Nasturtium Prairie-Tier Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the serene and pastoral world of the Nasturtium Prairie-Tier Bunny. This project captures the essence of a quiet afternoon in a sun-drenched meadow, where the tall grass sways and bright nasturtiums climb vintage garden fences. Our gentle rabbit character is a vision of cottagecore elegance, reflecting the warm tones of autumn and spring.

To ensure your finished bunny achieves the professional and high-quality finish seen in these designs, we highly recommend that you buy merino wool yarn in a soft oatmeal shade. Selecting the best knitting supplies from a reputable yarn store will help you create the intricate tiered textures of the dress. This character makes a wonderful handmade gift for collectors who appreciate fine details and the timeless art of purchasing high-quality needles for their craft.

 

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 Philosophy

The Nasturtium Prairie-Tier Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The design philosophy centers on “Rustic Sophistication,” combining soft, natural base tones with the vibrant, energetic pops of orange and gold found in heirloom nasturtium flowers. This bunny is not just a toy; she is a representation of the artistry and patience found in hand-knitting.

The construction uses a traditional flat-knitting method on two needles. This approach is highly effective for achieving the precise shaping required for the bunny’s rounded cheeks and slender limbs. Seaming these pieces together provides a sturdy skeletal structure, ensuring the doll maintains its elegant posture whether it is sitting on a wooden bench or displayed on a nursery shelf.

The wardrobe is the centerpiece of this design. The “Prairie-Tier” dress features a unique two-layer construction. The upper tier serves as the bodice and a short lace-detailed overskirt, while the lower tier provides the main volume and acts as a canvas for a complex stranded colorwork floral band. This layered look evokes vintage apron dresses from the late 19th century.

The sage green cardigan adds a layer of tactile softness, utilizing a classic stockinette body with hand-embroidered floral accents on the front panels. Every component, from the ruffled sun hat to the tiny sheep companion in her own floral dress, is designed to create a rich, narrative-driven scene. Consistency in your stitch tension is the most important factor in achieving the professional finish.

Yarn and Essential Materials Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Body): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Warm Sand, or Light Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Dress Base & Hat): 100g DK weight yarn in Antique Cream, Ivory, or Natural White.
• Yarn C (Cardigan): 60g DK weight yarn in Sage Green, Muted Willow, or Celadon.
• Yarn D (Colorwork & Embroidery): 30g DK weight yarn in Bright Orange, Clementine, and Golden Yellow.
• Yarn E (Foliage): 20g DK weight yarn in Forest Green or Deep Moss.
• Yarn F (Sheep Companion): 40g DK weight yarn in Natural Cream and Taupe for the face.
• Yarn G (Basket & Shoes): 40g DK weight yarn in Cinnamon, Camel, or Cocoa Brown.
• Needles: US size 3 (3.25mm) straight needles for the main bunny and clothing.
• Detail Needles: US size 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature sheep and tiny accessories.
• Stuffing: High-quality polyester fiberfill for a firm and balanced feel.
• Eyes: Two 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny; two small 4mm beads for the sheep.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, and black/brown embroidery floss.

Gauge and Technical Tension Guidelines

For this specific doll, the target gauge should be 24 stitches and 30 rows over a 4-inch (10 cm) square in stockinette stitch. Maintaining a firm tension is vital when knitting stuffed toys. If the fabric is too loose, the white fiberfill will show through the stitches, which detracts from the professional look.

If you find that your knitting style is naturally loose, we strongly suggest moving down a needle size. Conversely, if your fabric is stiff and difficult to manipulate, move up a size. Testing your gauge before beginning the legs will ensure that all the tailored clothing, especially the fitted tiered dress, fits the bunny perfectly.

Consistency is your best friend during this project. When making the two legs or the two arms, try to knit them in the same sitting if possible. This helps maintain the same hand tension, ensuring that the limbs are identical in length and width, allowing the bunny to stand or sit symmetrically. Take your time with each stitch.

Common Abbreviations (US Standard)

• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• Sts: Stitches
• Inc: Increase (KFB – Knit into the front and then the back of the same stitch).
• Dec: Decrease (K2tog – Knit 2 stitches together).
• SSK: Slip, Slip, Knit (a left-leaning decrease for shaping).
• RS: Right Side (the public side of the fabric).
• WS: Wrong Side (the side that will be inside the toy).
• St st: Stockinette Stitch (Knit on RS rows, Purl on WS rows).
• YO: Yarn Over (to create eyelets).

Part 1: The Bunny Body Foundation

We begin the construction by knitting the legs individually. These will later be joined at the center to form the lower torso. This bottom-up method provides the necessary stability for the weight of the bunny and ensures a smooth, continuous fabric from the hips up to the neck area.

Knitting the Legs (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal) and your US 3 needles, cast on 12 stitches. Leave a long tail of yarn at the start. This tail will be used for sewing the foot pads during the assembly phase. We will use the mattress stitch for all seams to keep the finish nearly invisible and professional.

• Row 1 (WS): Purl across all stitches to set the foundation.
• Row 2 (RS): Knit into the front and back of every stitch (KFB) across the entire row. (24 sts). This rapid increase creates the base of the foot.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches evenly, maintaining your firm hand tension.
• Row 4: *Knit 1, KFB*, repeat from * to end of row. (36 sts). This rounds the foot.
• Rows 5-9: Work 5 rows in stockinette stitch, starting with a Purl row on the WS.
• Row 10 (Shape Instep): Knit 12, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 12. (30 sts). This forms the front curve.
• Row 11: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 12: Knit 9, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 9. (24 sts). The ankle is now beginning to form.
• Row 13: Purl all stitches. Keep the tension tight to avoid gaps at the decreases.
• Row 14: Knit 8, (K2tog) 4 times, Knit 8. (20 sts). This defines the leg shape clearly.
• Rows 15-42: Work straight in stockinette stitch. Measure frequently to ensure both legs are identical.

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Once you reach row 42 on the first leg, break the yarn and place the 20 stitches on a holder. Complete the second leg in the exact same manner, but do not break the yarn. We will use the working yarn from the second leg to join the pieces and start the torso.

Joining the Torso and Neck

With the RS of the second leg facing you, cast on 2 stitches for the crotch area, then knit across the 20 stitches of the first leg from the stitch holder. You should now have 42 stitches on your needle. Handle the join carefully to prevent large gaps from forming between the legs.

• Row 44 (WS): Purl all stitches, including the two new cast-on stitches at the center.
• Row 45: Knit 10, Inc, Knit 20, Inc, Knit 10. (44 sts). This adds volume to the hips.
• Row 46: Purl all stitches evenly across the entire row.
• Row 47: Knit 11, Inc, Knit 20, Inc, Knit 11. (46 sts). This completes the hip shaping.
• Rows 48-68: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This long section forms the bunny’s tummy area.
• Row 69: *Knit 8, K2tog*, repeat to last 6 sts, Knit 6. (42 sts). Starting the chest taper.
• Row 70: Purl all stitches. Maintain your focus on the consistent stitch count.
• Row 71: *Knit 5, K2tog*, repeat to end of row. (36 sts). The chest is narrowing.
• Rows 72-76: Work straight in stockinette stitch to provide height to the upper torso.
• Row 77: *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts). Almost at the neck.
• Row 78: Purl all stitches.
• Row 79: *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts). Final torso shaping.
• Row 80: Purl across. This row represents the neck line where the head begins.

Part 2: The Bunny Head and Features

The head is worked as a direct continuation of the neck. It is vital to stuff the neck column extremely firmly during assembly so that the head remains upright. The head is shaped with rapid increases to create the chubby, endearing cheeks that define our bunny’s personality and character.

• Row 81 (RS): *Knit 1, Inc*, repeat to the end of the row. (36 sts).
• Row 82: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 83: *Knit 2, Inc*, repeat to the end of the row. (48 sts).
• Row 84: Purl all stitches. The fabric is expanding for the face.
• Row 85: *Knit 7, Inc*, repeat to end. (54 sts). The cheeks are now fully established.
• Rows 86-106: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This provides the height for safety eye placement.
• Row 107: *Knit 7, K2tog*, repeat to end. (48 sts). Starting the top of the head.
• Row 108: Purl all stitches.
• Row 109: *Knit 6, K2tog*, repeat to end. (42 sts).
• Row 110: Purl all stitches.
• Row 111: *Knit 5, K2tog*, repeat to end. (36 sts).
• Row 112: Purl all stitches.
• Row 113: *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts).
• Row 114: Purl all stitches.
• Row 115: *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts).
• Row 116: Purl all stitches.
• Row 117: *Knit 1, K2tog*, repeat to end. (16 sts).
• Row 118: K2tog across the entire row. (8 sts).

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail for finishing. Use a tapestry needle to thread the tail through the remaining 8 stitches and pull tight to close the crown of the head. Secure the end firmly and hide the tail inside the head structure. This completes the core bunny anatomy.

The Gentle Arms (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal), cast on 10 stitches. The arms are designed to be soft and flexible so they can hold the nasturtium bouquet or the companion sheep. Ensure your tension matches the legs perfectly to maintain a professional look throughout the assembly process for your finished toy.

• Row 1: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 2: Increase in every stitch across the row. (20 sts).
• Rows 3-26: Work in stockinette stitch. Measure frequently to ensure both arms are identical.
• Row 27: *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat across the row. (15 sts). Shaping the upper shoulder.
• Row 28: Purl across all stitches.
• Row 29: K2tog across the row to the last stitch, Knit 1. (8 sts).

Fasten off and leave a long tail. Sew the side seam and stuff the hand area firmly. Leave the upper shoulder area lightly stuffed to allow the arm to hang naturally by the bunny’s side, creating a relaxed and inviting prairie posture for the character’s presentation and feel.

The Floppy Ears (Make 2)

The ears are a large and iconic part of this design. They are worked flat and then folded at the base during attachment. Using Yarn A, cast on 14 stitches. These should be knitted with a relaxed but consistent tension to allow natural drape as seen in the image.

• Rows 1-42: Work in stockinette stitch. Keep the side edges very neat.
• Row 43: SSK, Knit 10, K2tog. (12 sts). Starting the rounded tip.
• Row 44: Purl all stitches across.
• Row 45: SSK, Knit 8, K2tog. (10 sts).
• Row 46: Purl all stitches.
• Row 47: SSK, Knit 6, K2tog. (8 sts).
• Row 48: Purl all stitches.
• Row 49: SSK, Knit 4, K2tog. (6 sts).
• Row 50: Purl all stitches.
• Row 51: SSK, Knit 2, K2tog. (4 sts).
• Row 52: K2tog twice. (2 sts).

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Fasten off and draw the yarn through the final stitches. Sew the long edges together using a ladder stitch. Do not stuff the ears; they need to remain soft and flat to look authentic. Set these aside for the final assembly phase once the body is stuffed.

Part 3: The Prairie-Tier Wardrobe

The wardrobe for the Nasturtium Bunny is where the project truly shines. We will create the layered dress, the embroidered cardigan, the ruffled hat, and the accessories. This combination creates a look that is both vintage and timelessly stylish, fitting perfectly in a garden studio or meadow.

The Tiered Dress – Upper Bodice and Eyelet Tier

The dress is worked in two main pieces: the bodice with the attached eyelet tier, and the lower skirt with floral colorwork. Using Yarn B (Cream), we start by creating the bodice. This piece features a beautiful lace eyelet pattern that suggests a delicate overskirt or apron.

• Cast on 44 stitches. Work 4 rows in Garter Stitch.
• Bodice: Work 15 rows in stockinette stitch.
• Armholes: Work 10 sts, cast off 4, Work 16 sts, cast off 4, Work 10 sts.
• Shoulders: Work each section for 6 rows and cast off. Sew the shoulders.
• The Eyelet Tier: Pick up 44 stitches at the waistline.
• Row 1 (RS): Knit across, increasing into every stitch. (88 sts).
• Row 2 (WS): Purl across.
• Lace Row: *Knit 2, YO, K2tog*, repeat from * across. This creates the decorative eyelets.
• Rows 6-12: Work in stockinette stitch. Cast off loosely.

The Tiered Dress – Lower Skirt and Colorwork

The lower skirt is the canvas for our nasturtium motif. We will use stranded colorwork to create the vibrant orange flowers. Using Yarn B, cast on 90 stitches. We work from the hem upward, allowing the weight of the colorwork to help the dress hang beautifully.

• Hem: Work 4 rows in Garter Stitch for stability.
• Colorwork Setup: Work 6 rows in stockinette stitch using Yarn B.
• Floral Band: Join Yarn D (Orange) and Yarn E (Green).
  • Following a checkerboard pattern, work green stems and orange petals.
  • Pattern: *Knit 3 Cream, Knit 2 Green (Leaf), Knit 1 Orange (Flower), Knit 2 Cream*.
  • Ensure your floats on the back are loose so the skirt remains stretchy.
• Skirt Body: Continue in Cream for 12 rows.
• Waist: *K2tog* across the entire row. (45 sts). Cast off.
• Assembly: Sew the lower skirt to the underside of the bodice waistline, tucked under the eyelet tier.

The Sage Green Cardigan

The cardigan is a cozy addition, worked in Yarn C. It features long sleeves and an open front. After knitting, we will add hand-embroidered nasturtiums to the front panels to match the dress. This piece provides a beautiful contrast to the ivory tones of the dress.

• Back: Cast on 28 sts. Work 22 rows stockinette. Cast off.
• Fronts (Make 2): Cast on 14 sts. Work 22 rows, decreasing 1 st at neck edge every RS row for the last 6 rows.
• Sleeves (Make 2): Cast on 16 sts. Work 15 rows. Cast off.
• Finishing: Sew the seams. Pick up stitches along the opening and knit 3 rows in Garter Stitch.
• Embroidery: Use Yarn D and E to stitch three orange flower heads and green leaves on each front panel near the chest area.

Part 4: The Finishing Accessories

The accessories add the final layer of storytelling to the Nasturtium Bunny. We will create the ruffled sun hat, the two-tone Mary Jane shoes, and the essential props. These details transform the bunny from a simple doll into a character with a history and purpose.

The Ruffled Sun Hat

Using Yarn B (Cream), we will create a hat that frames the bunny’s face. The ruffle is the key feature here. We will start at the crown and work downward to the brim, where we will significantly increase the stitch count to create the wavy, ruffled edge.

• Crown: Cast on 8 stitches. Increase into every stitch (16 sts).
• Row 3: *K1, Inc*, repeat to end (24 sts).
• Row 5: *K2, Inc*, repeat to end (32 sts).
• Rows 7-15: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Brim Setup: Knit every stitch across the row (RS).
• The Ruffle: In the next row, *KFB into every stitch*. (64 sts).
• Row 18: Knit every stitch. This creates the undulating shape.
• Row 19: Cast off loosely.
• Decoration: Knit or crochet a 3D orange nasturtium and sew it to the side of the hat.

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Two-Tone Mary Jane Shoes

The shoes are worked in Yarn B (Cream) and Yarn G (Cinnamon). They feature a sturdy sole and a strap that crosses over the foot. We will add a small orange stitch on the toe of each shoe to tie the color scheme together beautifully.

• Sole: Using Yarn G, cast on 10 sts. Knit 12 rows.
• Upper: Pick up 32 sts around the edge of the sole using Yarn B.
• Rows 1-4: Work in St st.
• Row 5: Knit 10, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 10. (26 sts).
• Strap: Cast on 12 sts separately. Knit 2 rows. Cast off.
• Finishing: Sew the strap to the shoe and add a tiny button.

The Woven Satchel and Field Props

Our bunny is a gardener and a researcher. We will create a brown satchel using Yarn G and include her field journal and a pencil. These props give the character a sense of adventure and provide a wonderful tactile experience for whoever holds the toy.

• Bag: Cast on 16 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 5 inches. Fold in half and sew side seams. Add a long I-cord strap.
• Journal: Knit a small cream rectangle. Fold in half and sew small pieces of paper inside. Use Yarn D to embroider a flower on the cover.
• Pencil: Use a scrap of tan yarn. Cast on 4 stitches. Knit 1 inch. Change to pink (eraser) for 2 rows. Change to grey (lead) for 1 row. Draw through.

The Sheep Companion: A Tiny Meadow Friend

Every prairie bunny needs a loyal companion. Our tiny sheep is knitted in Yarn F (Cream) with a taupe face. She wears her own simplified version of the bunny’s dress. This detail elevates the entire set into a complete storytelling scene for your display.

• Body: Cast on 10 stitches. Work in Garter Stitch to create a “woolly” texture. Increase to 20 stitches. Work 10 rows. Decrease to 10. Draw through.
• Face: Using Taupe, pick up 8 stitches at the front. Knit 4 rows and close. Sew on small beads for eyes.
• Limbs: Knit 4 short I-cords in Taupe and sew to the body.
• Sheep’s Dress: Using a scrap of floral cotton fabric or a tiny knitted rectangle, wrap around the sheep’s middle and secure. Add a small bow at the neck.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The assembly is the most important step in giving your character its personality. Take your time to align the features symmetrically and ensure all seaming is tight and neat. A well-assembled doll is the difference between a project and an heirloom for your collection.

1. Body Seaming: Use a mattress stitch to sew the legs and torso. Stuff the legs firmly to allow for a sturdy standing pose. The tummy should be rounded and soft. Ensure the neck is reinforced with extra stuffing to support the head properly and avoid wobbling.
2. Head Seaming: Sew the back of the head. Before closing, place the safety eyes between rows 90 and 91, approximately 9 stitches apart. Ensure they are level. Stuff the head firmly, shaping the cheeks as you go.
3. Face Detailing:
   • Embroider the nose using dark brown floss. Create a small “Y” shape for the mouth.
   • (Optional) Add a touch of pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks for a healthy, garden-fresh glow.
4. Limbs and Ears: Sew the arms just below the neck line. Fold the base of the ears and sew them to the top of the head so they flop naturally to the sides, framing the ruffled sun hat.
5. Dressing: Put on the prairie-tier dress first. Secure the cardigan over the top. Place the hat on the head, ensuring the 3D flower is visible. Secure the Mary Janes. Arrange the sheep, bag, and props.

Care Notes for Your Heirloom Bunny

Your Nasturtium Prairie-Tier Bunny is a delicate piece of artisan craft. Because of the intricate floral embroidery and the small accessory pieces, it is not intended for rough play. It is best suited as a decorative item for a nursery, studio, or collector’s shelf in your home.

Over time, high-quality wool can develop a slight fuzz or “pilling.” This is a natural characteristic of the natural fiber. You can gently remove any pilling using a small pair of embroidery scissors to keep the bunny looking fresh and new. Always keep the doll in a dry environment.

If the bunny is meant for a young child, please ensure all safety eyes are locked securely and that the tiny accessories (like the pencil or beads) are double-stitched to the bunny or the satchel to prevent them from becoming a choking hazard. Safety is always the highest priority.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Are the safety eyes locked securely in place and level with each other?
• Is the neck stuffed firmly enough to keep the head upright and straight?
• Are all loose yarn ends woven in and hidden deep within the bunny stuffing?
• Does the bunny stand or sit evenly without tipping over to one side?
• Is the companion sheep’s dress securely attached to its woolly body?
• Are the embroidered flowers on the cardigan front symmetrical and centered?

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Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Handmade knitted toys should never be placed in a washing machine. The high agitation will cause the natural wool to felt and the intricate embroidery to unravel or distort. If the bunny becomes dusty, a gentle once-over with a soft-bristled brush or a lint roller is usually sufficient for cleaning.

If a deeper clean is required for a specific stain, use a damp cloth with a very small amount of mild wool detergent. Dab the area gently; do not rub, as rubbing will pill the yarn and blur the stitch definition. Allow the bunny to air dry completely away from sunlight.

To preserve the vibrant orange and green colors of the nasturtiums, avoid displaying the bunny in a window with high UV exposure, as sunlight can fade the dyes over time. For long-term storage, place the bunny in a breathable cotton bag with a cedar block to keep moths away.

Congratulations on completing your Nasturtium Prairie-Tier Bunny. This project is a celebration of the quiet joy found in nature and the timeless art of hand-knitting. Whether she sits on your mantle or becomes a treasured gift, she is sure to bring a sense of garden peace to her home.