The Lantana Sunshine Spritz Bunny is a radiant celebration of summer gardening, capturing the vibrant warmth of the sun and the refreshing feeling of a cool mist on a hot afternoon. This heirloom-quality project features a soft, sandy-beige rabbit character, meticulously sculpted to possess a bright and cheerful expression, ready to tend to her flourishing flower beds.
She is dressed in a delightful ensemble that reflects the changing colors of Lantana blooms. Her outfit consists of a peach and coral dress featuring a spectacular hemline adorned with clusters of yellow and pink flowers, mimicking the multi-colored nature of the plant. To protect herself from the midday rays, she wears a structured peach bucket hat with a large floral accent.
To achieve the intricate definition of the floral hem and the structural integrity of the miniature watering can bag, it is highly recommended to buy premium mercerized cotton yarn. This fiber choice ensures the citrus tones remain bright and the accessories hold their shape perfectly over time. If you love to shop for artisan handmade collectibles supplies, this project is a wonderful way to utilize your high-end stash.
Creating this doll is a journey into the world of miniature botanical art. From the tiny bird companion to the intricate “spritz” bottle and potted succulents, every element adds to the narrative of a thriving garden sanctuary.
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 Lantana Sunshine Spritz 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 20 to 30 hours, depending on your speed and attention to the miniature details like the tiny potted plants and the watering can construction. It is a labor of love intended to result in a collectible item or a cherished gift for a loved one.
Choosing Your Yarn
Selecting the right materials is the first step to success. While acrylic yarn is affordable, it often lacks the crispness needed for the tiny petals of the lantana flowers. Cotton is superior here. When you order high-quality amigurumi supplies, look for matte finishes for the bunny skin and slight sheens for the clothing.
Yarn Requirements
- Bunny Body Yarn: Approximately 150g of Sport Weight or Light DK cotton yarn in “Sand,” “Biscuit,” or “Warm Beige.” A matte finish provides a natural, soft fur texture.
- Dress Yarn: 70g of Peach, Coral, or Salmon cotton yarn. This serves as the main color for the gown.
- Lantana Accents: Scraps of Butter Yellow, Bright Pink, and Orange for the flower clusters.
- Cardigan Yarn: 50g of Cream or Ivory cotton yarn.
- Hat Yarn: Peach or Apricot to match the dress.
- Watering Can/Spritz Bag: Tan or Beige yarn.
- Bird Companion: Teal, Blue, and Yellow yarn.
- Accessories: Terracotta (pots), Green (succulents), Grey (garden tools).
Essential Tools
- Crochet Hooks:
- 2.25mm (Size B/1): Essential for the amigurumi body, the tiny bird, and the pots to ensure a tight gauge.
- 2.75mm (Size C/2): Used for the dress, 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 5mm black eyes or beads for the bird.
- Stuffing: Premium grade, high-loft polyester fiberfill.
- Embroidery Floss: Dark brown for the nose; Pink for cheeks.
- Notions: Long tapestry needle, stitch markers, small buttons for the shoes.
Standard Stitch Abbreviations and Guide
This project utilizes standard United States terminology. The complexity lies in the construction of the “Cluster” stitch on the dress hem and the structural crochet for the watering can. 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.
- Bobble/Cluster: A group of stitches worked into the same space to create a 3D texture.
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 top and widens at the cheeks to give a “baby face” look. Use the 2.25mm hook and Sand 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)
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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 12-25: Work 1 sc in each of the 66 stitches around. This substantial section (14 rounds) builds the height of the face. Ensure your tension remains consistent so the fabric is smooth. (66)
Eye Placement and Face Sculpting Preparation
Pause your crocheting here. Insert the 12mm safety eyes between Round 19 and Round 20. Position them approximately 12 stitches apart. Ensure they are level before snapping the back washers on.
Round 26: Perform a sequence of [9 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (60)
Round 27: Perform a sequence of [8 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (54)
Round 28: Perform a sequence of [7 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (48)
Round 29: Perform a sequence of [6 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (42)
Round 30: 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 31: Perform a sequence of [4 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (30)
Round 32: Perform a sequence of [3 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (24)
Round 33: Perform a sequence of [2 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (18)
Round 34: Perform a sequence of [1 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (12)
Round 35: 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 cosmetic blush to the cheeks using a soft brush.
Part 2: The Long Floppy 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 Sand 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)
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.
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Part 3: Legs and Body Construction
The body is constructed by making two legs and joining them together. This creates a stable base for the bunny to stand (with support). Use the 2.25mm hook.
Legs (Make 2)
Round 1: Start with Light Blue or Teal yarn (for the shoes). Magic Ring, 6 sc. (6)
Round 2: 6 inc. (12)
Round 3: [1 sc, 1 inc] repeat around. (18)
Rounds 4-5: sc in each st around. (18)
Round 6: Work in BLO (Back Loop Only). sc around. This creates a defined edge for the sole of the foot. (18)
Round 7: Switch to Sand yarn (skin). Work in BLO. sc around. (18)
Rounds 8-25: sc in each st around in Sand. (18)
Fasten off the first leg. Do not fasten off the second leg. Chain 3 and join to the first leg with a sc.
Body Construction
Round 26: sc 18 around the first leg, sc 3 along the chain, sc 18 around the second leg, sc 3 along the other side of the chain. (42)
Round 27: Perform [6 sc, 1 inc] repeat around. (48)
Rounds 28-38: sc in each st around. (48)
Round 39: Perform [6 sc, 1 dec] repeat around. (42)
Rounds 40-41: sc around. (42)
Round 42: Perform [5 sc, 1 dec] repeat around. (36)
Rounds 43-44: sc around. (36)
Round 45: Perform [4 sc, 1 dec] repeat around. (30) Stuff the body firmly at this point.
Round 46: Perform [3 sc, 1 dec] repeat around. (24)
Round 47: Perform [2 sc, 1 dec] repeat around. (18)
Round 48: sc around. Fasten off, leaving a long tail to sew the head to the neck.
Arms (Make 2)
Round 1: With Sand 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 4-28: 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.
Part 4: The Lantana Garden Dress
This dress is the centerpiece of the “Sunshine Spritz” theme. It features a fitted peach bodice and a full skirt with a colorful floral hem mimicking Lantana clusters. Use Peach 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 13-20: Work dc in each st around.
The Lantana Hem
This is where we add the “Sunshine” detailing. We will create small clusters of flowers along the hem.
Round 21: Switch to Green yarn. *sc 3, ch 3 (leaf loop), sc 3* around.
Round 22: In each ch-3 leaf loop, work a floral cluster using Yellow, Pink, and Orange yarn scraps.
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Cluster Instruction: Attach Yellow. *Ch 2, dc2tog, ch 2, sl st* (one petal). Repeat with Pink and Orange in the same loop to create a multi-colored cluster.
Round 23: Work a final round of sc in Peach behind the flowers to stabilize the hem.
Part 5: The Cream Bolero Cardigan
This jacket adds a layer of warmth and texture. Use Cream 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 “Seed Stitch” (*sc 1, dc 1* repeat) across to create a pebbled texture. Fasten off.
Sleeves: Join yarn to armhole. Work 16 sc around for 10 rounds. Fasten off.
Decoration: Embroider tiny coral flowers on the lapels of the cardigan.
Part 6: The Peach Bucket Hat
A classic sun hat to protect the bunny in the garden. Use Peach 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)
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 large Hibiscus-style flower in Coral and Pink. Sew it to the side of the hat band with a teal leaf.
Part 7: Gardening Accessories
The “Spritz” Watering Can Bag
This unique accessory mimics a watering can.
Body: With Tan/Beige yarn, MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Inc to 18. BLO sc around. Work 10 rounds up to form a cylinder.
Spout: Ch 6, join to form ring. Sc around for 6 rounds. Sew to the side of the body at an angle.
Rose (Sprinkler head): Crochet a small flat circle in Tan. Sew to the end of the spout.
Handle: Ch 25. Sew to the top rim and back of the body.
Strap: Ch 50. Attach to sides to wear as a bag.
Label: Embroider the word “SPRITZ” on a small rectangle of lighter fabric and sew it to the bag.
Tiny Bird Companion
Body: With Teal yarn, MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Work 3 rounds. Change to Yellow for the belly. Work 3 rounds. Dec to 6. Close.
Wings: Blue yarn. Ch 4, 3 dc in first ch. Sew to sides.
Beak: Tiny stitch in Orange.
Potted Succulents
Pot: Terracotta yarn. MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. BLO sc around. Work 3 rounds.
Soil: Dark Brown flat circle sewn inside.
Plant: Green yarn. Make varying shapes (tiny bobbles for cactus, leaves for succulents) and sew to the soil.
Part 8: Shoe Finishing
Finish the shoes started on the legs.
Strap: Attach Teal yarn to the side of the shoe. Ch 8 across the foot. Sew to the other side.
Flower: Sew a tiny coral flower to the side of the strap.
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Final Assembly and Facial Detailing
Now that all components are ready, it is time to bring the Lantana Sunshine Spritz Bunny to life.
- Head Attachment: Pin the head to the neck opening. Ensure the nose is aligned with the center of the body. Whipstitch securely using Sand yarn. Add extra stuffing to the neck as you close the gap to prevent a floppy head.
- Limbs: Sew the arms to the sides of the body just below the neck.
- Dressing: Put the dress on feet first. Then put on the shoes. Add the cardigan and the hat.
- Props: Hang the watering can bag on her shoulder. Arrange the potted plants and the bird companion at her feet.
- Blush: Use a soft brush to apply pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks and the inside of the ears for a sun-kissed glow.
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 vibrant 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 embroider the “Spritz” label on the bag?
Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines
Because this doll uses premium cotton and has intricate details, 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.
Congratulations! Your Lantana Sunshine Spritz Bunny is now complete. This character serves as a joyful tribute to the beauty of summer gardens and the happiness of a sunny day. We hope this project brought you joy and relaxation.
