The White Anemone & Westie Bunny – Knitting

The White Anemone & Westie Bunny is a breathtaking example of high-end amigurumi artistry, designed for those who appreciate the intersection of botanical elegance and canine devotion. This sophisticated character features a pristine white rabbit with signature upright ears, dressed in a stunning royal blue A-line skirt adorned with hand-knitted 3D anemone blossoms and a vibrant red cardigan featuring a detailed Westie dog motif. To achieve the professional, museum-grade finish seen in these high-definition photographs, it is essential to buy premium merino wool or a high-twist cotton-merino blend that offers superior stitch definition for the complex surface work. When you shop for professional knitting supplies and order specialized needles from a reputable source, the intricate details of the floral petals and the miniature West Highland Terrier companion will remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for any textile artist looking to purchase luxury yarn materials 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.

Project Specifications and Technical Requirements

Selecting the correct fiber is the most critical stage of creating a professional-grade art doll. The White Anemone & Westie Bunny is optimized for DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn, which provides the necessary structural integrity for the bunny’s upright standing posture 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. A natural, high-quality wool provides a soft, matte finish characteristic of boutique art dolls.
  • Skirt Wardrobe: 100 grams of DK weight yarn in Royal Blue.
  • Cardigan & Beret: 75 grams of DK weight yarn in Crimson Red.
  • Floral Embroidery & Accessories:
    • Pure White: 50 grams for anemone petals, socks, and shoes.
    • Jet Black: 25 grams for anemone centers and facial features.
    • Sage Green: 15 grams for flower leaves.
    • Tartan Palette: Scraps of Navy, Red, and Green for the plaid handbag.
    • Sand/Beige: 15 grams for the hairbrush handle.
  • Needle Specifications: 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 for the miniature Westie companion.
  • Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 400 grams).
  • Essential Notions: A sharp tapestry needle, fine embroidery needles, stitch markers, and four tiny 4mm buttons for the cardigan and shoes.

Establishing 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 skirt and cardigan against the bunny’s torso as you progress is highly recommended to ensure the proportions match the reference image perfectly.

The standing stability of the bunny depends on a firm, dense fabric that resists stretching once stuffed with the fiberfill foundation. 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 anemone petals require a stable, non-stretchy base to prevent the 3D flowers from pulling or puckering the skirt fabric.

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 Pure 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 14-55: 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 55 on the second leg, do not break the yarn, as this working yarn will be used to join the limbs 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 blue skirt to sit elegantly. This part must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the character from leaning or sagging 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 red 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 101: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (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 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 Pure 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 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 Pure White 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 Royal Blue Anemone Skirt

This skirt features a classic A-line silhouette with intricate 3D floral appliques at the hem. The White Anemones 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 Royal Blue yarn and 3.25mm circular needles for a beautiful drape.

Knitting the Skirt Body

  1. Cast on 84 stitches in Royal 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 white body during final assembly.

Detailed 3D Anemone Guide

The anemones are positioned in a row around the entire circumference of the skirt hem. Each blossom consists of a dark center and white petals. Use a fine embroidery needle for assembly.

  • The Centers: Using Jet Black yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Join in round. K1 round, then k2tog around. Pull tight to create a small “button” shape.
  • The Petals: Using Pure White yarn, pick up 12 stitches around the black center. *Knit 2, turn, purl 2, turn, k2tog, bind off*. Repeat 6 times around the center to create small, rounded petals.
  • The Leaves: Using Sage Green yarn, work two small “lazy daisy” loops at the base of each flower to represent the greenery. Space these flowers approximately 1.5 inches apart around the skirt hem.

The Crimson Red Cardigan and Westie Motif

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

Cardigan Body and Sleeves

  1. Using Red 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. 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).
  4. Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
  5. Continue increasing at the raglan points every RS row until the piece measures 2.5 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 2.5 more inches. Finish with 4 rows of ribbing and bind off.

Westie Motif Embroidery Detail

On the left front panel of the red cardigan, use the white and black yarns. Embroider a tiny silhouette of a Westie head using a satin stitch for the main face. Use black yarn for the pointed ears, nose, and eyes. This level of detail is essential for a 100% accurate match to the image theme. Add a tiny red button at the neck closure to finish the look.

The Textured Red Beret and White Mary Janes

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

Crimson Beret Construction

  1. Cast on 48 stitches in Crimson Red. Join in the round using 3.25mm needles.
  2. Rounds 1-6: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing to create a soft, elastic frame.
  3. Rounds 7-18: *Knit 2, Purl 1* to create the textural vertical lines seen in the photo.
  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. Add a tiny red stem to the center top. The hat should sit casually between her ears.




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White Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

These shoes are separate items that fit over the white feet. Use the Pure White 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.
  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. Sew a tiny 4mm button to the side of the strap. Slip onto the bunny’s feet over white socks (simple 5-row white tubes).

Specialized Props: Handbag and Hairbrush

Plaid Messenger Handbag

The bunny carries a small bag designed with a rustic tartan texture. Use the scraps of Red, Navy, and Green with 3.25mm needles.

  1. Cast on 12 stitches. Work in stockinette for 6 inches to create a long rectangle.
  2. Add the Tartan grid: Use a tapestry needle to stitch vertical and horizontal lines in contrasting colors over the base.
  3. Fold the bottom 2.5 inches up to form a pocket and sew the side seams.
  4. Handle: Knit an 8-inch black I-cord over 3 stitches and sew to the sides. Position the bag over the bunny’s shoulder.

Knitted Hairbrush Accessory

  1. Using Beige yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Knit a 2-inch tube for the handle.
  2. Increase to 12 stitches and knit a flat oval for the head of the brush.
  3. Bristles: Use silver-grey yarn. Work 10 rows of loop-stitch or simply sew loops of grey yarn onto the head and trim to 0.5 cm. Position the brush next to the bunny as a prop.

The Miniature 3D Westie 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 a textured finish.

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

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The personality of your White Anemone & Westie 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.

Dressing: Place the blue skirt on the bunny first, ensuring the flowers are centered. Layer the red cardigan over her shoulders. Slip the white shoes onto the feet and position the red beret between her ears. Finally, arrange the plaid bag, hairbrush, and Westie 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 flowers on the skirt or the Westie brooch on the cardigan, as this can distort the stitches or cause the vibrant red 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 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 red beret and every embroidered petal on the blue 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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