Gentian Basque Moonbelle Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the serene and sophisticated world of the Gentian Basque Moonbelle Bunny. This project captures the essence of a tranquil afternoon in a European garden, where the deep blue hues of Gentian flowers contrast beautifully against the soft light of the moon. Our elegant rabbit character is a vision of poise, dressed in a wardrobe that reflects the charm of the Basque countryside.

To bring this heirloom-quality creation to life, we recommend that you buy premium merino wool yarn from a trusted source to ensure the bunny has the soft, durable texture seen in our designs. Choosing the right knitting supplies online will help you achieve the intricate floral colorwork and the structured capelet details. This character is an ideal choice for those looking to purchase handmade doll materials that offer timeless charm for their 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 Concept and Design Philosophy

The Gentian Basque Moonbelle Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The design philosophy centers on a “Moonlit Garden” aesthetic, combining the neutral, warm tones of oatmeal for the bunny itself with the cool, calming shades of cornflower blue, deep violet, and cream for the attire. This contrast creates a piece that is both grounded and ethereal.

The construction utilizes 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 for tea or standing on a collector’s shelf.

The wardrobe is the centerpiece of this design. The “Moonbelle Dress” features a soft blue base that serves as a canvas for a stunning border of deep blue Gentian flowers. The accompanying cream capelet adds a layer of warmth and sophistication, utilizing a geometric colorwork band to frame the face. Every component, from the pillbox hat to the tiny penguin companion, is designed to create a rich, narrative-driven scene.

Consistency in your stitch tension is the ultimate key to achieving the professional finish seen in the reference images. When working on the body, a firm tension prevents the white fiberfill from peeking through the stitches. For the clothing, a slightly more relaxed tension allows the garments to drape naturally over the bunny’s form, adding to the realism of the piece.

Yarn and Essential Materials Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Body): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Warm Sand, or Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Dress & Hat): 80g DK weight yarn in Cornflower Blue or Periwinkle.
• Yarn C (Capelet Base): 60g DK weight yarn in Cream or Ivory.
• Yarn D (Embroidery & Colorwork): 30g DK weight yarn in Deep Violet, Royal Blue, and Leaf Green.
• Yarn E (Shoes): 20g DK weight yarn in Cream and Blue for detailing.
• Yarn F (Penguin Companion): 30g DK weight yarn in Grey, White, and Navy Blue.
• Yarn G (Penguin Hat): Scraps of striped yarn or two contrasting colors.
• Needles: US size 3 (3.25mm) straight knitting needles for the main components.
• Detail Needles: US size 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature penguin and tiny accessories.
• Stuffing: High-loft polyester fiberfill for a firm and balanced feel.
• Eyes: Two 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny; two small beads for the penguin.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, and a small metal clasp for the purse.

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 to a 3.0mm or 2.75mm. 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 capelet, 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 without leaning.

Common Abbreviations

• 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).

Part 1: The Oatmeal 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.

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• Row 1 (WS): Purl across all stitches to set the foundation.
• Row 2 (RS): Increase in every stitch across the row. (24 sts). This forms the flat base of the foot.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches evenly, maintaining your firm hand tension.
• Row 4: *K1, Inc*, repeat from * to end of row. (36 sts). This creates the rounded, chubby paw shape.
• Rows 5-9: Work 5 rows in stockinette stitch, starting with a Purl row on the WS.
• Row 10 (Shape Instep): K12, (K2tog) 6 times, K12. (30 sts). This forms the front curve of the foot.
• Row 11: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 12: K9, (K2tog) 6 times, K9. (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: K8, (K2tog) 4 times, K8. (20 sts). This defines the leg shape clearly.
• Rows 15-42: Work straight in stockinette stitch. Measure frequently to ensure both legs are the exact same length.

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 together at the crotch.

Joining the Torso

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.

• 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 hip shaping.
• Rows 48-68: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This long section forms the bunny’s tummy area.
• Row 69: *K8, K2tog*, repeat to last 6 sts, K6. (42 sts). Starting the chest taper.
• Row 70: Purl all stitches. Maintain your focus on the 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.
• Row 78: Purl all stitches.
• Row 79: *K3, 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 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. The head is shaped with rapid increases to create the chubby, endearing cheeks that define our bunny’s personality.

• 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 the 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.

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 fan or the bouquet. Ensure your tension matches the legs perfectly to maintain a professional look throughout the assembly process.

• 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.
• Row 28: Purl across all stitches.
• Row 29: K2tog across the row to the last stitch, Knit 1. (8 sts).

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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 posture.

The Long Floppy Ears (Make 2)

The ears are a large and iconic part of this design. They are worked flat and then folded slightly 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.

• Rows 1-42: Work in stockinette stitch. These are long, so keep your edges neat.
• Row 43: SSK, K10, K2tog. (12 sts). Starting the rounded tip.
• Row 44: Purl all stitches.
• Row 45: SSK, K8, K2tog. (10 sts).
• Row 46: Purl all stitches.
• Row 47: SSK, K6, K2tog. (8 sts).
• Row 48: Purl all stitches.
• Row 49: SSK, K4, K2tog. (6 sts).
• Row 50: Purl all stitches.
• Row 51: SSK, K2, K2tog. (4 sts).
• Row 52: K2tog twice. (2 sts).

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 later.

The Moonbelle Wardrobe: Part 1 – The Gentian Dress

The dress is the highlight of the bunny’s outfit. It features a flared skirt in Yarn B (Cornflower Blue) with a stunning border of Gentian flowers. The bodice is fitted and features a central embroidered floral motif. This garment evokes a classic European folk style.

The Skirt and Floral Border

Using Yarn B, cast on 80 stitches. We start at the hem to incorporate the colorwork band immediately. This provides a weighted edge that keeps the dress flared correctly when the bunny is in a seated position. We will use the stranded colorwork technique.

• 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 B.
• Row 9 (Begin Stems): Join Yarn D (Leaf Green). *K3 B, K1 D, K4 B*, repeat across.
• Row 10: Purl row, following the colors established. Keep floats loose on the WS.
• Row 11 (Bloom Base): Join Yarn D (Deep Violet). *K2 B, K3 D, K3 B*, repeat across.
• Row 12: Purl row, working the violet color into a trumpet shape.
• Rows 13-14: Complete the flower heads. Break contrast yarns.
• Rows 15-32: Work in stockinette stitch with Yarn B until the skirt reaches the waist.
• Waist Row: *K2tog* across the entire row. (40 sts). This creates the gathered waist.

The Bodice and Central Motif

Continuing from the waist, we transition to the upper part of the dress. This section is fitted to allow the capelet to sit comfortably over the top. We will leave the center plain for now, as the main chest motif will be embroidered later for precision.

• Rows 34-38: 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 41-46: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 47: Knit across the row for the neckline edge.
• Row 48: Cast off loosely. Sew the back seam up to the waist.

Embroidery: On the center chest of the dress, use Yarn D (Deep Violet and Royal Blue) to embroider a cluster of three Gentian flowers. They should be trumpet-shaped with pointed petals. Add green stems and leaves using a satin stitch to complete the look.

The Moonbelle Wardrobe: Part 2 – The Basque Capelet

The capelet is a sophisticated addition, knitted in Yarn C (Cream). It features a structured shape that covers the shoulders and upper arms. The highlight is the geometric colorwork band in blue, inspired by traditional Basque textiles.

The Capelet Construction

We work the capelet from the neck down to allow for increasing to create the flare. Cast on 24 stitches with Yarn C.

• Row 1: Knit across.
• Row 2: *K1, Inc*, repeat across. (36 sts).
• Rows 3-6: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 7: *K2, Inc*, repeat across. (48 sts).
• Rows 8-12: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 13: *K3, Inc*, repeat across. (60 sts).
• Row 14: Purl across.

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The Colorwork Border

Now we introduce the blue geometric pattern. This band adds visual weight and style to the garment.

• Row 15: Join Yarn D (Royal Blue). *K1 Blue, K1 Cream*, repeat across.
• Row 16: Purl row, maintaining the checker pattern.
• Row 17: *K1 Cream, K1 Blue*, repeat across to shift the check.
• Row 18: Purl row.
• Row 19: With Cream only, Knit across.
• Row 20: Purl across.
• Row 21: Cast off loosely. Sew a small hook and eye or button at the neck to secure.

The Moonbelle Wardrobe: Part 3 – Accessories

The accessories tie the entire look together. The pillbox hat is a classic touch, while the shoes and purse add to the elegance. The fan is a unique accessory that suggests a warm summer evening.

The Pillbox Hat

Using Yarn B (Cornflower Blue), cast on 50 stitches.

• Brim: Knit 6 rows in stockinette stitch. Allow this to roll naturally or hem it for a folded brim.
• Sides: Knit 10 rows straight in stockinette.
• Crown: *K3, K2tog*, repeat across. Purl back. *K2, K2tog*, repeat across. Continue decreasing until 8 stitches remain. Draw yarn through.
• Decoration: Knit three small violet flowers and sew them to the side of the hat along with green leaves.

Mary Jane Shoes

Using Yarn E (Cream and Blue), cast on 12 stitches.

• Sole: Knit 10 rows in Cream. Pick up 30 stitches around the edge.
• Upper: Work 4 rows in Blue.
• Toe: K8, (K2tog) 7 times, K8. (23 sts).
• Strap: Cast off all but the center 3 stitches. Knit a strip for the T-strap. Sew to sides.
• Detail: Add two small white beads or knots to the toe for decoration.

The Clasp Purse

Using Yarn C (Cream), cast on 14 stitches. Work 20 rows in stockinette stitch. Fold in half. Sew the sides. If you have a small metal purse frame, sew the top edge to it. If not, knit a small flap and add a bead closure. Embroider a tiny blue heart on the front.

The Pleated Fan

Using Yarn C (Cream) and Yarn B (Blue). Cast on 30 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit in Cream.
• Rows 5-6: Knit in Blue.
• Rows 7-10: Knit in Cream.
• Shape: Bind off loosely. Fold the rectangle into accordion pleats. Stitch the bottom gathered point together securely. It should fan out at the top.

The Penguin Companion

Our bunny’s friend is a tiny penguin. He wears a striped hat and blue pants.

• Body: Cast on 10 stitches with Yarn F (Grey). Increase to 20. Knit 10 rows. Decrease to 10. Draw through.
• Head: Pick up 10 stitches. Increase to 16. Change to Black for the head and White for the face mask. Knit 6 rows. Close.
• Beak: Embroider a small yellow triangle.
• Clothes: Knit tiny blue tubes for pants. Knit a striped blue and white beanie for the penguin’s head.

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.

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.
2. Face Placement:
   • Insert the 9mm safety eyes between rows 90 and 91, approximately 9 stitches apart.
   • Embroider the nose using dark brown floss. Create a small “Y” shape for the classic bunny mouth.
   • (Optional) Add a touch of pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks for a healthy glow.
3. 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 pillbox hat.
4. Dressing: Put on the Gentian dress first. Secure the capelet over the top. Place the hat on the head. Secure the Mary Janes. Arrange the penguin, fan, and purse in the scene.

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Care Notes

Your Gentian Basque Moonbelle 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.

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.

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

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Handmade knitted toys should never be placed in a washing machine. The agitation will cause the 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.

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. Allow the bunny to air dry completely away from direct sunlight.

To preserve the vibrant blue and violet colors of the Gentians, 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.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Are the safety eyes locked securely in place and level?
• Is the neck stuffed firmly enough to keep the head upright?
• Are all loose yarn ends woven in and hidden deep within the stuffing?
• Does the bunny sit evenly without tipping over to one side?
• Is the penguin companion’s hat securely attached to its head?
• Are the embroidered flowers on the dress hem symmetrical?

Congratulations on completing your Gentian Basque Moonbelle Bunny. This project is a celebration of the quiet beauty found in moonlight and gardens, and the timeless art of hand-knitting. Whether she sits on your mantle or becomes a treasured gift, she brings a sense of elegance and peace to her new home.