Protea Atelier – Chic Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the sophisticated world of Protea Atelier, where we blend high-fashion aesthetics with the timeless warmth of hand-knitted creations. This project captures the essence of a designer’s studio, featuring our centerpiece rabbit character who is as stylish as she is soft. She is a vision of artisan grace.

To achieve the professional finish seen in these photos, we highly recommend that you buy premium knitting wool in a soft oatmeal shade for the skin. For the intricate wardrobe, consider purchasing high-quality cotton yarn or a wool blend to ensure the stitch definition remains crisp. Check your knitting supplies for bamboo needles before starting.

 

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 Visual Design Notes

The Chic Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The design focuses on a “Studio Maker” aesthetic, combining natural base tones with a deep dusty rose wardrobe. This bunny is not just a toy; she is a representation of the patience found in hand-knitting and botanical floral design.

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 structure, ensuring the doll maintains its elegant posture whether sitting or standing on a gallery shelf.

The wardrobe is the heart of this design. The skirt features a taupe-beige base that serves as a canvas for large Protea flower colorwork. The cardigan is a study in classic tailoring, featuring a flared hem and structured sleeves. These details require a steady hand and a love for small-scale stranded colorwork embellishment.

Every component, from the textured beret to the tiny fox companion in his tweed-style vest, is designed to create a rich, narrative-driven scene. The inclusion of miniature tools like a tape measure and metal scissors emphasizes her role as a creator. Consistency in your stitch tension is the most important factor.

Yarn and Essential Materials Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Body): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Sand, or Light Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Cardigan and Hat): 80g DK weight yarn in Dusty Rose, Mauve, or Terracotta.
• Yarn C (Dress Main): 60g DK weight yarn in Cream, Beige, or Off-White.
• Yarn D (Flower Colorwork): 20g DK weight yarn in Deep Rose and Olive Green.
• Yarn E (Shoes and Bag): 40g DK weight yarn in Tan, Camel, or Cinnamon.
• Yarn F (Fox Companion): 30g DK weight yarn in Burnt Orange, White, and Black.
• Needles: US size 3 (3.25mm) straight needles for the main bunny and clothing.
• Detail Needles: US size 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature fox 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 beads for the fox.
• 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 cardigan, fits perfectly.

Consistency is your best friend during this project. When making the matching legs or the 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.

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).

The Foundation – Knitting the Bunny Body

The construction of the bunny begins with the legs. These are worked individually and then joined together to form the lower torso. This bottom-up approach creates a seamless and sturdy core, providing the necessary support for the bunny’s weight and ensuring a smooth transition from the hips to the neck.

Crafting the Legs (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal) and US 3 needles, cast on 12 stitches. Leave a long tail of yarn at the start for sewing the foot pad during assembly. The mattress stitch will be our primary method for seaming to ensure the joins are nearly invisible and the final product looks professional.

• Row 1 (WS): Purl all stitches across the row to set the foundation.
• Row 2 (RS): Increase in every stitch across. (24 sts). This forms the base of the foot.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches evenly, focusing on a tight, firm tension.
• Row 4: *K1, Inc*, repeat from * to end of row. (36 sts). This rounds the paw.
• Rows 5-9: Work 5 rows in stockinette stitch, beginning with a Purl row on the WS.
• Row 10 (Shape Instep): K12, (K2tog) 6 times, K12. (30 sts). This forms the front curve.
• Row 11: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 12: K9, (K2tog) 6 times, K9. (24 sts). The ankle is now forming.
• Row 13: Purl all stitches. Keep tension high at the decreases to avoid gaps.
• Row 14: K8, (K2tog) 4 times, K8. (20 sts). This defines the leg shape clearly.
• Rows 15-42: Work straight in stockinette stitch. Measure to ensure both legs match exactly.

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After completing Row 42 on the first leg, break the yarn 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 the pieces together at the crotch.

Joining and Knitting the Torso

With the RS of the second leg facing you, cast on 2 stitches for the crotch space. Then, knit across the 20 stitches of the first leg from the stitch holder. You should now have 42 stitches on your needle. Take care during the join to pull the yarn tight.

• Row 44 (WS): Purl all stitches, including the two new cast-on stitches at the center.
• Row 45: K10, Inc, K20, Inc, K10. (44 sts). This adds volume to the bunny’s hips.
• Row 46: Purl all stitches evenly across the entire row.
• Row 47: K11, Inc, K20, Inc, K11. (46 sts). This completes the basic hip shaping.
• Rows 48-68: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This long section forms the bunny’s tummy.
• Row 69: *K8, K2tog*, repeat to last 6 sts, K6. (42 sts). Starting the chest taper.
• Row 70: Purl all stitches. Focus on maintaining a consistent stitch count.
• Row 71: *K5, 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: *K4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts). Almost at the neck line.
• Row 78: Purl all stitches.
• Row 79: *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts). Final torso shaping row.
• Row 80: Purl across. This row represents the neck where the head begins.

Shaping the Head and Expressive 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 and doesn’t wobble. The head is shaped with rapid increases to create the chubby, endearing cheeks that define our bunny’s character.

• Row 81 (RS): *K1, Inc*, repeat to the end of the row. (36 sts).
• Row 82: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 83: *K2, Inc*, repeat to the end of the row. (48 sts).
• Row 84: Purl all stitches. The fabric is expanding for the face.
• Row 85: *K7, Inc*, repeat to end. (54 sts). The cheeks are now fully established.
• Rows 86-106: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This provides height for safety eye placement.
• Row 107: *K7, K2tog*, repeat to end. (48 sts). Starting the top of the head.
• Row 108: Purl all stitches.
• Row 109: *K6, K2tog*, repeat to end. (42 sts).
• Row 110: Purl all stitches.
• Row 111: *K5, K2tog*, repeat to end. (36 sts).
• Row 112: Purl all stitches.
• Row 113: *K4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts).
• Row 114: Purl all stitches.
• Row 115: *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts).
• Row 116: Purl all stitches.
• Row 117: *K1, 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.

Crafting 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 bunny’s tools or her fox friend. 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: *K2, K2tog*, repeat across the row. (15 sts). Shaping the upper shoulder area.
• 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 maker’s posture for the character’s presentation.

The Long 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. These are long, so keep your edges neat for seaming.
• 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.

The Chic Wardrobe – Protea Gown

The gown is the centerpiece of the character’s outfit. It is knitted in Yarn C (Cream) and features a stunning row of large Protea flowers at the hem. The design provides a vintage aesthetic, while the bodice remains smooth to allow for the bunny’s cardigan.

The Skirt and Protea Colorwork

Using Yarn C, cast on 80 stitches. We begin at the hem to create the volume needed for the bell-shaped skirt. We will use stranded colorwork for the flower band, alternating between Yarn D (Deep Rose) for the petals and Yarn D (Olive Green) for the leaves.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) to create a flat, sturdy hem that won’t roll.
• Rows 5-8: Work in stockinette stitch using Yarn C.
• Row 9 (Begin Stems): Join Yarn D (Green). *K3 C, K1 D, K4 C*, repeat across the row.
• Row 10: Purl row, following the colors established. Keep floats loose on the WS.
• Row 11 (Flower Base): Join Yarn D (Deep Rose). *K2 C, K3 D, K3 C*, repeat across.
• Row 12: Purl row, making the flower clusters slightly wider to form the heart-like Protea shape.
• Rows 13-14: Complete the flower spikes. Break contrast yarns.
• Rows 15-34: Work in stockinette stitch with Yarn C until the skirt reaches the waist.
• Waist Row: *K2tog* across the entire row. (40 sts). This creates the gathers at the high waist.

The Smooth Dress Bodice

Continuing from the waist, we transition to the upper part of the dress. This section is fitted to contrast with the volume of the skirt. The bodice remains simple to highlight the central embroidered floral medallion that will be added during the finishing stage.

• Rows 35-38: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 39: K8, cast off 4 sts (armhole), K16, cast off 4 sts, K8.
• Row 40: P8, cast on 4 sts, P16, cast on 4 sts, P8. (40 sts).
• Rows 41-44: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 45: Knit across the row for a neat neckline edge.
• Row 46: Cast off all stitches loosely. Sew the back seam up to the waist only.

Central Medallion: After seaming, knit a small circle in Yarn B. Embroider a tiny Protea flower in the center. Sew this to the chest of the gown as shown in the reference image. This serves as the “Artisan Badge” for the bunny character.

The Chic Wardrobe – Tailored Cardigan

The cardigan is knitted in Yarn B (Dusty Rose). It is an open-front garment that provides a wonderful tactile contrast to the dress. The ribbing provides a durable and stylish look. We will also add colorwork bands to the cuffs and a decorative border to the hem.

Back and Front Panels

We work the cardigan in one piece up to the armholes to minimize seams. Cast on 44 stitches with Yarn B. We use a garter stitch hem to prevent curling. The panels are then split to create the armhole openings and the neckline slope for the open-front style.

• Rows 1-4: Knit all rows (Garter Stitch).
• Rows 5-16: Work in stockinette stitch. At Row 10, work a small band of Yarn D for detail.
• Row 17: K10 (Front), cast off 2, K20 (Back), cast off 2, K10 (Front).
• Work Sections separately: Complete the back and front panels to the shoulder, maintaining the stockinette pattern throughout. For the fronts, decrease 1 st at neck edge every RS row.
• Finishing: Sew the shoulder seams together. The cardigan is designed to be worn open, showcasing the medallion on the gown underneath.

Cardigan Sleeves and Patterned Cuffs

The sleeves are long and feature a patterned cuff. Cast on 16 stitches with Yarn B. We will work the cuff first using stranded colorwork to create the row of geometric shapes, matching the dress’s aesthetic. This detail is crucial for the tailored look.

• Cuff: Work 4 rows of geometric colorwork using Yarn B and Yarn D.
• Sleeve Body: Switch to stockinette stitch and work for 12 rows.
• Finishing: Cast off and sew the underarm seams. Sew the sleeves into the armholes. This creates the sophisticated, slightly boxy sleeve shape seen in the studio setting.

Accessories – Beret, Shoes, and Tote Bag

The accessories tie the entire look together. The hat is a classic beret-style with a floral applique, and the shoes feature a unique strap design. We also include a sturdy tote bag for the bunny to carry her knitting tools and notebook.

The Dusty Rose Beret

Using Yarn B, cast on 50 stitches. This hat is designed to sit comfortably behind the bunny’s ears. We will use a garter stitch brim for stability and stockinette for the crown to allow the flower applique to stand out as a focal point.

• Rows 1-6: Knit all rows to form the brim.
• Rows 7-18: Work in stockinette stitch to form the side of the hat.
• Row 19: *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end of row. (40 sts).
• Row 20: Purl all stitches across.
• Row 21: *K2, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts).
• Row 23: *K1, K2tog*, repeat to end. (20 sts).
• Row 24: K2tog across. Draw through.

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Beret Flower: Using Yarn B and D, knit a tiny 5-petal flower. Sew it to the side of the beret. This adds a feminine, artisan touch that mirrors the Protea theme of the entire set and the bunny’s profession.

Tailored Mary Jane Shoes

The shoes are knitted in Yarn E (Tan). They feature a sturdy sole and a wide strap that crosses over the foot. We will add a small decorative button on the strap of each shoe to tie the tailored scheme together beautifully.

• Sole: Using Yarn E, cast on 10 sts. Knit 12 rows.
• Upper: Pick up 32 sts around the edge of the sole.
• 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 brown button.

The Woven Tote Bag and Tools

Our bunny is a creator. We will create a tan tote bag using Yarn E and include her notebook and a tiny pair of metal scissors. These props give the character a sense of history and provide a wonderful tactile experience.

• Bag Body: Cast on 16 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 5 inches. Fold in half and sew side seams.
• Handles: Knit two short I-cord straps and sew them to the top edges of the bag.
• Notebook: Knit a small cream rectangle. Fold in half and sew small pieces of paper inside. Write “Protea” on the cover.
• Tools: Include a small real tape measure or knit a long thin strip of cream yarn and mark it with lines. This adds immense realism to the scene.

The Fox Companion: A Tiny Studio Assistant

Every chic bunny needs a loyal companion. Our tiny fox is knitted in Yarn F (Orange) with white and black accents. He wears his own simplified version of the bunny’s vest. This detail elevates the entire set into a storytelling scene for your display.

• Body: Cast on 10 stitches in Orange. Work 10 rows. Decrease to 10. Draw through.
• Head: Using Orange, pick up 8 stitches at the front. Increase to 12. Knit 4 rows. For the muzzle, change to white for the last 2 rows and close. Sew on beads for eyes.
• Limbs: Knit 4 short black I-cords for the “socks” on the fox’s legs.
• Fox’s Vest: Using Yarn E (Tan), knit a tiny rectangle, wrap around the fox’s middle, and secure. Add a small grey hat using Yarn G.

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.

1. Body Seaming: Use a ladder 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.
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 stylish beret.
5. Dressing: Put on the Protea gown first. Secure the cardigan over the top. Place the beret on the head. Secure the Mary Janes. Arrange the fox, tote bag, and studio tools in the scene.

Care Notes for Your Heirloom Bunny

Your Protea Atelier Chic Bunny is a delicate piece of artisan craft. Because of the intricate floral colorwork 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.

Over time, high-quality wool can develop a slight fuzz or “pilling.” This is a natural characteristic of the 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 to preserve the stuffing.

If the bunny is meant for a young child, please ensure all safety eyes are locked securely and that the tiny accessories (like the scissors or notebook) are double-stitched to the bunny or the tote bag to prevent them from becoming a choking hazard. Safety is always the 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 fox’s vest securely attached to its orange body?
• Are the Protea flowers on the gown hem symmetrical and centered?

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 colorwork 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 pilling the yarn and blur the stitch definition. Allow the bunny to air dry completely away from direct sunlight or high-heat sources like radiators.

To preserve the vibrant dusty rose and green colors of the Protea flowers, 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 from the wool.

Congratulations on completing your Protea Atelier Chic 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 stylish peace to her new home.