The Pink Dahlia & Chow Chow Bunny – Knitting

The Pink Dahlia & Chow Chow Bunny is a breathtaking heirloom-quality creation that blends botanical elegance with the fluffy charm of a beloved canine companion. This sophisticated design features a gentle cream-toned rabbit dressed in a vibrant pink t-shirt and a teal flared skirt, both adorned with intricate 3D textural elements. 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 structural petals and the Chow Chow’s mane. When you shop for professional knitting supplies and order specialized artisan yarns, the complex textures of the dahlia blossoms and the sculptural form of the miniature companion remain crisp and perfectly defined. This project is a rewarding journey for any fiber artist looking to purchase luxury craft materials and transform them into a storied work of art that celebrates the serene beauty of a floral garden. Whether you are seeking to buy high-end doll kits or order bespoke knitting patterns, this specific design offers an unmatched level of detail for the discerning creator.




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

Technical Specifications and Material Selection

Achieving a professional-grade reproduction of this character requires meticulous attention to yarn weight, fiber content, and needle tension. The bunny and its accessories are designed using a fine-gauge approach to ensure the resulting fabric is dense enough to hold a complex shape while remaining soft to the touch. Using a needle size slightly smaller than the yarn manufacturer suggests is a professional secret for creating a solid, opaque fabric that keeps the internal fiberfill foundation completely concealed, even under tension. For the best results, look to purchase high-end needles and buy soft wool blends that provide both durability and a luxury feel. The interaction between the teal skirt and the fuchsia accents requires a high degree of colorfastness, so selecting artisan-dyed luxury yarns is highly recommended.

Required Material Palette

  • Main Bunny Skin: 150g of DK weight wool in Cream or Soft Vanilla. A natural, slightly matte wool provides the best organic texture for an artisan doll.
  • Chow Chow Mane & Puppy: 50g of DK weight yarn in Golden Ginger or Amber Heather. Ideally, use a yarn with a high mohair or alpaca content to allow for brushing and fluffing.
  • Artisan T-Shirt: 75g of DK weight yarn in Fuchsia or Bright Rose Pink.
  • Dahlia Garden Skirt: 100g of DK weight yarn in Deep Teal or Peacock Blue.
  • Mary Jane Shoes & Headband Accents: 50g of DK weight yarn in matching Fuchsia.
  • Botanical Petal Palette: 50g of DK weight yarn in Light Pink or Peony Pink for the 3D dahlia blossoms.
  • Needle Sizes: US Size 2 (2.75mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the bunny body and limbs; US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular or straight needles for the garments.
  • Safety Eyes: One pair of 9mm deep black safety eyes for the bunny; 4mm bright black glass beads for the Chow Chow’s features.
  • Internal Foundation: High-grade hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill (approx. 450g).
  • Essential Notions: Tapestry needle, fine embroidery needles, stitch markers, a small wire pet brush for fluffing, and materials for the miniature fan.

Constructing the Bunny Foundation: Torso and Limbs

The construction begins at the base and moves upward to ensure the bunny has the structural integrity needed for its upright 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 realistic when posed next to the dahlia cushion.

Right and Left Leg Architecture (Make 2)

Using the cream yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 12 stitches. Distribute them evenly across your needles and join for working in the round. Place a marker at the start of the round to track your row count accurately. This section must be knitted with a tight, even tension.

  1. Round 1: Knit into the front and back (kfb) of every stitch around (24 sts).
  2. Round 2: *Knit 2, kfb* repeat from * to the end of the round (32 sts).
  3. Round 3: *Knit 3, kfb* repeat from * to the end of the round (40 sts).
  4. Rounds 4-15: Knit every stitch straight. This builds the rounded base and vertical height of the foot.
  5. Round 16 (Ankle Shaping): Knit 15, (knit 2 together – k2tog) 5 times, knit 15 (35 sts). This creates the elegant curve of the top of the foot.
  6. Round 17: Knit 13, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 14 (31 sts).
  7. Round 18: Knit 11, (k2tog) 4 times, knit 12 (27 sts).
  8. Round 19: Knit all stitches. This stabilizes the ankle join.
  9. Rounds 20-70: Continue in stockinette stitch until the leg measures roughly 7.5 inches from the sole. Stuff the foot area very firmly, ensuring the toe is rounded and the heel has a distinct shape. Stuff the rest of the leg moderately to allow for flexibility at the hip join.

Break the yarn for the first leg and place on a holder. Repeat for the second leg, but do not break the yarn; this will be the starting point for joining the legs and forming the torso.

Sculpting the Torso and Rounded Hips

Joining the legs correctly is vital for the bunny’s balance and the flare of the teal skirt. We create a bridge of stitches between the legs to provide the wide, rounded hips required for the 3D dahlias to hang correctly. This section requires firm stuffing to prevent the doll from sagging over time.

  1. Round 71 (Joining Round): Knit across the 27 stitches of the left leg, cast on 4 stitches for the center gap, knit across the 27 stitches of the right leg, and cast on another 4 stitches for the back (62 sts total). Join for circular knitting.
  2. Rounds 72-100: Knit every stitch in the round. This section establishes the seat and lower abdomen. Focus on maintaining even tension.
  3. Round 101: *Knit 13, k2tog* repeat around (58 sts).
  4. Rounds 102-115: Knit all stitches straight.
  5. Round 116: *Knit 12, k2tog* repeat around (54 sts).
  6. Rounds 117-125: Knit all stitches. Begin stuffing the lower body firmly, pushing the stuffing toward the sides to define the rounded hip silhouette.
  7. Round 126: *Knit 7, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
  8. Rounds 127-135: Knit all stitches.
  9. Round 136: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (42 sts).
  10. Round 137: Knit all stitches.
  11. Round 138: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (36 sts).
  12. Round 139: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (30 sts).
  13. Round 140: *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 Sculptural Bunny Head and Facial Alignment

The head requires specific increases to define the broad, sweet cheeks and the tapered bridge of the nose. Firm stuffing is essential here to support the facial features. The head and body are worked as one piece to eliminate the need for a neck seam.

  1. Round 141: *Knit 2, make 1 stitch (m1)* repeat around (32 sts).
  2. Round 142: *Knit 3, m1* repeat around (40 sts).
  3. Round 143: *Knit 4, m1* repeat around (48 sts).
  4. Round 144: *Knit 5, m1* repeat around (56 sts).
  5. Round 145: *Knit 6, m1* repeat around (64 sts). Establish this as the widest part of the face.
  6. Rounds 146-175: Knit every stitch in stockinette straight. This builds the vertical volume of the face and forehead.

Position the 9mm safety eyes between rounds 160 and 161, leaving approximately 12 stitches between them. Ensure they are level and aligned with the center of the feet for a thoughtful gaze. Secure the backings firmly before proceeding.

  • Round 176: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (56 sts).
  • Round 177: Knit all stitches. This round stabilizes the decrease.
  • Round 178: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (48 sts).
  • Round 179: *Knit 4, k2tog* repeat around (40 sts).
  • Round 180: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat around (32 sts).
  • Round 181: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat around (24 sts).
  • Begin stuffing the head very firmly at this point. Focus on creating symmetrical cheeks and a smooth forehead. Use small pinches of stuffing at a time to avoid lumps.
  • Round 182: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat around (16 sts).
  • Round 183: k2tog around (8 sts). Break the yarn and pull through the remaining stitches. Weave the end securely inside the head.




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Bunny Ears and Slender Arms

The ears are designed to stand tall but possess a gentle curve at the tips, giving the bunny an inquisitive look. The arms are kept slender to allow the pink t-shirt to fit perfectly without restricted movement or bulkiness.

Upright Bunny Ears (Make 2)

Using cream yarn and 3.0mm needles, cast on 14 stitches. We work these flat to allow for a slightly concave interior shape.

  • Rows 1-60: Work in stockinette stitch (Knit RS, Purl WS). This creates a long, elegant rectangle.
  • Row 61: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, slip-slip-knit (ssk) (12 sts).
  • Row 62: Purl all stitches.
  • Row 63: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (10 sts).
  • Row 64: Purl all stitches.
  • Row 65: k2tog, knit to last 2 stitches, ssk (8 sts).
  • Bind off all stitches. Fold the base of the ear slightly in half to create depth and sew to the top of the head at Round 178, spacing them about 6 stitches apart.

Slender Arm Construction (Make 2)

Using cream yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 10 stitches. Join in the round to match the leg construction style.

  1. Rounds 1-55: Knit every round straight. Maintain a consistent gauge.
  2. Round 56: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across (8 sts).
  3. Round 57: k2tog around (4 sts). Break yarn and pull through the stitches.
  4. Stuff the hand area (the bottom 1 inch) firmly and the upper arm very lightly. This allows the arms to rest naturally at the bunny’s sides. Sew the arms to the body just below the neck join at Round 140.

The Fuchsia Pink Chow Chow T-Shirt

The t-shirt is a vibrant fuchsia piece featuring short sleeves and a central 3D Chow Chow head. This garment requires careful color management to ensure the pink yarn remains smooth and does not pucker when the sculptural head is attached.

Using Fuchsia yarn and 3.25mm needles, cast on 48 stitches. Work this piece from the top down.

  1. Rows 1-4: *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for the collar.
  2. Row 5 (RS): Knit 7 (front), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k12 (back), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k8 (sleeve), m1, k1 (marker), m1, k7 (front).
  3. Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
  4. Continue increasing at raglan points every RS row until the body measures 2 inches from the collar.
  5. Separate for Sleeves: Place sleeve stitches on holders. Join the front and back panels to continue the body for another 3 inches. Finish with 4 rows of garter stitch and bind off.
  6. Sleeves: Pick up the stitches from the holder and knit in the round for 1 inch. Finish with a 2-round ribbed cuff.

Sculpting the 3D Chow Chow Face

The Chow Chow head on the t-shirt is a separately knitted sculptural element. Using Amber/Golden yarn and US Size 2 needles:

  • Cast on 8 stitches. Kfb in every stitch (16 sts).
  • Round 1-8: Knit every round.
  • Round 9: *Knit 1, kfb* around (24 sts).
  • To create the mane, use a loop stitch or “shag” stitch every other round using the Amber yarn. This creates the characteristic volume of the breed.
  • Decrease: *Knit 2, k2tog* around, then *Knit 1, k2tog* around until 8 sts remain. Stuff with a small ball of fiberfill.
  • Face Detail: Embroider two small black eyes and a dark brown nose. Use a small pet brush to fluff the mane yarn. Sew this head securely to the center of the t-shirt.

The Teal Dahlia Garden Skirt

The skirt is a classic flared garment with a weighted hem to prevent rolling. The pink dahlias are worked individually and attached to the lower third of the skirt, creating a lush, garden-like border.

Using Deep Teal yarn and 3.25mm circular needles, cast on 90 stitches. Join in the round.

  • Rounds 1-6: Knit all stitches (Garter stitch in the round). This creates a flat, non-rolling edge.
  • Rounds 7-40: Continue in stockinette stitch. This builds the main length of the skirt.
  • Round 41 (Waist Shaping): *Knit 8, k2tog* repeat around (81 sts).
  • Round 42: *Knit 7, k2tog* repeat around (72 sts).
  • Round 43: *Knit 6, k2tog* repeat around (63 sts).
  • Round 44: *Knit 5, k2tog* repeat around (54 sts). This gathers the waist snugly to fit the bunny’s torso.
  • Bind off all stitches loosely. Secure the skirt at the bunny’s waist with hidden stitches into the body during final assembly.

Knitting the 3D Dahlia Blossoms (Make 8-10)

The dahlias are constructed using a series of layered petals to achieve the density seen in the photograph. Use Light Pink yarn and 2.75mm needles.

  • Cast on 5 stitches. Row 1: Knit. Row 2: Purl. Row 3: Kfb, knit 3, kfb (7 sts).
  • Row 4-6: Stockinette. Row 7: K2tog, knit 3, ssk (5 sts). Row 8: P2tog, purl 1, p2tog (3 sts). Row 9: Sl1-k2tog-psso. This forms one pointed petal.
  • Make 10 petals for each flower. Arrange them in two concentric circles and sew them to a small knitted circle base.
  • Attach the finished blossoms evenly around the bottom edge of the teal skirt. Ensure they are spaced approximately 1.5 inches apart for maximum visual impact.




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Fuchsia Mary Jane Shoes and Headband

Mary Jane Shoes (Make 2)

Using Fuchsia yarn and 2.75mm needles, cast on 20 stitches. Join in the round to create a seamless bootie shape.

  1. Rounds 1-4: Knit all stitches. This builds the base of the sole.
  2. Round 5: Knit 7, (k2tog) 3 times, knit 7 (17 sts). This shapes the rounded toe box.
  3. Rounds 6-12: Knit straight up.
  4. The Strap: Cast off 10 stitches for the heel area. On the remaining stitches, knit 2 rows flat, then bind off. Attach a small length of yarn to create a strap across the instep and secure with a tiny pearl bead or button.

Teal Headband with Large Dahlia

Using Teal yarn, cast on 45 stitches. Knit 6 rows of garter stitch and bind off. Sew the ends together to form a circle. Create one extra-large dahlia blossom (using 15 petals) and sew it to the headband. Position the headband on the bunny’s head so the flower sits just in front of the right ear.

The Miniature Chow Chow Companion

The companion elements add a narrative layer to the design. The miniature puppy is worked with a very fine gauge to achieve its realistic posture and features a brushed mane that matches the motif on the t-shirt.

Chow Chow Puppy Construction

Use US Size 1 (2.25mm) needles and Amber yarn. This pet is worked in several small parts.

  • Body/Head: Cast on 10 stitches in Amber. kfb into every stitch (20). Knit 15 rounds for the body. Decrease back to 10 stitches for the neck, then increase to 16 for the head. Knit 8 rounds and close.
  • Stubby Legs: Cast on 6 stitches, knit 4 rounds in the round, and bind off. Make 4. Sew to the bottom of the body.
  • Tail: Cast on 4 stitches. Knit an I-cord for 2 inches and curl it over the puppy’s back.
  • Finishing: Use a small pet brush to vigorously brush the head and neck area until it is very fluffy. Add two tiny black beads for eyes and a small black thread for the nose.

Garden Accessories: Cushion and Fan

Round Pink Cushion

The cushion provides a soft base for the bunny to sit on. Using Light Pink yarn and 3.25mm needles:

  • Cast on 10 stitches. Round 1: Kfb around (20). Round 2: *K1, kfb* around (30). Round 3: *K2, kfb* around (40). Round 4: *K3, kfb* around (50). Round 5: *K4, kfb* around (60).
  • Knit 15 rounds straight in stockinette.
  • Reverse the increases for the bottom: *K4, k2tog* around, then *K3, k2tog*, etc. Stuff with a flat round of fiberfill before closing. Stitch through the center of the cushion with a long needle to create a “dimple.”

The Paper Pleated Fan

The fan is a stylized prop. To mimic the wooden/paper texture, you can use a very light cream yarn and US Size 1 needles. Cast on 30 stitches. Knit in a *Knit 1, Purl 1* ribbing for 40 rows to create a “pleated” effect. Bind off. Fold the piece at the bottom and secure with a tight wrap of yarn to create the fanned shape seen in the hand of the rabbit.

Final Assembly and Face Detail

Bringing the bunny to life requires a gentle touch during the final assembly. Ensure the head is perfectly aligned with the center of the chest before securing any knots. All facial features must be symmetrical to the safety eyes.

Nose and Mouth: Using a dark brown or charcoal embroidery thread, stitch a small “Y” shape. The center of the “Y” should be positioned exactly between the safety eyes, about two rounds below them. Keep the tension of your stitches firm to maintain the sweet, inquisitive expression seen in the photo.

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 effect of a warm afternoon in a flower garden. Be careful to build the color slowly to avoid over-saturation.

Final Polish: Check all seams for loose threads. Ensure the Chow Chow on the t-shirt is centered and the mane is fluffed. Position the miniature puppy next to the bunny and place the bunny on the round pink cushion. The fan should be secured to the bunny’s hand with a hidden stitch.

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Because this art piece features intricate 3D embroidery, multi-layered clothing, and brushed mohair elements, proper care is essential to preserve its museum-quality appearance for decades. This bunny is an art doll intended for display rather than active play.

Professional Cleaning: Hand washing is the only recommended method. 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 3D dahlias or the Chow Chow motif, as this can distort the petals or cause the brushed mane to tangle. Let the doll soak for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.

The Drying Process: 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 flared teal skirt. Lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade the delicate pink colors over time. Once dry, you may need to gently massage the stuffing with your fingers to restore her original plump shape and use a small needle or brush to “re-fluff” the Chow Chow’s mane and the dahlia petals.

Long-term Care: 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 the attachment of the miniature puppy to ensure the yarn remains secure. By following these maintenance steps, your Pink Dahlia & Chow Chow Bunny will remain a cherished masterpiece for many years to come.

 

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