The White Gardenia & Golden Retriever Bunny is a breathtaking artisan piece that captures the essence of a serene spring morning. This exquisite design features a soft cream rabbit dressed in a vibrant green vest and a sunny yellow skirt, making it a perfect addition to any heirloom collection. To create this professional-looking doll, fiber artists often buy high-quality merino wool and shop for professional knitting supplies to ensure the stitch definition remains crisp. When you order specialized artisan yarns and luxury needles, the resulting fabric has a refined texture that elevates the entire project. This doll celebrates botanical elegance and canine companionship through meticulous craft, resulting in a storied work of art that charms everyone who sees it.

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

Project Overview and Technical Specifications

Creating this sophisticated character requires attention to detail and a commitment to high-gauge knitting. The goal is to produce a fabric that is dense enough to hold its sculptural form while remaining soft to the touch. This bunny stands as a symbol of springtime, blending the purity of white gardenias with the loyal spirit of a golden retriever. The patterns provided here cover every element seen in the inspiration image, from the delicate flower petals to the rolled newspaper accessory.

Recommended Materials

• Main Bunny Body: 150g of DK weight wool in Cream or Soft Off-White.
• Outfit Colors: 50g of DK weight yarn in Grass Green (Vest) and 75g in Pale Primrose Yellow (Skirt).
• Gardenia Flowers: 30g of DK weight yarn in Stark White.
• Accessories: 50g of DK weight yarn in White (Hat), 20g in Pastel Yellow (Hat Ribbon and Shoes), and 30g in Tan/Brown (Basket Bag).
• Miniature Puppy: 40g of Mohair or fuzzy yarn in Golden Honey.
• Needles: US Size 2 (2.75mm) double-pointed needles and US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular or straight needles.
• Safety Eyes: 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny and 4mm black beads for the miniature puppy.
• Stuffing: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, embroidery thread in Black and Dark Brown, stitch markers, and a small wooden button for the basket.

The Bunny Foundation: Legs and Torso

The foundation of the doll begins with the lower limbs, which are worked upward to create a seamless transition into the body. This method ensures structural integrity and a clean silhouette.

Leg Construction (Make 2)

Using the Cream yarn and US Size 2 needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them evenly across the needles and join for working in the round.

1. Round 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch (24 sts).
2. Round 2: *Knit 2, kfb* repeat around (32 sts).
3. Rounds 3-12: Knit every stitch straight. This forms the rounded foot base.
4. Round 13 (Instep Shaping): Knit 12, (knit 2 together – k2tog) 4 times, knit 12 (28 sts).
5. Round 14: Knit 10, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 10 (24 sts).
6. Rounds 15-60: Knit every stitch in stockinette. This builds the height of the leg.
7. Break yarn on the first leg and place on a holder. Do not break yarn on the second leg.

Joining for the Torso

The legs are joined to create the seat and lower abdomen. This area is worked in the round.

1. Round 61: Knit across the 24 stitches of the first leg, cast on 4 stitches for the center bridge, knit across the 24 stitches of the second leg, and cast on another 4 stitches for the back (56 sts total).
2. Rounds 62-85: Knit every stitch. This section establishes the rounded hips.
3. Round 86: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (52 sts).
4. Rounds 87-100: Knit straight.
5. Round 101: *Knit 11, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
6. Rounds 102-110: Knit straight.
7. Round 111: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts). Begin stuffing the legs and lower torso firmly.
8. Rounds 112-120: Knit straight.
9. Round 121: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
10. Round 122: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts). This forms the neck. Do not bind off.

The Integrated Head and Facial Sculpting

The head is worked directly from the neck stitches to avoid a seam, providing a sturdy support for the large upright ears.

Head Architecture

1. Round 123: *Knit 2, make 1 (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
2. Round 124: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
3. Round 125: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
4. Round 126: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
5. Round 127: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts).
6. Rounds 128-150: Knit straight. This builds the volume of the cheeks and face.
7. Position 9mm safety eyes between rounds 138 and 139, leaving 10 stitches between them.
8. Round 151: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
9. Round 152: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
10. Round 153: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
11. Round 154: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
12. Round 155: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts). Finish stuffing the head firmly, shaping the cheeks as you go.
13. Round 156: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
14. Round 157: k2tog around (8 sts). Break yarn and thread through remaining stitches, pulling tight to close.

The Upright Ears (Make 2)

The ears are long and stand tall, which is a signature feature of this design.

1. Using Cream yarn and US Size 2 needles, cast on 14 stitches. Work flat.
2. Row 1 (RS): Knit all stitches.
3. Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.
4. Continue in stockinette for 45 rows.
5. Row 46: k2tog, knit to last 2, ssk (12 sts).
6. Row 47: Purl straight.
7. Row 48: k2tog, knit to last 2, ssk (10 sts).
8. Row 49: Purl straight.
9. Row 50: k2tog, knit to last 2, ssk (8 sts).
10. Bind off. Fold the base of the ear slightly in half and sew to the top of the head at round 152.

Slender Arms and Hands

The arms are kept relatively thin to allow the clothing to layer easily without looking bulky.

Arm Construction (Make 2)

1. Cast on 10 stitches in Cream yarn using US Size 2 needles. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-45: Knit straight in stockinette.
3. Round 46: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (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 to ensure flexibility. Sew to the torso at Round 118.

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The Spring Wardrobe: Green Vest and Yellow Skirt

The outfit is the most detailed part of the project, requiring multiple techniques including 3D appliqué and decorative borders.

The Grass Green Vest

The vest is sleeveless and worked from the bottom up to the armholes, then split for the back and front panels.

1. Using Green yarn and US Size 3 needles, cast on 44 stitches. Work flat.
2. Rows 1-4: Knit every stitch (Garter stitch border).
3. Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette.
4. Row 21: Bind off 4 stitches at the start of the next two rows for armholes (36 sts).
5. Rows 22-35: Work straight.
6. Row 36: Knit 10, bind off 16 for neck, knit 10. Work each shoulder separately for 4 more rows.
7. Bind off and sew shoulder seams.

The Golden Retriever 3D Appliqué

This tiny head sits in the center of the green vest. It is worked separately and sewn on.

1. Using Honey yarn, cast on 8 stitches.
2. Row 1: kfb in every stitch (16 sts).
3. Rows 2-8: Stockinette.
4. Row 9: k2tog around (8 sts). Stuff lightly and close to form a ball.
5. Snout: Cast on 4 stitches, knit 2 rows, k2tog. Sew to the face ball.
6. Ears: Cast on 3 stitches, knit 4 rows, bind off. Sew to the sides of the head.
7. Embroider a black nose and two small eyes. Sew the finished head to the center of the vest.

The Primrose Yellow Skirt

This skirt features a wide flare and is decorated with white gardenia blossoms.

1. Using Yellow yarn and US Size 3 needles, cast on 72 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-4: Knit every stitch.
3. Rounds 5-40: Knit in stockinette.
4. Round 41 (Waistband): *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (60 sts).
5. Rounds 42-46: K1, P1 ribbing.
6. Bind off loosely.

3D White Gardenia Flowers (Make 6-8)

The gardenias are composed of layered petals to create a full, lush appearance.

1. Using White yarn, cast on 4 stitches.
2. Row 1: Knit into front and back of first and last stitch (6 sts).
3. Row 2: Purl.
4. Row 3: Knit.
5. Row 4: p2tog, purl 2, p2tog (4 sts).
6. Row 5: k2tog twice (2 sts).
7. Bind off. This forms one petal. Sew 5 petals into a circle.
8. Center: Knit a tiny bobble or a French knot.
9. Sew the finished gardenias around the lower hem of the yellow skirt, evenly spaced.

Footwear and Accessories

The accessories complete the narrative of a bunny going for a spring walk in the garden.

Yellow Strappy Sandals (Make 2)

1. Using Yellow yarn, cast on 10 stitches. Work flat.
2. Row 1: Knit.
3. Row 2: kfb in every stitch (20 sts).
4. Rows 3-8: Stockinette.
5. Row 9: Knit 5, bind off 10, knit 5.
6. Sew the heel seam. Strap: Pick up 2 stitches at the side, knit an i-cord for 1 inch, and sew to the opposite side.

The White Sun Hat

1. Using White yarn and US Size 3 needles, cast on 60 stitches. Join in the round.
2. Rounds 1-6: Knit every round. This creates the brim.
3. Round 7: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (50 sts).
4. Rounds 8-15: Knit straight.
5. Round 16: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
6. Round 17: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
7. Round 18: k2tog around. Break yarn and pull tight.
8. Ribbon: Using Yellow yarn, cast on 60 stitches, knit 2 rows, bind off. Wrap around the base of the crown and tie in a small bow.

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The Woven Basket Bag

1. Using Brown/Tan yarn, cast on 15 stitches. Work flat.
2. Rows 1-30: Knit every row (Garter stitch for texture).
3. Fold the rectangle in half and sew the side seams.
4. Handle: Cast on 3 stitches, knit an i-cord for 4 inches. Sew to the sides.
5. Add a small green embroidery detail to the front to represent a leaf.

The Miniature Golden Retriever Puppy

The miniature pet is the most delicate part of the project and requires a fuzzy yarn to mimic dog fur.

Puppy Construction

Worked in several pieces and assembled.

• Body: Cast on 10 stitches in Honey Mohair. Knit in stockinette for 12 rows. Bind off and sew into a tube, stuffing firmly.
• Head: Cast on 6 stitches, kfb every stitch (12). Knit 6 rows. k2tog around (6). Stuff and close.
• Legs (Make 4): Cast on 4 stitches, knit 5 rows, bind off. Sew to the bottom of the body.
• Tail: Cast on 3 stitches, knit 4 rows, bind off.
• Ears: Cast on 3 stitches, knit 3 rows, bind off. Sew to the sides of the puppy head.
• Facial features: Use 4mm black beads for eyes and black thread for the nose and mouth.

Once the puppy is assembled, use a small brush to “fluff” the Mohair fibers, giving it a realistic golden retriever texture.

The Rolled Newspaper Accessory

This charming prop is made of knitted fabric that is rolled and secured.

1. Using White yarn, cast on 20 stitches. Work flat.
2. Rows 1-30: Knit every stitch.
3. Bind off.
4. Lettering: Using black embroidery thread and a fine needle, stitch the word “Bitten” on the right side of the fabric. Add small grey horizontal lines to represent columns of text.
5. Roll the fabric tightly so the text is visible on the outside. Secure with a hidden stitch.

Instructions for Assembly and Final Finishing

The assembly process is where the character truly comes to life. Follow these steps for a professional finish.

Face Detail Instructions

Using Dark Brown embroidery thread, stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth. The center of the “Y” should be roughly three rows below the eyes. Ensure the tension is even so the bunny has a gentle expression.

Final Putting Together

1. Slide the yellow skirt onto the bunny, ensuring it sits at the waist.
2. Dress the bunny in the green vest, securing any hidden snaps or buttons at the back if you chose to add them.
3. Put the sun hat on the bunny’s head, positioning it so the ears poke out comfortably if desired, or sitting just in front of the ears as seen in the photo.
4. Slide the sandals onto the feet.
5. Place the rolled newspaper in the basket bag and place the bag over the bunny’s arm.
6. Position the miniature puppy next to the bunny’s feet.

Artisan Tips for a Professional Finish

To ensure your creation looks like a museum-quality piece, consider these extra steps:

• Blocking: Lightly steam-block the green vest and yellow skirt before assembly. This settles the stitches and ensures the gardenias sit flat against the skirt fabric.
• Tension Management: When working the 3D gardenia petals, keep your tension tight. This prevents the white yarn from looking loose or messy.
• Stuffing Technique: When stuffing the head, use small pinches of fiberfill to build up the cheeks. This creates a more realistic facial structure rather than a simple sphere.
• Embroidery Precision: When stitching the “Bitten” logo on the newspaper, use a single strand of thread to keep the lettering fine and legible.

Maintenance and Care of Heirloom Knit Toys

Due to the delicate nature of the mohair and the 3D flower appliqués, this doll is intended for decorative display rather than rough play. Follow these guidelines to preserve its beauty.

Cleaning Instructions

Never submerge the doll in water. If it becomes dusty, use a soft-bristled brush or a hairdryer on the cool setting to gently blow away debris. For small stains, use a damp cloth with a tiny amount of wool-safe detergent and dab gently. Allow to air dry completely away from direct sunlight.

Storage Advice

Keep the doll in a dry environment. If storing for a long period, place it in a breathable cotton bag with a cedar block to protect the natural wool fibers from pests. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause the stuffing to lose its loft.

By following this detailed guide, you will create a stunning representation of the White Gardenia & Golden Retriever Bunny. The combination of textures, from the smooth cream wool of the body to the fuzzy mohair of the puppy, creates a sensory delight that celebrates the joy of spring and artisan craftsmanship.