The Stockflower Ribbon Cardigan Bunny is a vision of pastoral elegance and intricate craftsmanship, designed to evoke the romantic charm of a blooming English garden. This heirloom-quality project features a soft, biscuit-colored rabbit with a serene, gentle expression, symbolizing the quiet beauty of nature and the refined grace of vintage textiles. She is the perfect project for fiber artists who wish to create a sophisticated centerpiece that celebrates complex garment construction, delicate textures, and the timeless appeal of botanical accessories.
She is dressed in a breathtaking, multi-layered ensemble that reflects a high-end, hand-knit aesthetic. Her outfit centers around a cream dress with a textured bodice, but the true showstopper is her “Stockflower” cardigan. This garment is crocheted in a rich lilac or dusty rose, featuring a unique ribbon-tie closure and embroidered vertical floral clusters that mimic the tall, elegant growth of stock flowers. Her look is completed with a structured sun hat, dainty shoes with ankle straps, and a collection of garden-ready accessories including a trug basket and a tiny bird companion. To achieve the delicate drape of the cardigan and the structural integrity of the hat, it is highly recommended to buy premium mercerized cotton yarn. This fiber choice ensures the stitch definition remains crisp and the accessories hold their shape perfectly over time. For the most comfortable crafting experience while assembling the tiny floral embroidery and the miniature bird, you should purchase professional-grade ergonomic crochet hooks.
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 Material Selection
Before we begin the actual stitching, it is vital to understand the scope of this project. The Stockflower Ribbon Cardigan Bunny is designed to be a timeless piece of art. We are aiming for a tight, consistent gauge that prevents the stuffing from showing through, which is the hallmark of professional amigurumi.
The total time to complete this project can range from 40 to 60 hours, depending on your speed and attention to the miniature details like the cardigan ribbon threading and the tiny bird companion. It is a labor of love intended to result in a collectible item or a cherished gift for a loved one. Many dedicated fiber artists also choose to order high-quality amigurumi supplies, such as glass-effect safety eyes and high-density polyester fiberfill, from trusted online retailers to ensure their creation feels as substantial and luxurious as it looks. Accompanied by her tiny feathered friend and garden treasures, this set is a perfect addition for those who shop for artisan handmade collectibles.
Choosing Your Yarn
Selecting the right materials is the first step to success. While acrylic yarn is affordable, it often lacks the stitch definition needed for the intricate texture of the cardigan and the delicate petals of the flowers. Cotton is superior here. When you order your supplies, look for matte finishes for the bunny skin and slight sheens for the floral elements to capture the light.
Yarn Requirements
- Bunny Body Yarn: Approximately 180g of Sport Weight or Light DK cotton yarn in “Biscuit,” “Oatmeal,” or “Sand.” A matte finish provides a natural, soft fur texture.
- Cardigan Yarn: 70g of “Lilac,” “Dusty Rose,” or “Lavender” cotton yarn. This serves as the main color for the statement piece.
- Dress & Hat Yarn: 70g of “Cream” or “Ivory” cotton yarn.
- Stockflower Accents: Scraps of “Purple,” “Pink,” “White,” and “Sage Green” for the embroidery and appliques.
- Bird Companion: “Brown,” “White,” and “Black” scraps.
- Accessories: “Beige” (basket), “Pink” (satin ribbon, 5mm width).
Essential Tools
- Crochet Hooks:
- 2.25mm (Size B/1): Essential for the amigurumi body, the tiny bird, and the flower buds to ensure a tight gauge.
- 2.75mm (Size C/2): Used for the dress skirt, cardigan, and hat to allow for a graceful drape and easier fit over the body.
- Safety Eyes:
- One pair of 12mm solid black eyes for the rabbit.
- One pair of 4mm black eyes or beads for the bird.
- Stuffing: Premium grade, high-loft polyester fiberfill.
- Embroidery Floss: Dark brown for the nose; Pink for cheeks; Green for stems.
- Notions: Long tapestry needle, stitch markers, 1/4 inch satin ribbon.
Standard Stitch Abbreviations and Guide
This project utilizes standard United States terminology. The complexity lies in the construction of the “Ribbon Slots” in the cardigan and the surface embroidery. Maintain a firm tension for the amigurumi parts.
- MR: Magic Ring (the foundation for circular work).
- sc: Single crochet.
- inc: Increase (work two single crochets into the same stitch).
- dec: Invisible decrease (work through the front loops only to reduce bulk).
- hdc: Half double crochet.
- dc: Double crochet.
- tr: Treble crochet.
- sl st: Slip stitch.
- ch: Chain stitch.
- BLO: Back loops only.
- FLO: Front loops only.
- st(s): Stitch or stitches.
- Cluster: 3 dc worked into the same stitch, keeping the last loop of each on the hook, then pulling through all loops together (used for flowers).
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Part 1: The Sculpted Bunny Head
The head is the most character-defining part of the doll. We are aiming for a rounded shape that tapers slightly at the snout area. Use the 2.25mm hook and Biscuit yarn.
Round 1: Start with a Magic Ring. Crochet 6 sc into the ring. Pull the tail tight to close the hole securely. (6)
Round 2: Work 1 inc (2 sc) in every stitch around. (12)
Round 3: Perform a sequence of [1 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (18)
Round 4: Perform a sequence of [2 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (24)
Round 5: Perform a sequence of [3 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (30)
Round 6: Perform a sequence of [4 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (36)
Round 7: Perform a sequence of [5 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (42)
Round 8: Perform a sequence of [6 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (48)
Round 9: Perform a sequence of [7 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (54)
Round 10: Perform a sequence of [8 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (60)
Round 11: Perform a sequence of [9 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (66)
Rounds 12-24: Work 1 sc in each of the 66 stitches around. This substantial section (13 rounds) builds the vertical height of the face. Ensure your tension remains consistent so the fabric is smooth. (66)
Eye Placement and Face Sculpting
Pause your crocheting here. Insert the 12mm safety eyes between Round 18 and Round 19. Position them approximately 14 stitches apart. Ensure they are level before snapping the back washers on. The wide spacing gives the bunny a gentle, innocent look.
Round 25: Perform a sequence of [9 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (60)
Round 26: Perform a sequence of [8 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (54)
Round 27: Perform a sequence of [7 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (48)
Round 28: Perform a sequence of [6 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (42)
Round 29: Perform a sequence of [5 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (36)
Stuffing Step: Begin stuffing the head firmly. Focus on pushing the fiberfill outwards toward the cheeks to create a rounded shape. The head should be firm to the touch, not squishy.
Round 30: Perform a sequence of [4 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (30)
Round 31: Perform a sequence of [3 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (24)
Round 32: Perform a sequence of [2 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (18)
Round 33: Perform a sequence of [1 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (12)
Round 34: Work 6 dec. Fasten off and leave a long tail. Weave the tail through the front loops of the remaining 6 stitches and pull tight to close. (6)
Embroidering the Features
Using the dark brown embroidery floss, stitch a small “Y” shape between the eyes to form the nose and mouth. The top of the “Y” should span about 3 stitches. Apply a small amount of pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks using a soft brush.
Part 2: The Long Lop Ears
These ears are designed to be long and hang low, framing the face beautifully. They are not stuffed, which gives them a fabric-like drape. Make two using the Biscuit yarn.
Round 1: Magic Ring, 6 sc. (6)
Round 2: 6 inc. (12)
Round 3: [1 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (18)
Round 4: [2 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (24)
Round 5: [3 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (30)
Rounds 6-15: sc in each st around. (30)
Round 16: [8 sc, 1 dec] repeat 3 times. (27)
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Rounds 17-25: sc in each st around. (27)
Round 26: [7 sc, 1 dec] repeat 3 times. (24)
Rounds 27-35: sc in each st around. (24)
Round 36: [6 sc, 1 dec] repeat 3 times. (21)
Rounds 37-45: sc in each st around. (21)
Round 46: [5 sc, 1 dec] repeat 3 times. (18)
Rounds 47-55: sc in each st around. (18)
Flatten the open end of the ear and sc across through both layers to close. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing. Position the ears on the top of the head, slightly to the sides, at approximately Round 5 or 6.
Part 3: Legs and Body Construction
We construct the legs first and join them to create the body. This seamless method ensures the doll is sturdy and can stand with support. Use the 2.25mm hook.
Legs (Make 2)
Round 1: Start with Lilac yarn (shoes). Chain 7. 2 sc in 2nd ch, sc 4, 4 sc in last ch. Rotate. sc 4, 2 sc in last st. (16)
Round 2: Inc, sc 5, 4 inc, sc 5, inc. (22)
Round 3: Work in BLO. sc around. (22)
Rounds 4-5: sc around. (22)
Round 6: [5 sc, 1 dec] repeat 3 times, sc 1. (19)
Round 7: Switch to Biscuit yarn (skin). Work in BLO. sc around. (19)
Rounds 8-25: sc in each st around in Biscuit. Stuff the leg firmly as you go.
Fasten off the first leg. Do not fasten off the second leg. Chain 4 from the second leg and join to the first leg with a sc.
Body
Round 26: sc 19 around the first leg, sc 4 along the chain, sc 19 around the second leg, sc 4 along the other side of the chain. (46)
Round 27: [10 sc, 1 inc] repeat 4 times approx to reach 50 sts.
Rounds 28-38: sc in each st around. (50)
Round 39: [8 sc, 1 dec] repeat 5 times. (45)
Rounds 40-41: sc around. (45)
Round 42: [7 sc, 1 dec] repeat 5 times. (40)
Round 43: [6 sc, 1 dec] repeat 5 times. (35)
Round 44: [5 sc, 1 dec] repeat 5 times. (30)
Round 45: [3 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (24)
Round 46: [2 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (18)
Round 47: sc around. (18)
Fasten off. Stuff the neck area very firmly to support the head. Sew the head to the body.
Arms (Make 2)
Round 1: With Biscuit yarn, MR, 6 sc. (6)
Round 2: [1 sc, 1 inc] repeat 3 times. (9)
Round 3: [2 sc, 1 inc] repeat 3 times. (12)
Rounds 4-22: sc in each st around. (12)
Lightly stuff the hand area but leave the upper arm empty for mobility. Flatten the top and sc closed. Sew to the shoulders.
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Part 4: The Cream Dress
This dress is the foundation for the cardigan. It features a fitted bodice and a full skirt. Use Cream yarn and the 2.75mm hook.
Bodice
Row 1: Ch 35. sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. (34)
Rows 2-5: sc across. (34)
Row 6 (Armholes): sc 5, ch 8, skip 6, sc 12, ch 8, skip 6, sc 5.
Row 7: sc across all sts and chains. (38)
Rows 8-10: sc across.
Round 11 (Waist): Join to work in rounds. sc around.
Skirt
Round 12: *2 dc, 1 inc* around. (Increase for volume).
Rounds 13-22: Work dc in each st around.
Round 23 (Hem): *sc, skip 1, 5 dc in next, skip 1* around to create a scalloped edge. Fasten off.
Part 5: The Stockflower Ribbon Cardigan
This cardigan is unique because it uses a ribbon for closure rather than buttons. Use Lilac yarn and the 2.75mm hook.
Row 1: Ch 37. sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. Ch 1, turn. (36)
Row 2: [5 sc, 1 inc] across. Ch 1, turn. (42)
Row 3 (Armholes): sc 6, ch 8, skip 8, sc 14, ch 8, skip 8, sc 6. Ch 1, turn.
Row 4: sc across all sts and chains. Ch 1, turn. (42)
Rows 5-10: Work in hdc across to create a smooth fabric.
Row 11 (Ribbon Slots): Work *dc 2, ch 1, skip 1* around the waist/opening area. This creates holes to thread the ribbon through later.
Sleeves: Join yarn to armhole. Work 16 sc around for 10 rounds. Fasten off.
Stockflower Embroidery
Stockflowers grow in tall spikes. Using Purple and Pink yarn:
Stems: Embroider vertical green lines up the front panels of the cardigan.
Flowers: Create clusters of small French knots or lazy daisy stitches in purple and pink along the top half of the stems. Make them dense to resemble the Stockflower.
The Ribbon Closure
Cut a length of 1/4 inch satin pink ribbon. Thread it through the eyelets/slots created in Row 11 of the cardigan. Tie a neat bow at the front.
Part 6: The Garden Hat
A structured sun hat. Use Cream yarn.
Round 1: MR, 6 sc.
Round 2: 6 inc. (12)
Round 3: [1 sc, 1 inc] around. (18)
Round 4: [2 sc, 1 inc] around. (24)
Round 5: [3 sc, 1 inc] around. (30)
Round 6: [4 sc, 1 inc] around. (36)
Round 7: [5 sc, 1 inc] around. (42)
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Round 8: [6 sc, 1 inc] around. (48)
Rounds 9-11: sc in each st around.
Round 12 (Brim): Work in FLO. [3 sc, 1 inc] around. (60)
Round 13: [4 sc, 1 inc] around. (72)
Round 14: sc around. Fasten off.
Decoration: Crochet a chain of green yarn to act as a vine. Sew it around the hat band. Attach small purple and pink crochet flowers (ch 2, 5 dc in MR) along the vine.
Part 7: Accessories
The Trug Basket
Base: Beige yarn. Ch 10. Sc around chain to form oval. Work 4 rounds flat.
Sides: BLO sc around. Work 5 rounds up.
Handle: Ch 30. Cover with sc. Attach to sides.
Contents: Fill with small crochet flowers.
The Bird Companion
Body: Brown yarn. MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Work 3 rounds. Dec to 6. Close.
Head: Brown yarn. MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Work 2 rounds. Dec to 6. Sew to body.
Wings: White yarn. Ch 4, sc back. Sew to sides.
Beak: Black yarn. Tiny stitch on face.
Part 8: Shoe Finishing
Finish the shoes started on the legs.
Strap: Attach Lilac yarn to the side of the shoe. Ch 8 across the foot. Sew to the other side.
Flower: Sew a tiny crochet flower to the side of the strap.
Final Assembly and Facial Detailing
Now that all components are ready, it is time to bring the Stockflower Ribbon Cardigan Bunny to life.
- Head Attachment: Sew the head to the body securely.
- Dressing: Put the cream dress on feet first. Fasten the back. Put on the shoes. Put on the cardigan and tie the ribbon bow. Place the hat on the head.
- Props: Place the basket on her arm. Position the bird at her feet.
- Blush: Use a soft brush to apply pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks.
Care Notes
To ensure your bunny lasts a lifetime, handle with care. Do not machine wash. If the bunny gets dusty, use a lint roller. For stains, spot clean gently with a damp cloth and mild soap. Store out of direct sunlight to prevent the lilac colors from fading.
Quick Checklist Before You Finish
- Are all yarn ends woven in securely?
- Is the head firmly attached and not wobbling?
- Are the safety eyes secure?
- Did you thread the ribbon through the cardigan correctly?
Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines
Because this doll uses premium cotton and has intricate details like the ribbon and embroidery, it is considered an art doll. If deep cleaning is absolutely necessary, submerge gently in cool water with wool wash. Do not wring. Squeeze out water with a towel and reshape to dry. Store in a cotton dust bag when not on display to protect it from dust and light.
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Congratulations! Your Stockflower Ribbon Cardigan Bunny is now complete. This character serves as a lovely tribute to the beauty of the garden and the elegance of handcrafted details. We hope this project brought you joy and relaxation.
