauge and Tension Management

Consistency in your tension is what transforms a simple project into a high-end heirloom 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 dress 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. Avoid using bulky yarns, as they will obscure the delicate hollyhock embroidery on the dress skirt.

 

Foundation: Constructing the Bunny 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.

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 14-55: Continue in stockinette stitch (knit every round) until the leg measures roughly 6.5 inches (16.5 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 for the left leg. After reaching Round 55 on the second leg, do not break the yarn, as this working yarn will be used to join the legs and begin the torso.

 

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 cream dress to sit elegantly over the lower body. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning over time.

Round 56 (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 57-75: 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 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 84-90: 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 91: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
• Rounds 92-96: Knit all stitches around.
• Round 97: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
• Round 98: Knit all stitches around.
• Round 99: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
• Round 100: *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 explorer 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 Construction

1. Round 101: *Knit 2, m1* repeat around (32 sts).
2. Round 102: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
3. Round 103: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Round 104: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
5. Round 105: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts). Establish this as the widest part of the face.
6. Rounds 106-126: 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 116 and 117, 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 127: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
• Round 128: Knit all stitches. This round stabilizes the decrease.
• Round 129: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
• Round 130: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
• Round 131: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
• Round 132: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
• Round 133: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
• Round 134: 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 1-55: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long rectangle.
3. Row 56: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (10 sts).
4. Row 57: Purl all stitches.
5. Row 58: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
6. Row 59: Purl all stitches.
7. Row 60: 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 130, 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. They are worked as separate tubes and attached during the final assembly phase. Join the oatmeal yarn in the round on the smaller 2.75mm needles.

1. Cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-45: Knit all stitches in stockinette for forty-five rounds. Maintain a consistent gauge to match the legs.
3. Round 46: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
4. Round 47: 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 100.

 

The Tall Hollyhock Cream Dress

This dress features a classic A-line silhouette with intricate botanical embroidery at the hem. The hollyhocks 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 cream yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.

Knitting the Dress Skirt

1. Cast on 84 stitches in Cream. 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. 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 during final assembly.

Detailed Hollyhock Embroidery Guide

The hollyhocks are positioned in tall, vertical stalks around the entire circumference of the skirt hem. Each stalk should reach different heights for a natural look. Use a fine embroidery needle, forest green for stems, and the pink/purple palette for petals.

• The Stalks: Using a stem stitch with green yarn, create long vertical lines (ranging from 3 to 5 cm) rising from the hem. Add small “lazy daisy” loops on either side of the stem for leaves.
• The Blossoms: Using the magenta, rose, and lilac yarns, work several small “bullion knots” or clusters of French knots along the upper half of the stalks. Hollyhocks bloom in dense clusters; ensure the knots are thick and slightly overlapping for a 100% accurate botanical look.
• The Buds: Near the very top of each green stalk, add two or three tiny green French knots to represent unopened buds. Space these stalks approximately 1.5 inches apart around the entire skirt hem.

 

The Tan Capelet and Collie Brooch

The capelet is a standout piece of the character’s wardrobe, worked flat in rich tan wool. It features a rounded collar and a high-relief Rough Collie brooch on the left chest panel. This piece adds a sophisticated, heritage-themed layer to the outfit.

Capelet Construction

1. Using Tan yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 44 stitches. We work this piece flat.
2. Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the collar.
3. Rows 5-20: Continue in stockinette stitch while performing increases at the edges of every second row to create the flared, cape-like shape seen in the image.
4. Round the edges by performing decreases for the final three rows to create the soft, curved front panels.
5. Finish the entire outer edge with a single row of garter stitch or a neat slip-stitch border to prevent curling.

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Collie Brooch Embroidery Detail

On the left front panel of the tan capelet, use the sable orange, white, and black yarns. Embroider a tiny silhouette of a Rough Collie head using a satin stitch for the main face. Use white for the muzzle and the signature “white ruff,” and black for the nose and eyes. This level of detail is essential for a 100% accurate match to the image theme. Add a tiny white felt backing to the embroidery to give it a 3D brooch-like appearance before stitching it securely to the capelet.

 

The Brown Explorer Hat and Mary Janes

The accessories provide the finishing touches to the character’s personality. The explorer hat frames the face with a warm hug, while the shoes ground the outfit in a classic doll style. We use the brown yarn for the hat and dark earth brown for the footwear.

Brown Explorer Hat Construction

1. Cast on 48 stitches in Brown. Join in the round using 3.25mm needles.
2. Rounds 1-6: Knit all stitches. This forms the protective brim of the hat.
3. Rounds 7-18: Continue in stockinette stitch. This forms the walls of the hat.
4. Round 19: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around.
5. Round 20: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around.
6. Continue decreasing in this pattern until 6 stitches remain. Pull the yarn through the remaining stitches and fasten off. The hat should sit casually between her ears.

Brown Lace-up Shoes (Make 2)

These shoes are separate items that fit over the oatmeal feet. Use the earth brown yarn and 3.0mm needles.

1. Cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rnds 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 seen in the image.
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 darker brown thread to embroider “laces” in a criss-cross pattern on the front. Slip onto the bunny’s feet.

 

Accessories: Basket, Journal, and Collie Companion

The Woven Flower Basket

The bunny carries a small basket designed with a rustic texture. Use the earth brown yarn and the 3.25mm needles.

1. Base: Cast on 10 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 10 rows. Bind off.
2. Sides: Pick up 40 stitches around the edge of the base. Work in seed stitch (k1, p1 alternating) for 12 rounds to mimic a woven texture. Bind off.
3. Handle: Knit an 8-inch I-cord over 3 stitches and sew to the sides.
4. Flowers: Knit several tiny colorful blossoms (magenta, purple, yellow) using a simple petal increase/decrease pattern and tuck them into the basket.

The Knitted Explorer’s Journal

This accessory is a masterpiece of miniature knitting. It requires a fine gauge and careful assembly to achieve the rigid book look.

1. Using Earth Brown yarn, cast on 12 stitches. Work in stockinette for 6 inches to create a long rectangle.
2. Fold the rectangle in half. Add a tiny 4mm brown button on the edge for the “clasp.”
3. Insert several small pieces of folded cream felt inside and sew along the center fold to create “pages.” Position the book next to the bunny as a prop.

The Miniature 3D Rough Collie Companion

This tiny pet stands faithfully next to the bunny and requires very careful assembly to achieve its realistic sitting posture. It is worked in one piece for the head and body with color changes to create the markings.

1. Using Sable Orange yarn, cast on 6 stitches in the round using 2.0mm needles. kfb into every stitch (12).
2. Knit 12 rounds for the body, incorporating White patches on the front chest and neck using the intarsia method.
3. Round 13: *Knit 1, k2tog* around (8). Stuff the body firmly into a plump oval.
4. Round 14: k2tog around (4). Pull through to close for the head.
5. Details: Add two tiny sable triangles for ears. Use black thread for the nose and eyes. Use a long-and-short stitch with white yarn around the neck to create the signature “fluffy” Rough Collie collar. Position the dog sitting faithfully next to the bunny’s feet.

 

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The personality of your Tall Hollyhock & Rough Collie Bunny emerges during the final sewing stage. Ensure all parts are aligned perfectly with the reference image before securing knots. Begin by ensuring the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest.

Face Detail: Using charcoal black 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 soft lighting in the photo perfectly. Check all seams for any gaps and ensure all loose yarn ends are woven in deeply so they are hidden within the stuffing.

Dressing: Place the hollyhock dress on the bunny first, ensuring the stalks are centered. Layer the tan capelet over her shoulders. Slip the brown shoes onto the feet and position the explorer hat between her ears. Finally, arrange the flower basket, journal, and collie companion as shown in the composition. Check that the ears are standing tall and symmetrical.

 

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 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 hollyhocks on the dress or the Collie brooch 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 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 magenta and lilac 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 tan capelet and every embroidered petal on the hollyhock border 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 garden-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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