Carnation Ribbonlight Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the sophisticated and floral-inspired world of the Carnation Ribbonlight Bunny. This project captures the soft elegance of a garden in full bloom, where the ruffled petals of carnations dance in the light. Our bunny is a vision of vintage charm, dressed in delicate shades of peach, cream, and dusty rose.

To begin this journey, you should look to buy high-quality merino yarn that offers a soft touch for the bunny’s skin. Selecting a premium wool blend for the cardigan and skirt will ensure that the intricate floral embroidery and the scalloped hem maintain their beautiful shape over time for your 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 Conceptualization and Design Notes

The Carnation Ribbonlight Bunny is designed as a centerpiece for a nursery or a cherished heirloom. This character stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The design focus is on layered textures, combining smooth stockinette with detailed colorwork and 3D floral appliqués that bring the garden to life.

The construction uses a traditional flat-knitting method on two needles. This allows for precise control over the shaping of the bunny’s curves. Seaming these pieces together provides structural integrity, ensuring the bunny can sit or stand with support. The color palette is carefully chosen to evoke a sense of nostalgic spring.

Before casting on, ensure your knitting needles are smooth and appropriate for DK weight yarn. Having a complete knitting set with stitch markers and a measuring tape will make the process much smoother. This pattern is written for those who enjoy the meditative pace of detailed assembly and surface embellishment.

Materials and Required Supplies

• Yarn A (Bunny Body): 100g DK weight yarn in Cream, Oatmeal, or Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Skirt): 60g DK weight yarn in Pale Peach or Soft Pink.
• Yarn C (Cardigan and Hat): 80g DK weight yarn in Dusty Rose or Mauve.
• Yarn D (Shoes and Purse): 40g DK weight yarn in Ivory or Cream.
• Yarn E (Floral Details): Small amounts of Magenta, Light Pink, and Sage Green.
• Needles: US 3 (3.25mm) straight knitting needles.
• Needles for Details: US 2 (2.75mm) for miniature accessories.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, polyester fiberfill, two 9mm safety eyes, small beads for the dove, and embroidery floss.

Gauge and Fabric Consistency

A consistent gauge is the secret to a professional-looking soft toy. For this project, aim for 24 stitches and 30 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. If your knitting is loose, the stuffing may peek through the stitches, which detracts from the overall finish of the doll.

Always knit a small swatch before starting the main body. If your gauge is too wide, try a smaller needle size. If it is too tight, move up a needle size. Since all the limbs need to be identical, maintaining the same tension throughout the entire project is absolutely essential.

Abbreviations (Standard 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 (left-leaning decrease).
• YO: Yarn Over.
• RS: Right Side.
• WS: Wrong Side.
• Stockinette Stitch: Knit all RS rows, Purl all WS rows.

Part 1: The Bunny Body Construction

We start by creating the foundation of our character. The legs are knitted first, which then join to form the lower torso. This bottom-up approach creates a seamless transition from the hips to the neck, providing a sturdy core for the bunny to maintain its shape over time.

Legs (Create 2)

Using Yarn A (Cream) and US 3 needles, cast on 12 stitches. Leave a long tail of yarn at the start for sewing the foot pads later. The mattress stitch will be used for all seams to ensure they are nearly invisible.

1. Row 1 (WS): Purl all stitches across the row.
2. Row 2 (RS – Increase): Knit into the front and back of every stitch. You will now have 24 stitches. This creates the width of the bunny’s foot.
3. Row 3: Purl all stitches evenly.
4. Row 4 (Increase): *Knit 1, Inc*, repeat from * to * to the end of the row. (36 sts). This provides the chubby, rounded shape seen in the paws.
5. Rows 5-9: Work 5 rows in stockinette stitch, starting with a Purl row.
6. Row 10 (Shape Foot): Knit 12, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 12. (30 sts). This creates the curve of the instep.
7. Row 11: Purl all stitches.
8. Row 12 (Shape Foot): Knit 9, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 9. (24 sts). The foot is now tapering toward the ankle.
9. Row 13: Purl all stitches.
10. Row 14 (Ankle Shaping): Knit 8, (K2tog) 4 times, Knit 8. (20 sts).
11. Rows 15-42: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This long section forms the leg. Ensure the tension matches on both legs.

Break the yarn for the first leg and place the 20 stitches on a holder. Complete the second leg in the same manner, but do not break the yarn. We will use the working yarn from the second leg to join both pieces together.

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Torso and Neck

With the second leg on your needle and the RS facing you, cast on 2 stitches for the crotch space. Then, knit across the 20 stitches of the first leg from the holder. You should now have a total of 42 stitches on your needle.

1. Row 44 (WS): Purl all stitches. Handle the join between the legs carefully to prevent gaps.
2. Row 45 (Hip Increase): Knit 10, Inc, Knit 20, Inc, Knit 10. (44 sts).
3. Row 46: Purl all stitches.
4. Row 47 (Hip Increase): Knit 11, Inc, Knit 20, Inc, Knit 11. (46 sts).
5. Rows 48-68: Work in stockinette stitch. This area forms the tummy. Stuffing this part firmly later is vital for the bunny’s seated posture.
6. Row 69 (Decrease): *Knit 8, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to last 6 stitches, Knit 6. (42 sts).
7. Row 70: Purl all stitches.
8. Row 71 (Decrease): *Knit 5, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to end. (36 sts).
9. Rows 72-76: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
10. Row 77 (Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts).
11. Row 79 (Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts).
12. Row 80: Purl all stitches. This marks the neck line.

The Rabbit Head

Continuing directly from the neck, we will widen the stitches again to create the head. It is important to stuff the neck extremely firmly during the assembly phase to support the weight of the head and prevent it from drooping.

1. Row 81 (Increase): *Knit 1, Inc*, repeat to end. (36 sts).
2. Row 82: Purl all stitches.
3. Row 83 (Increase): *Knit 2, Inc*, repeat to end. (48 sts).
4. Row 85 (Increase): *Knit 7, Inc*, repeat to end. (54 sts). This creates the chubby cheek area.
5. Rows 86-106: Work in stockinette stitch. This provides height for the facial features.
6. Row 107 (Decrease): *Knit 7, K2tog*, repeat to end. (48 sts).
7. Row 109 (Decrease): *Knit 6, K2tog*, repeat to end. (42 sts).
8. Row 111 (Decrease): *Knit 5, K2tog*, repeat to end. (36 sts).
9. Row 113 (Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts).
10. Row 114 (Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts).
11. Row 115 (Decrease): *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat to end. (18 sts).
12. Row 116 (Decrease): *Knit 1, K2tog*, repeat to end. (12 sts).
13. Row 117: K2tog across. (6 sts).

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread it through the remaining loops and pull tight to close the top of the head. Secure it with a knot and weave the tail inside the head. This completes the main body structure.

Arms (Create 2)

Using Yarn A, cast on 10 stitches. The arms are designed to be slightly shorter than the legs, providing a balanced, cute silhouette. They will be attached just below the neck seam after the body is stuffed.

• Row 1: Purl all stitches.
• Row 2 (Increase): Increase into every stitch across the row. (20 sts).
• Rows 3-26: Work in stockinette stitch. Ensure both arms are exactly the same length.
• Row 27: *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat across. (15 sts). This shapes the upper arm near the shoulder.
• Row 28: Purl all stitches.
• Row 29: K2tog across the row to the last stitch, Knit 1. (8 sts).

Fasten off and leave a long tail for seaming. Stuff the hand area firmly and the upper arm lightly to allow the arm to hang naturally at the bunny’s side.

Floppy Ears (Create 2)

The ears are a signature feature of the Ribbonlight Bunny. They are long and wide, worked flat, and then folded at the base during the final assembly to create the classic floppy appearance seen in the reference image.

• Rows 1-42: Cast on 14 stitches with Yarn A. Work in stockinette stitch. Keep the edges neat for seaming.
• Row 43 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 10, K2tog. (12 sts).
• Row 45 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 8, K2tog. (10 sts).
• Row 47 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 6, K2tog. (8 sts).
• Row 49 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 4, K2tog. (6 sts).
• Row 51 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 2, K2tog. (4 sts).
• Row 52: K2tog twice. (2 sts).

Fasten off and draw the yarn through the final stitches. Use the tail to sew the long edges of the ears together. Do not stuff the ears; they need to remain flat and soft to drape beautifully.

Part 2: The Carnation Pink Skirt

The skirt features a beautiful scalloped hem and a band of carnation colorwork. We use Yarn B (Pale Peach) as the main color and Yarn E (Magenta/Green) for the floral motifs. This garment is the highlight of the bunny’s outfit.

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Scalloped Hem (Picot Cast-On)

To achieve the dainty scalloped edge, we will use a picot cast-on. This creates a professional, decorative finish that won’t roll. Alternatively, you can knit a hem and sew it down later to create the same effect.

• Cast on 72 stitches using Yarn B.
• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for a stable base.
• Row 5 (Picot Row): *K2tog, YO*, repeat from * to * across the entire row.
• Row 6: Knit all stitches. You will now see the small eyelet holes that will form the scallops once the fabric is folded.

The Floral Colorwork Band

We will now introduce the colorwork. This requires carrying Yarn E (Green and Magenta) across the back of the work. Keep your floats loose to prevent the skirt from puckering or becoming too tight to fit the bunny.

• Rows 7-8: Work in stockinette stitch using Yarn B only.
• Row 9 (Begin Stems): Join Yarn E (Green). *K3 B, K1 E, K4 B*, repeat across the row.
• Row 10: Purl row, following the colors established in the previous row.
• Row 11 (Flower Base): Join Yarn E (Magenta). *K2 B, K3 Magenta, K3 B*, repeat across.
• Row 12: Purl row, making the magenta clusters wider to form the ruffled carnation shape.
• Rows 13-14: Continue the flower pattern, making the magenta area 3 rows high in total.
• Row 15: Break contrast yarns and continue in Yarn B only.

Waist Shaping and Bodice

Once the colorwork is finished, we will work straight in stockinette stitch until the skirt reaches the desired length, then decrease at the waist to create the gathered look seen in the photo.

• Rows 16-34: Work in stockinette stitch using Yarn B.
• Row 35 (Waist Decrease): *K2, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end of the row. (54 sts).
• Row 36: Purl all stitches across.
• Row 37 (Waist Decrease): *K4, K2tog*, repeat across. (45 sts).
• Rows 38-42: Work 5 rows in stockinette stitch to form the bodice.
• Row 43 (Armhole Shaping): Knit 8, cast off 4 sts, Knit 21, cast off 4 sts, Knit 8.
• Row 44: Purl 8, cast on 4 sts, Purl 21, cast on 4 sts, Purl 8. (45 sts).
• Row 49: Knit across the row to create a small garter ridge at the neckline.
• Row 50: Cast off all stitches loosely.

Sew the back seam of the skirt up to the waistline. Leave the bodice open to allow for easy dressing. You will attach a small snap fastener or a tiny button at the back of the neck later.

Part 3: The Dusty Rose Wrap Cardigan

The cardigan is a unique “wrap” style that crosses over the chest. It is knitted in Yarn C (Dusty Rose/Mauve) and features delicate floral embroidery along the edges of the front panels to match the skirt’s carnations.

Back Panel

Cast on 32 stitches using Yarn C. The back is worked straight to provide a solid base for the garment’s structure. We use a garter stitch hem to match the other outfit components.

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

Front Panels (Create 2)

The front panels are shaped to overlap. Cast on 20 stitches. We will work the left front first and then mirror the instructions for the right front. The shaping happens on the neck edge.

1. Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch).
2. Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch. On every 4th row, decrease 1 stitch at the center front edge to create the diagonal wrap slope.
3. Row 21: Cast off 3 stitches at the armhole edge.
4. Rows 22-34: Continue the neck edge decreases while keeping the armhole edge straight until approximately 8 stitches remain.
5. Row 35: Cast off all stitches.

Sleeves (Create 2)

The sleeves are straight and simple, designed to fit comfortably over the bunny’s arms. Cast on 20 stitches using Yarn C. Ensure the tension matches the body of the cardigan.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch. Increase 1 stitch at each end of the row on Row 8 and Row 16. (24 sts).
• Row 21: Cast off all stitches.

Finishing the Cardigan: Sew the shoulder and side seams. Sew the sleeve seams and attach them to the armholes. Pick up stitches along the front opening and the neck. Knit 3 rows in garter stitch to create a neat border. Embroider small magenta rosebuds and green leaves on the front panels.

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Part 4: The Mauve Cloche Hat

The hat is a classic cloche style that fits snugly over the head, matching the color of the cardigan. It is decorated with a large, multi-layered knitted carnation flower on one side.

• Brim: Cast on 60 stitches using Yarn C. Knit 6 rows in Garter Stitch to create a sturdy, textured brim that frames the face.
• Crown: Switch to stockinette stitch. Work 12 rows straight.
• Row 19 (Decrease): *Knit 6, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end of the row.
• Row 20: Purl all stitches.
• Row 21 (Decrease): *Knit 5, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 23 (Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 25 (Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 27 (Decrease): *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 28: K2tog across the row.

Cut the yarn and draw it through the remaining stitches. Sew the back seam. To make the 3D flowers, cast on 40 stitches using Yarn E. Work 2 rows of garter stitch, then *K2tog* across the next row. Fasten off and roll the strip into a rosette. Sew 3 of these flowers to the side of the hat.

Part 5: Mary Jane Shoes

The shoes are knitted in Yarn D (Ivory) to provide a light contrast to the mauve and pink tones. They feature a strap across the instep and a tiny magenta flower on the toe.

1. Sole: Cast on 12 stitches. Knit 10 rows in Garter Stitch to form a rectangular base.
2. Upper: Pick up 30 stitches around the three sides of the rectangle (left side, front, and right side).
3. Rows 1-5: Work in stockinette stitch.
4. Row 6 (Toe Shaping): Knit 10, (K2tog) 5 times, Knit 10. (25 sts). This rounds the front of the shoe.
5. Row 7: Purl all stitches.
6. Row 8 (Toe Shaping): Knit 10, (K2tog) 3 times, Knit 9. (22 sts).
7. Row 9: Cast off all stitches.

Sew the back heel seam. Use a tapestry needle and a strand of Ivory yarn to create a strap across the top of the foot. Knit a tiny flower using a single magenta bobble and sew it to the center of the toe.

Part 6: Handheld and Scene Accessories

The accessories add a layer of storytelling to the project. We will create the floral purse, the white dove, the bow, and the bouquet. These details make the Ribbonlight Bunny a truly special creation.

The Carnation Purse

This accessory is knitted in Yarn D (Ivory) and features a central carnation motif. It uses a “clasp” construction to look like a vintage handbag.

• Body: Cast on 16 stitches. Work 4 inches in Garter Stitch to create a long rectangle.
• Sides: Fold the rectangle in half and sew the side seams using a mattress stitch.
• Handle: Knit a short I-cord (3 stitches wide, 4 inches long) and attach it to the top corners.
• Decoration: Embroider a large magenta carnation in the center of the bag using satin stitches and French knots. Add two green leaves at the base.

The Little White Dove

The dove is a symbol of peace that sits beside the bunny. Use Yarn D (Ivory/White) and US 2 needles for a tighter fabric. The body and head are worked as one piece.

• Body: Cast on 10 stitches. Increase to 20 stitches. Work 6 rows in stockinette.
• Tail: Knit across 5 stitches, work 4 rows, then decrease to a point. Cast off.
• Head: Pick up stitches at the front of the body. Knit a small sphere. Sew on two tiny black beads for eyes.
• Wings: Knit two small triangles and sew them to the sides of the body.
• Bow: Tie a tiny piece of pink ribbon or knit a tiny pink strip around the dove’s neck as shown in the photo.

The Decorative Bow

A separate knitted bow sits on the table in the reference image. Use Yarn B (Peach). This is a simple piece that adds to the aesthetic of the scene.

• Cast on 12 stitches. Work 15 rows in Garter Stitch. Cast off.
• Pinch the center of the rectangle and wrap a strand of yarn around it tightly several times to create the bow shape.
• Secure the back with a knot. This can be pinned to the bunny or used as a loose prop.

Carnation Bouquet

Using Yarn E (Magenta, Pink, Green). This accessory is held by the bunny or placed next to her. The flowers are created similarly to the hat decorations but on long stems.

• Stems: Knit 3 or 4 Green I-cords (3 stitches wide, 5 inches long).
• Flower Heads: Using Magenta and Light Pink yarn, create small ruffled rosettes. Cast on 15 stitches, work 2 rows, draw the yarn through all stitches, and pull tight.
• Assembly: Sew a flower head to the top of each green stem. Tie the bunch together with a scrap of cream yarn to create a bouquet.

Lace Handkerchief

Using Yarn D (Ivory). This square piece features a decorative lace border.

• Cast on 20 stitches. Knit a square in stockinette stitch.
• Border: Pick up stitches all around the four edges.
• Lace Row: *YO, K2tog*, repeat around. Cast off loosely. This creates the delicate eyelet edge seen in the reference photo.

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Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The assembly process is where your bunny truly develops its personality. Take your time with these steps, as the placement of the eyes and the firmness of the stuffing define the character’s expression.

1. Seaming the Body: Use a ladder stitch for all main body seams. Begin with the legs, stuffing them firmly as you sew upward. Move to the torso, ensuring the stuffing is distributed evenly to avoid any lumps.
2. Stuffing the Neck: The neck is the weakest point of any knitted toy. Insert extra fiberfill into the neck column to ensure it is rigid enough to support the head and the heavy knitted hat.
3. Face Placement:
   • Eyes: Insert the 9mm safety eyes between rows 90 and 91 of the head, approximately 9 stitches apart. Ensure they are level before locking them into place.
   • Nose: Using dark brown embroidery floss, stitch a small “Y” shape in the center of the face. The top of the “Y” should be a small satin-stitched triangle for the nose.
   • Cheeks: (Optional) Use a small amount of pink blush or a pink colored pencil to add a soft glow to the cheeks, as seen in the image.
4. Attaching Limbs: Sew the arms to the sides of the body just below the neck seam. Attach the ears to the top of the head. Fold the bottom 2 stitches of the ears together before sewing to give them a natural “folded” look.
5. Dressing the Bunny: Put on the skirt first, securing the back with a snap. Place the wrap cardigan over the bunny and tie it at the back. Place the hat on the head, ensuring the flowers are visible on the side.

Care Notes

Because this project is made from natural fibers and features extensive hand-embroidery, it requires gentle handling. If the bunny is meant for a small child, ensure all beads and safety eyes are extremely secure. If the doll is for display, dusting with a soft brush once a month is sufficient.

Avoid pulling on the colorwork floats inside the skirt, as this can distort the floral pattern on the outside. If the bunny becomes flattened after a lot of hugging, you can gently massage the stuffing through the knitted fabric to restore its original shape.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Are the safety eyes locked securely in place?
• Are all loose yarn ends woven deeply into the stuffing?
• Is the neck firm enough to keep the head upright?
• Are the 3D flowers on the hat and bouquet securely stitched so they don’t fall off?
• Does the bunny stand or sit evenly without leaning to one side?

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

To keep your Carnation Ribbonlight Bunny in pristine condition for years to come, follow these cleaning guidelines. Hand washing is the only recommended method for this handmade item. Never place the bunny or its clothes in a washing machine, as the agitation can cause the wool to felt and the embroidery to unravel.

If the bunny becomes soiled, spot clean the area using a damp cloth and a very small amount of mild wool detergent. Gently dab the stain; do not rub, as rubbing will cause pilling on the surface of the knit. For a deeper clean, submerge the bunny in cool water with a specialized wool wash. Press the water out gently with a towel—never wring or twist the doll.

Reshape the bunny while it is damp and allow it to dry flat on a clean towel away from direct sunlight. High heat from a dryer or radiator can damage the fibers and cause the colors to fade. Store the bunny in a breathable cotton bag if it is being put away for the season, and include a cedar block or lavender sachet to protect it from pests.

Your Carnation Ribbonlight Bunny is now complete. This project is a celebration of the quiet beauty found in the garden and the timeless art of hand-knitting. Whether she sits on a shelf or becomes a lifelong friend, she is sure to bring a touch of floral magic to her new home.