Violet Cloudlet Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the serene and dreamy world of the Violet Cloudlet Bunny. This project captures the essence of a quiet twilight garden, where the softest purple hues meet the crisp, clean air of a fading day. Our charming rabbit character is a vision of gentleness, dressed in an ensemble that mirrors the delicate beauty of forest violets and the fluffiness of passing clouds. She is the perfect companion for quiet afternoons and cozy evenings by the window.

To ensure your finished bunny achieves the professional and heirloom-quality finish seen in the photos, we highly recommend visiting your favorite local yarn shop to select the best materials. You will want to buy merino wool yarn in a soft cream or oatmeal shade for the bunny’s skin to create a warm, natural texture that is durable yet soft. For the intricate clothing, such as the floral dress and the lace-detailed cardigan, consider purchasing cotton yarn or a high-quality wool blend to ensure the stitch definition is crisp. Before you begin, check your knitting supplies; ensure you have a set of smooth bamboo knitting needles, a tapestry needle for assembly, and plenty of premium fiberfill. If you are ready to create this magical friend, check your knitting bag and let’s cast on.

 

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 Design Philosophy

The Violet Cloudlet Bunny stands approximately 14 inches tall. The construction is designed to be robust, with the body and head knitted in pieces and seamed to allow for precise shaping of the curves. This traditional method ensures the doll maintains its posture over time, whether she is sitting on a bookshelf or being held during a story.

The wardrobe is a study in texture and botanical elegance. The dress features a deep violet floral band created with stranded colorwork, while the cardigan introduces delicate lace patterns on the yoke. The accessories are narrative-driven, with the tiny purple bee and the floral bouquet adding depth to her character as a gentle garden dweller.

Materials and Tools Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Skin): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Cream, or Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Dress & Shoes): 80g DK weight yarn in Lavender or Soft Violet.
• Yarn C (Cardigan & Bonnet): 60g DK weight yarn in Cream or Ivory.
• Yarn D (Floral Accents): 30g DK weight yarn in Deep Purple and Sage Green.
• Yarn E (Accessories): Small amounts of Purple and White for the bee and flowers.
• Needles: US 3 (3.25mm) straight needles for the main body and clothing.
• Needles (Detailing): US 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature accessories.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, polyester fiberfill, two 9mm safety eyes, small beads for accessories, stitch markers, and small buttons for the shoes.

Gauge and Tension

The target gauge is 24 stitches and 30 rows equal to 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. A firm gauge is essential for the stuffed components. If your fabric is too loose, the stuffing will show through, detracting from the professional finish. If you are a loose knitter, consider sizing down your needles. Consistency is key when making matching limbs.

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• Sts: Stitches
• Inc: Increase (KFB – Knit into front and back of stitch).
• Dec: Decrease (K2tog – Knit 2 together).
• SSK: Slip, Slip, Knit (decrease).
• YO: Yarn Over.
• RS: Right Side
• WS: Wrong Side
• Stockinette Stitch: Knit on the Right Side, Purl on the Wrong Side.

Part 1: Constructing the Bunny Body

We begin by knitting the legs individually to provide a solid foundation. These will then be joined to form the torso and continue seamlessly into the head. This method ensures stability and a beautiful flow to the character’s form.

Legs (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal) and US 3 needles, cast on 12 stitches. Leave a long tail for seaming the foot and back of the leg later.

• Row 1: Purl all stitches across the row to set up the wrong side.
• Row 2 (Increase): Knit into the front and back of every stitch. (24 sts). This creates the base of the foot.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches. Keep tension even to avoid gaps.
• Row 4 (Increase): *K1, Inc*, repeat from * to * to end. (36 sts). This widens the foot.
• Rows 5-9: Work in stockinette stitch starting with a Purl row. This forms the height of the foot.
• Row 10 (Shape Foot): K12, (K2tog) 6 times, K12. (30 sts). This creates the instep and toe area.
• Row 11: Purl all stitches.
• Row 12 (Shape Foot): K9, (K2tog) 6 times, K9. (24 sts). The foot is now taking its final shape.
• Row 13: Purl all stitches.
• Row 14 (Ankle Shaping): K8, (K2tog) 4 times, K8. (20 sts). This defines the leg above the foot.
• Rows 15-42: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This forms the length of the leg. Ensure both legs are identical in length.

Break the yarn for the first leg and place on a stitch holder. Knit the second leg the same way but do not break the yarn; we will use it to join the pieces.

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Torso and Head

With the second leg on your needle, cast on 2 stitches for the crotch, then knit across the 20 stitches of the first leg from the holder.

• Row 43: You should now have 42 stitches on your needle. Ensure both legs are facing forward.
• Row 44: Purl all stitches. Handle the new cast-on stitches carefully to maintain even tension.
• Row 45 (Hip Increase): K10, Inc, K20, Inc, K10. (44 sts). This helps shape the bunny’s seat.
• Row 46: Purl all stitches.
• Row 47 (Hip Increase): K11, Inc, K20, Inc, K11. (46 sts).
• Rows 48-68: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This forms the belly and lower torso. Stuff this area firmly during assembly.
• Row 69 (Decrease): *K8, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to last 6 sts, K6. (42 sts). Beginning the chest shaping.
• Row 70: Purl all stitches.
• Row 71 (Decrease): *K5, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to end. (36 sts).
• Rows 72-76: Work straight in stockinette stitch to elongate the upper body.
• Row 77 (Decrease): *K4, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to end. (30 sts).
• Row 78: Purl all stitches.
• Row 79 (Decrease): *K3, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to end. (24 sts).
• Row 80: Purl all stitches. This row marks the neck line.

Transitioning into the head. The neck must be stuffed very firmly to prevent the head from wobbling once finished.

• Row 81 (Increase): *K1, Inc*, repeat from * to * to end. (36 sts). The head begins to widen.
• Row 82: Purl all stitches.
• Row 83 (Increase): *K2, Inc*, repeat from * to * to end. (48 sts).
• Row 84: Purl all stitches.
• Row 85 (Increase): *K7, Inc*, repeat from * to * to end. (54 sts). This gives the bunny its chubby cheeks.
• Rows 86-106: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This height allows for the placement of safety eyes and a round face.
• Row 107 (Decrease): *K7, K2tog*, repeat to end. (48 sts). Closing the top of the head.
• Row 108: Purl.
• Row 109 (Decrease): *K6, K2tog*, repeat to end. (42 sts).
• Row 111 (Decrease): *K5, K2tog*, repeat to end. (36 sts).
• Row 113 (Decrease): *K4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts).
• Row 114 (Decrease): *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts).
• Row 115 (Decrease): *K2, K2tog*, repeat to end. (18 sts).
• Row 116 (Decrease): *K1, K2tog*, repeat to end. (12 sts).
• Row 117: K2tog across the row. (6 sts).

Cut yarn, leave a long tail. Thread through remaining stitches and pull tight to close. Secure with a knot.

Arms (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal), cast on 10 stitches.

• Row 1: Purl all stitches.
• Row 2 (Increase): Increase in every stitch. (20 sts).
• Rows 3-26: Work in stockinette stitch. This forms the arm length.
• Row 27: *K2, K2tog*, repeat to end. (15 sts). Shaping the shoulder.
• Row 28: Purl all stitches.
• Row 29: K2tog across to last st, K1. (8 sts).

Cut yarn, draw through stitches, and sew side seam. Stuff hand area firmly and upper arm lightly.

Ears (Make 2)

The ears are long and floppy, which is a signature of this bunny’s character. Using Yarn A, cast on 14 stitches.

• Rows 1-42: Work in stockinette stitch. Keep edges neat for seaming.
• Row 43 (Decrease): SSK, K10, K2tog. (12 sts). Tapering the tip.
• Row 44: Purl all stitches.
• Row 45 (Decrease): SSK, K8, K2tog. (10 sts).
• Row 46: Purl all stitches.
• Row 47 (Decrease): SSK, K6, K2tog. (8 sts).
• Row 49 (Decrease): SSK, K4, K2tog. (6 sts).
• Row 51 (Decrease): SSK, K2, K2tog. (4 sts).
• Row 52: K2tog twice. Fasten off.

Part 2: The Violet Floral Dress

This dress features a violet base with a beautiful colorwork band of flowers around the skirt. It is designed to fit snugly over the bunny body.

Skirt with Colorwork Band

Using Yarn B (Lavender), cast on 72 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for a sturdy hem that won’t roll.
• Rows 5-8: Work in stockinette stitch in Yarn B.
• Row 9 (Begin Colorwork): Join Yarn D (Deep Purple) and Yarn E (Green). We will create the flower pattern.

  Pattern: *K3 Lavender, K2 Green, K3 Lavender*, repeat to end.

• Row 10: *P2 Lavender, P4 Green, P2 Lavender*.
• Row 11: *K2 Lavender, K1 Purple, K2 Green, K1 Purple, K2 Lavender*.
• Row 12: *P1 Lavender, P2 Purple, P1 Lavender, P2 Purple, P2 Lavender*.
• Row 13: Break contrast colors. Knit across in Yarn B.
• Rows 14-34: Work in stockinette stitch in Lavender.

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Waist and Bodice

We will now decrease at the waist to create a gathered effect and proceed to the bodice.

• Row 35 (Waist Decrease): *K2, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to end. (54 sts).
• Row 36: Purl all stitches.
• Row 37 (Waist Decrease): *K4, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to end. (45 sts).
• Rows 38-42: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 43 (Armhole Shaping): K8, cast off 4 sts, K21, cast off 4 sts, K8.
• Row 44: P8, cast on 4 sts, P21, cast on 4 sts, P8. (45 sts).
• Rows 45-48: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 49: Knit across (Garter ridge).
• Row 50: Cast off loosely.

Sew the back seam of the skirt up to the waist. Leave the bodice open and attach a small button or snap fastener for dressing.

Part 3: The Cream Lace Cardigan

The cardigan is knitted in Yarn C (Cream) and features a delicate eyelet lace pattern on the yoke and front panels.

Back Panel

Cast on 32 stitches using Yarn C.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for the hem.
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 21 (Armhole): Cast off 3 stitches at start of next 2 rows. (26 sts).
• Rows 23-34: Work straight in stockinette.
• Row 35: Cast off all stitches.

Left Front

Cast on 18 stitches using Yarn C.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Row 5 (Lace Setup): K2, YO, K2tog, K14. (Maintain lace at front edge).
• Rows 6-20: Work in stockinette stitch, repeating eyelet every 6 rows.
• Row 21: Cast off 3 stitches at armhole edge.
• Rows 22-28: Work straight.
• Row 29 (Neck): Cast off 5 stitches at neck edge.
• Row 31: Decrease 1 stitch at neck edge.
• Row 35: Cast off remaining stitches.

Right Front

Work as for Left Front, reversing the shaping for the armhole and neck edge. Add two small embroidered purple stems with leaves on the lower front panels.

Sleeves (Make 2)

Cast on 20 stitches using Yarn C.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch, increasing 1 st at each end of Row 8 and 16. (24 sts).
• Row 21: Cast off.

Sew the cardigan pieces together at shoulders and side seams. Sew sleeves into armholes. Pick up stitches along front and neck and knit 3 rows of garter stitch for the band.

Part 4: The Violet Bonnet

This hat is a classic bonnet style in Yarn B (Lavender) with a cream-colored lace trim around the face.

• Cast On: 50 stitches using Yarn C (Cream).
• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch).
• Row 5 (Picot Edge): *K2tog, YO*, repeat to end. This creates the lace look.
• Row 6: Knit all stitches.
• Change Color: Switch to Yarn B (Lavender).
• Rows 7-20: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 21 (Decrease): *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 23 (Decrease): *K2, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 25 (Decrease): *K1, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 26: K2tog across. Draw yarn through remaining stitches.

Sew the back seam halfway up to create a bonnet shape. Add three small knitted purple flowers and a green leaf to the side of the bonnet.

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Part 5: Violet Mary Jane Shoes

Using Yarn B (Lavender), cast on 12 stitches.

• Sole: Knit 10 rows in Garter Stitch.
• Upper: Pick up 30 stitches around the three sides of the sole rectangle.
• Rows 1-5: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 6 (Toe Shaping): K10, (K2tog) 5 times, K10. (25 sts).
• Row 7: Purl all stitches.
• Row 8 (Toe Shaping): K10, (K2tog) 3 times, K9. (22 sts).
• Row 9: Cast off.

Sew the back heel seam. Crochet or knit a small strap across the instep and sew a small yellow button to the side.

Part 6: Garden Accessories

The Purple Bumblebee

Using Yarn D (Purple) and Yarn C (Cream).

• Body: Cast on 6 stitches in Purple. Inc to 12. Knit 2 rows.
• Stripes: Change to Cream. Knit 2 rows. Change back to Purple. Knit 2 rows. Repeat once more.
• Decrease: Decrease to 6 sts. Draw through and stuff firmly.
• Wings: Knit two small loops in white and sew to the back of the bee.

The Floral Purse

Using Yarn C (Cream) and Yarn B (Lavender).

• Body: Cast on 14 stitches in Lavender. Work in Garter Stitch for 3 inches.
• Assembly: Fold in half and sew side seams.
• Handle: Knit a short I-cord and attach to the top.
• Decoration: Embroider a small violet flower on the front of the bag.

The Lavender Bouquet

• Stems: Knit 3 small green I-cords (3 stitches wide, 2 inches long).
• Flowers: Using Yarn D (Purple), make a small cluster of French knots at the top of each stem.
• Tie the bunch together with a scrap of cream yarn.

Lace Handkerchief

Using Yarn C (Cream).

• Cast on 20 stitches.
• Knit a square in stockinette stitch.
• Border: Pick up stitches around the edge and knit a simple picot bind off.
• Embroider a small purple violet in one corner.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

Assembly is where the personality of your Violet Cloudlet Bunny shines through. Take your time with these final touches.

1. Body: Sew the leg and body seams using a ladder stitch for a seamless look. Stuff the legs and body firmly, ensuring there are no lumps in the padding.
2. Head: Sew the back of the head. Stuff firmly, ensuring the cheeks are symmetrical. Ensure the neck has extra stuffing for support.
3. Face:
   • Eyes: Place safety eyes between rows 90 and 91, approximately 9 stitches apart. If using beads, sew them deeply into the head to create sockets.
   • Nose: Using dark brown embroidery floss, stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth. Satin stitch the top of the “Y” for a soft, triangular nose.
4. Limbs: Sew the arms to the sides of the body just below the neck seam. Attach the ears to the top of the head, angling them slightly forward.

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Handmade items require gentle care to remain beautiful for years to come. Follow these guidelines to preserve your bunny.

• Dusting: Use a soft-bristled brush or a lint roller to remove surface dust regularly.
• Spot Cleaning: Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to gently dab away stains. Do not rub, as this can cause the wool to felt.
• Washing: If a full wash is needed, submerge gently in cool water with wool wash. Rinse by pressing out water—do not wring. Reshape and dry flat on a clean towel away from direct sunlight.
• Moths: Store in a breathable cotton bag with a lavender sachet to keep pests away.

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Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Are all loose ends woven in securely on the inside of the garments?
• Are the safety eyes locked in place and secure?
• Is the bunny’s stuffing even and firm throughout?
• Is the head sitting straight on the neck? (Add more stuffing to the neck if needed).
• Are the small accessories like the bee’s wings securely stitched if intended for a child?

Your Violet Cloudlet Bunny is now complete. This project is a celebration of the quiet beauty found in nature and the comfort of handmade toys. Whether she sits on a shelf as a decoration or is given as a gift to a loved one, she is sure to bring a sense of peace and wonder to her new home.