Queen-Anne Lace Marketday Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the charming world of the Queen-Anne Lace Marketday Bunny. This project captures the essence of a slow, sunny Sunday morning spent wandering through local stalls, collecting fresh bread and wildflowers. Our rabbit character is a vision of rustic elegance, dressed in layers of textured lace and soft denim blues.

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 lace details on the dress and the fine embroidery on the 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 Queen-Anne Lace Marketday Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The design philosophy centers on “Rustic Market Chic,” combining the neutral, earthy tones of oatmeal and straw with the calming, cool shade of slate blue. The aesthetic is grounded, practical, yet undeniably sweet.

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 on a park bench or standing on a shelf.

The wardrobe is the centerpiece of this design. The “Marketday Dress” features a creamy oatmeal base with a stunning lace-patterned hem and bodice detail, mimicking the delicate structure of Queen Anne’s Lace flowers. The accompanying blue cardigan adds a layer of warmth, featuring hand-embroidered botanical motifs on the lapels.

Every component, from the structured straw-colored hat with its black band to the tiny raccoon companion in his overalls, is designed to create a rich, narrative-driven scene. The inclusion of miniature props like the knitted baguette and tote bag emphasizes her role as a gatherer. Consistency in your stitch tension is the ultimate key to achieving a professional finish.

Yarn and Essential Materials Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Body): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Warm Sand, or Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Dress): 80g DK weight yarn in Light Cream or Natural Wool.
• Yarn C (Cardigan): 60g DK weight yarn in Slate Blue, Denim, or Cornflower.
• Yarn D (Hat & Bag): 40g DK weight yarn in Golden Beige or Straw color.
• Yarn E (Raccoon): 30g DK weight yarn in Heather Grey, Charcoal, and White.
• Yarn F (Raccoon Clothes): Scraps of Blue and Striped yarn.
• Needles: US size 3 (3.25mm) straight knitting needles for the main components.
• Detail Needles: US size 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature raccoon 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 raccoon.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, black embroidery floss, and a small piece of black ribbon for the hat.

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 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.

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).
• YO: Yarn Over (creates an eyelet for the lace details).
• 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.

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.

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 tote bag or the bouquet. 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 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 Market Wardrobe: Part 1 – The Lace Dress

The dress is the highlight of the bunny’s outfit. It features a flared skirt in Yarn B (Cream) with a delicate eyelet lace pattern at the hem and bodice. The texture evokes the airy quality of Queen Anne’s Lace flowers.

The Skirt and Lace Hem

Using Yarn B, cast on 80 stitches. We start at the hem to create the volume needed for the skirt. We will work a “feather and fan” or simple eyelet pattern to create a scalloped edge.

• Rows 1-2: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) to create a stable edge.
• Row 3 (Lace Row): K1, *K2tog, K2tog, YO, K1, YO, K1, YO, K1, YO, K2tog, K2tog*, repeat from * to last st, K1.
• Row 4: Purl all stitches.
• Rows 5-6: Repeat Rows 3 and 4. This establishes the lace border.
• Rows 7-30: 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 Dress Bodice and Neckline

Continuing from the waist, we transition to the upper part of the dress. We will repeat the lace motif on the chest to coordinate with the hem.

• Rows 32-36: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 37 (Chest Lace): K10, *K2tog, YO, K1, YO, K2tog*, repeat across center 20 sts, K10.
• Row 38: Purl all stitches.
• 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 only.

The Market Wardrobe: Part 2 – The Blue Cardigan

The cardigan adds a layer of warmth and color. Knitted in Yarn C (Slate Blue), it features an open front and fits neatly over the dress.

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.
• Row 17 (Split for Fronts/Back): K10 (Front), cast off 2, K20 (Back), cast off 2, K10 (Front).
• Work sections separately:
  • Back: Work 12 rows straight on the 20 stitches. Cast off.
  • Fronts: Work 12 rows on each 10-stitch section. Decrease 1 stitch at the neck edge on every RS row to create a gentle slope.
• Sleeves: Cast on 16 sts. Work 12 rows St st. Cast off. Sew into armholes.
• Embroidery: Use White and Green floss to embroider clusters of Queen Anne’s Lace (tiny French knots) on the left and right chest panels.

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Accessories: Hat, Shoes, and Props

The accessories define the character’s market-day activity. The hat protects her from the sun, while the bag holds her purchases.

The Straw Bucket Hat

Using Yarn D (Golden Beige), cast on 50 stitches.

• Brim: Knit 6 rows in Seed Stitch to create a textured, straw-like appearance.
• Body: Work 10 rows in stockinette stitch.
• Crown: *K3, K2tog*, repeat across. Purl back. *K2, K2tog*… continue until 8 stitches remain. Draw yarn through.
• Band: Tie a small black ribbon around the base of the crown or embroider a line of black chain stitches.

Beige Mary Jane Shoes

Using Yarn D (Beige), cast on 12 stitches.

• Sole: Knit 10 rows. Pick up 30 sts 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 T-strap (1 inch). Sew to the sides.

The Market Tote and Baguette

Tote Bag: Using Yarn D (Beige), cast on 18 stitches. Knit in Garter Stitch for 5 inches. Fold in half and sew side seams. Knit two handles and attach them.

Baguette: Using Yarn A (Oatmeal), cast on 10 stitches. Work in stockinette for 4 inches. Decrease at both ends to round it off. Sew the side seam and stuff firmly. Use brown thread to embroider diagonal “score lines” on the top to mimic baked bread.

The Raccoon Companion

Our bunny’s friend is a mischievous raccoon. He wears overalls and a cap.

Raccoon Body and Head

• Body: Cast on 10 stitches with Yarn E (Grey). Increase to 20. Knit 10 rows. Decrease to 10. Draw through.
• Head: Pick up 10 sts. Increase to 16. Change to Black for the “mask” area across the eyes, then back to Grey. Knit 6 rows. Close.
• Ears: Knit two tiny triangles in Grey and sew to the head.
• Tail: Knit an I-cord, alternating Black and Grey rows to create stripes.

Raccoon Clothes

• Shirt: Knit tiny striped sleeves (Blue/White) and sew to the body.
• Overalls: Using Blue yarn, knit a rectangle for the pants. Add a small bib piece and straps.
• Cap: Knit a small beige flat cap circle and sew it to the raccoon’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.
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.
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.
4. Dressing: Put on the lace dress first. Layer the blue cardigan over the top. Place the hat on the head. Secure the shoes. Place the baguette in the tote bag and loop it over the arm.

Care Notes

Your Queen-Anne Lace Marketday Bunny is a delicate piece of artisan craft. Because of the intricate lace 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 raccoon’s hat) are double-stitched to the bunny or the bag to prevent them from becoming a choking hazard. Safety is the priority.

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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. 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 soft cream and blue colors, 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.

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 raccoon companion’s tail securely attached?
• Is the lace pattern on the dress hem defined and blocked?

Congratulations on completing your Queen-Anne Lace Marketday Bunny. This project is a celebration of the simple joys of market days, nature, and the timeless art of hand-knitting. Whether she sits on your mantle or becomes a treasured gift, she brings a sense of rustic charm to her new home.