Azalea Porch-Swing Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the gracious and relaxing world of the Azalea Porch-Swing Bunny. This project captures the essence of a slow, sweet afternoon spent swaying on a porch swing, surrounded by the vibrant blooms of southern azaleas. Our rabbit character is a vision of hospitality and charm, dressed in a monochromatic palette of deep rose and soft pinks.

To bring this heirloom-quality creation to life, we recommend that you buy premium merino wool yarn from a trusted yarn shop 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 colorwork on the skirt and the textured details of the cable cardigan. 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 Azalea Porch-Swing Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The design philosophy centers on a “Southern Garden” aesthetic, combining the neutral, warm tones of oatmeal for the bunny itself with the rich, saturated hues of Azalea Pink and Rose for the attire. This monochromatic approach creates a piece that is both bold and elegant.

The construction utilizes a traditional flat-knitting method on two needles. This approach is perfect for creating the precise shaping required for the bunny’s rounded cheeks and slender limbs. Seaming these pieces together provides structural integrity, 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 “Porch-Swing” dress features a rose-pink base with a delicate band of white Fair Isle colorwork near the hem and an intricate lace border. The accompanying cardigan features cable details on the sleeves, adding a layer of texture. Every component, from the floral headband to the tiny white dove companion, is designed to create a rich, narrative-driven scene.

Consistency in your stitch tension is the ultimate key to achieving a professional finish. 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.

Yarn and Materials Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Body): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Warm Sand, or Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Dress & Headband): 80g DK weight yarn in Deep Rose or Azalea Pink.
• Yarn C (Cardigan): 60g DK weight yarn in Antique Pink or Mauve.
• Yarn D (Colorwork & Dove): 30g DK weight yarn in White or Cream.
• Yarn E (Embroidery & Details): Small amounts of Navy Blue (for contrast) and Dark Green.
• Yarn F (Shoes & Bag): 30g DK weight yarn in Rose (matching dress) or a slightly darker Berry shade.
• Needles: US size 3 (3.25mm) straight knitting needles for the main components.
• Detail Needles: US size 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature dove 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 dove.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, cable needle, and pink ribbon.

Gauge and Fabric Tension

For this character, 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 absolutely vital when knitting stuffed toys. If the fabric is too loose, the white fiberfill will peek 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 all clothing fits perfectly later on.

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.

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).
• RS: Right Side (the side that will face outward).
• WS: Wrong Side (the side that will be inside the toy).
• St st: Stockinette Stitch (Knit on RS rows, Purl on WS rows).
• C4F: Cable 4 Front (Slip 2 sts to cable needle and hold in front, K2, K2 from cable needle).

Bunny Body: Part 1 – The Foundation

We begin the construction by knitting the legs individually. These will later be joined at the crotch to form the lower torso. This bottom-up method provides the necessary stability for the bunny’s weight 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, as this 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 establish the foundation.
• Row 2 (RS): Increase in every stitch across the row. (24 sts). This creates the base of the foot.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches evenly, maintaining your firm tension.
• Row 4: *K1, Inc*, 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): K12, (K2tog) 6 times, K12. (30 sts). This forms the curve of the paw.
• 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. 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 onto a stitch 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.

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 the necessary volume to the hips.
• Row 46: Purl all stitches evenly across the 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 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.

Bunny Body: Part 2 – The Head and Face

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 Expressive 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 accessories or the dove friend. Ensure your tension matches the legs perfectly to maintain a professional look throughout the assembly process.

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• 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).

Fasten off and leave a long tail. Sew the side seam and stuff the lower half of the arm 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 Garden Wardrobe: Part 1 – The Azalea Dress

The dress is the highlight of the bunny’s outfit. It features a flared skirt in Yarn B (Rose) with a delicate Fair Isle band in white near the hem and an open lace border. The bodice features a central floral embroidery motif.

The Skirt and Colorwork

Using Yarn B, cast on 80 stitches. We start at the hem with a lace edge.

• Rows 1-4 (Lace Edge): Work a simple eyelet pattern: *K2tog, YO, K1, YO, K2tog*, repeat. Purl all wrong side rows.
• Rows 5-8: Work in stockinette stitch using Yarn B.
• Row 9 (Begin Colorwork): Join Yarn D (White). *K3 B, K1 D, K1 B, K1 D, K2 B*, repeat across.
• Row 10: Purl row, working the chart to create small diamonds or hearts.
• Rows 11-14: Complete the colorwork band. Break Yarn D.
• 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 Neckline

Continuing from the waist, we transition to the upper part of the dress. This section is fitted to allow the cardigan to sit comfortably over the top.

• 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 E (Navy) and Yarn B (Rose) to embroider a stylized Azalea branch. Use a stem stitch for the branch and lazy daisy loops for the leaves and blooms.

The Garden Wardrobe: Part 2 – The Cable Cardigan

The cardigan adds a layer of texture and warmth. Knitted in Yarn C (Antique Pink), it features cable details on the sleeves and fronts.

Cardigan Construction

We will work the cardigan in one piece up to the armholes to minimize seams. Cast on 44 stitches with Yarn C.

• Rows 1-4: Work in Garter Stitch for a flat hem.
• Rows 5-16: Work in stockinette stitch with a cable placement on the fronts.
  • Row 5 (RS): K4, P1, C4F, P1, K24, P1, C4F, P1, K4.
  • Row 6 (WS): Purl all stitches.
  • Repeat: Continue cabling every 4th or 6th row.
• Row 17 (Split for Fronts/Back): K10 (Front), cast off 2, K20 (Back), cast off 2, K10 (Front).
• Work sections separately: Complete the back and fronts, maintaining the cable pattern on the fronts.
• Sleeves: Cast on 16 sts. Work 12 rows St st. Cast off. Sew into armholes.
• Embroidery: Embroider small rose buds on the fronts of the cardigan using Yarn B and E.

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Accessories: Headband, Shoes, and Dove

The accessories define the character’s style. The headband is elegant, while the dove adds a touch of peace and nature.

The Rose Headband

Using Yarn B (Rose), cast on 8 stitches. Knit in Garter Stitch for 11 inches. Sew ends together.

The Rose: Cast on 40 stitches. Knit 4 rows in stockinette. Cast off. Roll the strip into a spiral to form a rosette. Secure with a few stitches and sew to the headband. Add a small green leaf.

Rose Mary Jane Shoes

Using Yarn F (Rose/Berry), cast on 12 stitches.

• Sole: Knit 10 rows in Garter Stitch. Pick up 30 stitches around the edge.
• Upper: Work 4 rows in St st.
• Toe: K8, (K2tog) 7 times, K8. (23 sts).
• Strap: Cast off all but the center 3 stitches. Knit a strip for the strap. Sew to sides.
• Decoration: Add a small embroidered rose to the toe of each shoe.

The Quilted Clutch Bag

Using Yarn F (Rose), cast on 14 stitches. Work 20 rows in a “diamond brocade” stitch (alternating knits and purls to create diamonds) to simulate quilting. Fold in half. Sew the sides. Add a small flap and button closure.

The White Dove Companion

Our bunny’s friend is a gentle dove.

• Body: Cast on 8 stitches with Yarn D (White). Increase to 16. Knit 8 rows. Decrease to 8. Draw through for the tail.
• Head: Pick up 10 stitches at the front. Increase to 14. Knit 5 rows. Decrease and close.
• Wings: Knit two small white triangles and sew to the sides.
• Beak: Embroider a tiny beak in grey or pink.

Compact Mirror

Knit two small circles in Navy Blue. Cut a circle of foil or silver cardstock. Sandwich it between the knitted circles and sew around the edge. Embroider a pink rim to mimic a powder compact.

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.
   • (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 headband.
4. Dressing: Put on the Azalea dress first. Layer the cable cardigan over the top. Place the headband on the head. Secure the Mary Janes. Arrange the dove, clutch, and mirror.

Care Notes

Your Azalea Porch-Swing 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 sunroom, nursery, 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 dove beads) are double-stitched to the bunny or removed 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 or high-heat sources.

To preserve the vibrant rose and pink colors of the Azalea pattern, 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 dove’s beak securely embroidered?
• Are the cable details on the cardigan defined and neat?

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Congratulations on completing your Azalea Porch-Swing Bunny. This project is a celebration of southern charm, relaxation, and the timeless art of hand-knitting. Whether she sits on your mantle or becomes a treasured gift, she brings a sense of warm hospitality to her new home.