The Blossom Carousel Bunny is a nostalgic and enchanting project that captures the magic of a vintage fairground in the height of spring. This heirloom-quality design features a soft, cream-colored rabbit with a sweet, gentle expression, evoking memories of childhood rides on painted wooden horses. She is designed to be a treasured keepsake, perfect for collectors who appreciate the finer details of fiber art.
She is dressed in a romantic ensemble featuring a cream dress with a spectacular hemline adorned with a trailing vine of pastel flowers. To keep warm, she wears a textured antique-pink cardigan with a matching floral collar. Her look is completed with a cloche hat and a unique necklace featuring a wooden carousel horse. To achieve the delicate definition of the floral vines and the structural integrity of the miniature puppy companion, it is highly recommended to buy premium mercerized cotton yarn. This fiber choice ensures the pastel colors remain soft yet distinct. If you love to shop for artisan handmade collectibles supplies, this project is a wonderful way to utilize your high-end stash.
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 Blossom Carousel 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 floral embroidery and the tiny puppy. It is a labor of love intended to result in a collectible item or a cherished gift.
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 flowers. Cotton is superior here. When you order your supplies, look for matte finishes for the bunny skin and slight sheens for the clothing to create texture contrast.
Yarn Requirements
- Bunny Body Yarn: Approximately 150g of Sport Weight or Light DK cotton yarn in “Cream,” “Oatmeal,” or “Vanilla.” A matte finish provides a natural, soft fur texture.
- Dress & Hat Yarn: 70g of Cream or Ivory cotton yarn. This serves as the main canvas for the floral details.
- Cardigan Yarn: 50g of Antique Pink, Dusty Rose, or Mauve cotton yarn.
- Floral Accents: Scraps of Pastel Pink, Lilac, Lemon Yellow, and Sage Green (for leaves).
- Puppy Companion: Beige and White yarn.
- Accessories: A small wooden carousel horse charm (or brown yarn to crochet one).
Essential Tools
- Crochet Hooks:
- 2.25mm (Size B/1): Essential for the amigurumi body and the tiny puppy 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 puppy.
- 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 “Floral Vine” on the dress hem and the detailed accessories. 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: A cluster of dc stitches to create a small flower bud.
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 Cream 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 vertical 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 13 stitches apart. Ensure they are level before snapping the back washers on. If you plan to do needle sculpting (indenting the eyes) later, do not make the washers too tight against the fabric.
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 Lopped 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 Cream 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
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 Cream 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)
Rounds 7-8: sc in each st around. (18)
Round 9: Switch to Body Color (Cream). Work in BLO. sc around. (18)
Rounds 10-25: sc in each st around in Cream. (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 Cream 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 Floral Vine Dress
This dress is the centerpiece of the “Blossom” theme. It features a fitted bodice and a full skirt with a distinct scalloped hem embellished with a vine of flowers. 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 (The Scallop Base): *sc, skip 2, 5 dc in next, skip 2* around. Fasten off.
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The Floral Vine Embroidery
This creates the visual impact of the dress. We will embellish the area just above the scalloped hem.
- Step 1 (The Vine): Using Sage Green yarn, surface slip stitch or embroider a wavy line horizontally around the skirt, about 1 inch above the hem. Add small “V” shapes for leaves.
- Step 2 (The Flowers): Using Pink, Yellow, and Lilac yarn scraps, crochet tiny flowers.
Tiny Flower Pattern: MR, *ch 2, sl st* repeat 5 times into ring. Pull tight.
- Step 3 (Assembly): Sew these tiny flowers onto the green vine at regular intervals.
Part 5: The Antique Pink Cardigan
This jacket adds a layer of warmth and texture. Use Antique Pink 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 “Lemon Peel Stitch” (*sc, dc* repeat) across to create a textured fabric. Fasten off.
Sleeves: Join yarn to armhole. Work 16 sc around for 10 rounds. Fasten off.
The Floral Collar
Using the same Tiny Flower Pattern as the dress (see above), make 5-6 flowers in various pastel colors. Sew these along the neckline of the cardigan to create a floral collar.
Part 6: The Cloche Hat
A classic hat to complete the look. 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)
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 larger flower (3 layers of petals) in Pink and Yellow. Sew it to the side of the hat.
Part 7: Accessories
The Carousel Necklace
If you have a wooden carousel horse charm, simply thread it onto a piece of twine or a crochet chain made of brown yarn. If you wish to crochet one:
Horse Profile: Sketch a simple horse shape on felt or crochet a flat shape using sc and increases to mimic a head and body. This requires improvisation or a specific micro-crochet pattern.
The Puppy Companion
Head: Beige yarn. MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Inc to 18. Work 3 rounds. Dec to 12. Dec to 6.
Body: Beige yarn. MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Work 4 rounds. Dec to 6.
Assembly: Sew head to body. Add tiny ears (ch 3 loops).
Flower Crown: Use green thread to make a loop. Sew beads or French knots as flowers around the puppy’s head.
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Part 8: Shoe Finishing
Finish the shoes started on the legs.
Strap: Attach Cream yarn to the side of the shoe. Ch 8 across the foot. Sew to the other side.
Decoration: Sew a tiny Pink flower to the side of the strap.
Final Assembly and Facial Detailing
Now that all components are ready, it is time to bring the Blossom Carousel 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 Cream 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: Place the necklace around her neck. Place the puppy at her feet. Put the bouquet in her hand (tack with a stitch).
- Blush: Use a soft brush to apply pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks and the inside of the ears for a warm, living 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 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 secure the flowers on the dress hem tightly?
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 Blossom Carousel Bunny is now complete. This character serves as a cozy tribute to the beauty of spring and the nostalgia of childhood. We hope this project brought you joy and relaxation.
