Clematis Trellis-Bloom Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the serene and sophisticated world of the Clematis Trellis-Bloom Bunny. This project captures the quiet elegance of an English walled garden in full bloom. The bunny features a harmonious palette of soft greys and vibrant purples, making it a modern classic for any collection. When you are ready to buy knitting yarn for this project, we suggest looking for a heathered grey wool blend to give the bunny’s coat a natural, realistic texture, while choosing bright, colorfast cottons for the floral details.

This comprehensive guide offers an immersive knitting experience, covering everything from the doll’s construction to the intricate lattice-work bag and miniature gardening tools. Whether you are using your trusted needles or searching for the best knitting needles online to tackle the fine gauge required for the watering can, this pattern is designed to be a joy to create. Prepare to lose yourself in the rhythm of the stitches as you bring this garden guardian to life.

 

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 Material Selection

The Clematis Trellis-Bloom Bunny is an advanced-beginner to intermediate project that focuses heavily on surface embellishment and texture. The doll itself is a blank canvas of soft grey, while the outfit relies on lace stitches and cabling to mimic the structures found in a garden. The embroidery—climbing vines of clematis—is what truly defines this character.

The finished doll stands approximately 11 to 12 inches tall. The clothes are designed to be removable, allowing for dress-up play. The accessories, including the watering can and the trellis-patterned bag, are small structural projects that are excellent for using up scrap yarn.

Yarn Requirements

For the best results, use a DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn (Light Worsted/8-ply). The specific colors needed to match the photo are:

• Main Body & Clothing Base (Warm Grey/Taupe): Approximately 150g. This unique monochromatic look uses the same tone for the bunny’s fur, the dress, the cardigan, and the hat, creating a sophisticated “stone statue” or “garden ornament” aesthetic.
• Floral Contrast (Royal Purple & Lilac): 30g total. You need a dark purple for the outer petals and a lighter lilac for the inner accents of the clematis flowers.
• Leaf Green: 20g. A muted olive green looks best against the grey background for the vines and stems.
• Accessory Accents (Silver/White/Pastels): Small scraps for the watering can details, the butterfly wings, and the carrot tops.

Tools and Notions

• Knitting Needles: A pair of US 2.5 (3.00mm) straight needles. Using a needle size smaller than the yarn label recommends is crucial for toys to prevent the stuffing from showing through the fabric.
• Double Pointed Needles (DPNs): US 2.5 (3.00mm) for knitting the I-cord stems, the watering can spout, and the carrot bodies in the round.
• Cable Needle: Essential for the sleeves of the cardigan.
• Tapestry Needle: A long, blunt needle for assembling the doll parts.
• Chenille Needle: A sharp-pointed needle with a large eye, perfect for the surface embroidery on the cardigan and dress.
• Stuffing: Premium polyester fiberfill.
• Safety Eyes: Two 9mm black eyes.
• Stitch Holders: To keep the leg stitches safe while working the second leg.

Part 1: The Bunny Construction

We begin by knitting the legs, which are worked separately and then joined to form the body. This seamless transition ensures the bunny has a sturdy structure and is comfortable to hold.

Legs (Make 2)

We start at the sole of the foot using the Warm Grey yarn. Note that the shoes are separate, so this represents the bunny’s actual foot.

1. Cast On: Cast on 11 stitches leaving a long tail for sewing the bottom seam.
2. Row 1: Purl all stitches.
3. Row 2 (Increase): Knit into the front and back (kfb) of the first stitch, Knit 9, kfb in the last stitch. (13 sts).
4. Row 3: Purl all stitches.
5. Row 4 (Increase): Kfb, Knit 11, kfb. (15 sts).
6. Row 5: Purl all stitches.
7. Rows 6-8: Work in Stockinette Stitch (Knit on Right Side, Purl on Wrong Side) for 3 rows.
8. Row 9 (Shape Toe): Knit 5, Slip 1, Knit 1, Pass slipped stitch over (skpo), Knit 1, Knit 2 together (k2tog), Knit 5. (13 sts).
9. Row 10: Purl all stitches.
10. Row 11 (Shape Ankle): Knit 5, Slip 2 together knitwise, Knit 1, Pass slipped stitches over (Center Double Decrease), Knit 5. (11 sts).
11. Row 12: Purl all stitches. The foot is now shaped.
12. Rows 13-35: Work straight in Stockinette Stitch for 23 rows to create the leg.
13. First Leg: Cut the yarn and place stitches on a holder.
14. Second Leg: Repeat the instructions above but do not cut the yarn.

Joining the Body

We will now bridge the two legs together.

1. Row 36 (Join): Knit across the 11 stitches of the second leg. Cast on 3 stitches (using the backward loop method). Knit across the 11 stitches of the first leg from the holder. You now have 25 stitches.
2. Row 37: Purl all stitches. Be careful to purl the cast-on stitches tightly to avoid gaps at the crotch.
3. Rows 38-50: Work straight in Stockinette Stitch. This forms the lower torso.
4. Row 51 (Hip Shaping): Knit 5, kfb, Knit 13, kfb, Knit 5. (27 sts).
5. Row 52: Purl all stitches.
6. Rows 53-65: Work straight. Stuff the legs firmly now, as access will become difficult later.
7. Row 66 (Waist Decrease): Knit 6, k2tog, Knit 11, skpo, Knit 6. (25 sts).
8. Row 67: Purl all stitches.
9. Row 68: Knit 5, k2tog, Knit 11, skpo, Knit 5. (23 sts).
10. Row 69: Purl all stitches.
11. Row 70 (Shoulder Shaping): Knit 4, k2tog, Knit 11, skpo, Knit 4. (21 sts).
12. Row 71: Purl all stitches.
13. Row 72: Knit 3, k2tog, Knit 11, skpo, Knit 3. (19 sts).
14. Row 73: Purl all stitches. Do not cast off.

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The Head

The head is knitted directly onto the body neck stitches.

1. Row 74 (Neck Expansion): Kfb in every stitch across the row. (38 sts).
2. Row 75: Purl all stitches.
3. Row 76 (Cheek Expansion): *Knit 2, kfb* repeat to the last 2 stitches, Knit 2. (50 sts).
4. Rows 77-96: Work straight in Stockinette Stitch for 20 rows. This large area creates the bunny’s round face.
5. Row 97 (Crown Decrease): *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat to end.
6. Row 98: Purl all stitches.
7. Row 99: *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat to end.
8. Row 100: Purl all stitches.
9. Row 101: *Knit 1, k2tog* repeat to end.
10. Row 102: k2tog across all stitches.
11. Finish: Cut yarn leaving a long tail. Thread through remaining stitches, pull tight, and secure.

Arms (Make 2)

• Cast on 10 stitches using Grey yarn.
• Work 24 rows in Stockinette Stitch.
• Decrease 1 stitch at each end of the next row. (8 sts).
• Purl one row.
• Cast off. Sew the side seam. Stuff the hand area firmly but the upper arm lightly so it lays flat against the body.

The Long Lop Ears (Make 2)

The ears are knitted to match the body color.

• Cast on 14 stitches.
• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) to prevent curling.
• Row 5: Knit 2, Purl 10, Knit 2.
• Row 6: Knit all stitches.
• Repeat Rows 5 and 6 until the ear measures approximately 6 inches.
• Decrease: k2tog at the start of every Knit row until 2 stitches remain. Fasten off.

Part 2: The Trellis Lace Dress

The dress mimics the look of a garden trellis with climbing flowers. It features a lace hem and an embroidered bodice.

The Skirt

Using Grey yarn (or a slightly lighter shade if you prefer contrast), cast on 55 stitches.

The Lace Hem (Old Shale Variation):

1. Row 1 (RS): Knit all stitches.
2. Row 2: Purl all stitches.
3. Row 3: *k2tog, k2tog, (yo, k1) 3 times, yo, k2tog, k2tog* repeat to end.
4. Row 4: Knit all stitches (creates a ridge).
5. Repeat Rows 1-4 three times.

Main Skirt Body:

• Switch to Stockinette Stitch. Work until the skirt measures 3.5 inches from the cast-on edge.
• Waist Decrease: *Knit 3, k2tog* repeat across. (44 sts).
• Purl one row.
• *Knit 2, k2tog* repeat across. (33 sts).
• Purl one row.

The Bodice

• Work 1 inch in Stockinette Stitch.
• Armhole Shaping: Cast off 4 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows. (25 sts).
• Work 6 rows straight.
• Neckline: Knit 6, cast off center 13 stitches, Knit 6. Work one row on each shoulder strap and cast off.

Embroidery: The Clematis Vines

Before seaming the back of the dress, it is easier to embroider.

• Use Green yarn to stitch vines climbing up from the waist to the shoulder on the bodice. Use a stem stitch.
• Use Purple yarn to create 5-petal clematis flowers along the vines. Use lazy daisy stitches for petals.
• Add a tiny French knot in the center of each flower using light yellow or white.

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Part 3: The Cabled Cardigan

The cardigan matches the dress in color but adds texture with cables down the sleeves.

Back Panel

• Cast on 24 stitches in Grey.
• Work 4 rows in K1, P1 ribbing.
• Work 16 rows in Stockinette Stitch.
• Cast off 3 stitches at each end for armholes.
• Work 12 rows. Cast off.

Left Front

• Cast on 14 stitches.
• Work 4 rows ribbing.
• Work in Stockinette Stitch.
• Decoration Note: The front panels are plain stockinette to allow for the heavy floral embroidery shown in the photo.
• Work until height matches the back armhole. Cast off 3 stitches at the armhole edge.
• Work up to the neck. Cast off.

Right Front

Mirror the Left Front instructions.

Cabled Sleeves (Make 2)

This is the defining feature of the cardigan.

• Cast on 16 stitches.
• Work 4 rows ribbing.
• Setup Row: Purl 6, Knit 4, Purl 6.
• Pattern Row 1 (RS): Knit 6, C4F (Cable 4 Front: slip 2 to cable needle, hold in front, k2, k2 from CN), Knit 6.
• Row 2: Purl all stitches.
• Row 3: Knit all stitches.
• Row 4: Purl all stitches.
• Repeat these 4 rows. The cable twist happens every 4th row, creating a rope effect down the center of the sleeve.
• When sleeve measures 2.5 inches, cast off.

Assembly and Cardigan Embroidery

Sew the shoulders, set in the sleeves, and sew the side seams.

Embroidery: This is the “Bloom” part of the name. On both Front panels, embroider a dense climbing vine of clematis flowers using Purple and Green yarn. The vines should look like they are growing up the front opening of the cardigan.

Part 4: The Trellis Bag

This accessory mimics a garden lattice.

1. Using Grey yarn, cast on 20 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): *Knit 2, Purl 2* repeat to end.
3. Row 2: *Knit 2, Purl 2* repeat to end (knit the knits, purl the purls).
4. Row 3: *Purl 2, Knit 2* repeat to end (offsetting the pattern).
5. Row 4: *Purl 2, Knit 2* repeat to end.
6. Repeat these 4 rows to create a “Basketweave” or “Trellis” texture. Work for 4 inches.
7. Cast off.
8. Fold in half and sew side seams.
9. Handles: Knit two I-cords (3 stitches wide) about 3 inches long. Sew to the top rim.
10. Lining (Optional): Cut a small piece of purple felt and sew it inside so small treasures don’t fall out.

Part 5: The Watering Can

A tiny masterpiece of shaping.

• Body: Using Grey yarn and DPNs (or magic loop), cast on 6 stitches. Increase to 18 stitches. Knit in the round for 1.5 inches. Decrease to 12 stitches. Cast off. This forms the cylinder. Stuff firmly. Sew a circle of grey knitting to the bottom and top to close it flat.
• Spout: Pick up 4 stitches on the side of the body near the bottom. Knit an I-cord for 1 inch. Fasten off.
• Rose (Nozzle): Crochet a tiny circle or knit a small bobble and sew it to the end of the spout.
• Handle: Knit an I-cord 2 inches long. Sew one end to the top rim and the other to the back of the body.

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Part 6: Garden Accessories

The Clematis Beret

• Using Grey, cast on 44 stitches.
• Work 6 rows in K1, P1 Ribbing.
• Increase Row: *Knit 1, kfb* repeat to end. (66 sts).
• Work 12 rows in Stockinette Stitch.
• Decrease: *Knit 4, k2tog* around. Purl row. *Knit 3, k2tog* around. Purl row. Continue decreasing until 8 stitches remain. Draw yarn through.
• Decoration: Knit 3 individual clematis flowers (5 petals each) in Purple and sew them to the hat band. Add green leaves.

Purple Mary Jane Shoes

• Using Purple yarn, cast on 14 stitches.
• Work in Garter Stitch for 4 rows (sole).
• Pick up stitches around the sole (approx 30 sts). Work 3 rows Stockinette.
• Toe Shaping: K10, k2tog 5 times, K10.
• Strap: Cast off all stitches except the last 2. Knit an I-cord strap. Sew across the foot.
• Add a tiny white embroidered star/flower on the toe.

Harvest Carrots

• Using Orange/Brown yarn, cast on 3 stitches on DPNs.
• Increase to 9 stitches. Knit 5 rounds.
• Decrease to 6 stitches. Knit 5 rounds.
• Decrease to 3 stitches. Pull tight.
• Tops: Cut strands of green yarn. Thread them through the top of the carrot and knot them to look like leafy greens.

The Pastel Butterfly

• Using Pale Blue yarn.
• Cast on 15 stitches. Knit 1 row.
• Change to Pink. Knit 1 row.
• Change to Pale Yellow. Knit 1 row.
• Cast off.
• Wrap a piece of yarn tightly around the center to cinch it into a butterfly shape. Sew to the bag or the bunny’s hand.

 

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Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The finishing touches are what transform a collection of knitted shapes into a character with a soul.

Seaming and Stuffing

Legs and Body: Use the mattress stitch to sew the back seams. This stitch is invisible on the right side. Start at the heel, go up the leg, and continue up the back of the torso. Pause at the neck opening.

Stuffing: Stuff the feet very firmly to create a flat standing surface. Stuff the legs moderately—too firm and they will stick out; too soft and the bunny will collapse. Stuff the body firmly. Stuff the neck extremely firmly to support the head.

Head and Face Sculpting

Sew the back of the head seam. Stuff the head into a firm sphere.

Eye Sockets: To give the bunny a sweet expression, we create eye sockets. Thread a long needle with grey yarn. Insert at the base of the neck, come out at the left eye position, go back in one stitch over, traverse through the stuffing to the right eye position, go out and back in one stitch over, and return to the neck. Pull the yarn tight to indent the face. Knot securely.

Attaching Features

• Eyes: Insert safety eyes into the indented sockets (or sew on black beads).
• Nose: Use dark brown embroidery thread. Satin stitch a small rounded triangle nose. Stitch a straight line down from the nose to form the mouth.
• Ears: Sew the cast-on edge of the ears to the sides of the head, roughly in line with the eyes. Curve the attachment line slightly to make the ears cup forward.

Dressing

1. Dress: Slip the dress onto the bunny. Close the back seam (or button it).

2. Cardigan: Put the cardigan on. The cabled sleeves should be visible.

3. Hat: Place the beret on the head, tilting it to the side so the flower cluster is prominent.

4. Shoes: Put the purple shoes on the feet.

5. Accessories: Place the trellis bag on the arm and arrange the watering can and carrots nearby.

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Care Notes

The Clematis Trellis-Bloom Bunny is a handcrafted treasure.

• Cleaning: Do not machine wash. The variety of accessories and embroidery makes this risky. Surface clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.
• Pilling: If the grey yarn develops fuzz over time, gently trim it with scissors.
• Sunlight: Keep the bunny out of direct sunlight to preserve the vibrant purple of the clematis flowers.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

1. Ends: Are all yarn ends woven in and hidden inside the body cavity?
2. Stability: Does the head wobble? If so, add more stuffing to the neck through a small seam opening.
3. Safety: Are the eyes secure? If giving to a baby, consider embroidering the eyes instead of using plastic parts.
4. Aesthetics: Is the embroidery on the cardigan symmetrical?

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

For collectors and gift-givers:

• Dusting: Use a soft makeup brush to remove dust from the crevices of the cabled sleeves and the lace hem.
• Storage: If storing long-term, place the bunny in a cotton pillowcase. Add a sachet of lavender or cedar to repel moths, as they are attracted to wool fibers.
• Humidity: Avoid storing in damp areas (like basements) to prevent mildew on the stuffing.
• Refreshing: If the bunny loses its shape after lots of hugs, a gentle massage can redistribute the stuffing and bring it back to life.

We hope you enjoy creating the Clematis Trellis-Bloom Bunny. This project is a celebration of texture, color, and the timeless beauty of a garden in bloom.