Knitting: Fuchsia Teardrop-Lace Bunny – Knitting Pattern

Welcome to the vibrant and elegant world of the Fuchsia Teardrop-Lace Bunny. This striking project captures the drama and beauty of late summer blooms, specifically the weeping elegance of fuchsia flowers and the intricate patterns of morning dew. Our sophisticated rabbit character is a vision of bold color and delicate texture, ready to attend a garden gala or sit gracefully in a collector’s display.

She wears a show-stopping dress knitted in a vivid, jewel-toned fuchsia yarn. The skirt features a complex “Teardrop Lace” stitch pattern that creates openwork eyelets resembling falling petals or rain. To complement the brightness of the dress, she wears a deep plum or blackberry-colored bolero cardigan with ribbed cuffs. Her ensemble is completed with a structured hat, matching shoes, and a collection of accessories including a lace reticule bag and a tiny hummingbird friend. To ensure your finished bunny achieves the luxurious, professional finish seen in the photos, we highly recommend visiting your favorite local yarn shop to select the finest materials.

You will want to buy merino wool yarn in a soft oatmeal or biscuit shade for the bunny’s skin to create a warm, natural texture that is durable yet soft to the touch. For the intricate clothing, such as the lace dress, consider purchasing cotton yarn or a silk-wool blend to ensure the stitch definition is crisp and the lace blocking holds its shape. Before you begin, take a moment to check your knitting supplies; ensure you have a set of smooth bamboo knitting needles, a tapestry needle for assembly, and plenty of premium fiberfill. If you are ready to create this masterpiece, check your knitting bag for stitch markers and let’s cast on.

 

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 Design Philosophy

The Fuchsia Teardrop-Lace Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The construction is designed to be robust, with the body and head knitted in pieces and seamed. This traditional method allows for precise shaping of the curves, ensuring the doll maintains its posture over time.

The wardrobe is a study in advanced texture. The dress uses a specific lace chart (written out below) to create the teardrop motif. This requires attention to yarn overs and decreases. The bolero jacket provides a solid, dark contrast to ground the bright dress.

The accessories are delicate. The reticule (handbag) uses the same lace pattern as the dress, tying the look together. The hummingbird is a tiny, detailed knit that adds a touch of nature’s jewelry to the scene.

Materials and Tools Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Skin): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Sand, or Light Beige.
• Yarn B (Dress & Bag): 80g DK weight yarn in Bright Fuchsia or Magenta.
• Yarn C (Bolero & Hat Band): 50g DK weight yarn in Deep Plum or Blackberry.
• Yarn D (Hat Base): 40g DK weight yarn in Pale Pink or Cream.
• Yarn E (Hummingbird): Scraps of Emerald Green, Ruby Red, and White.
• Needles: US 3 (3.25mm) straight needles for the main body and clothing.
• Needles (Detailing): US 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature accessories.
• Notions: Cable needle, tapestry needle, polyester fiberfill, two 9mm safety eyes (bunny), embroidery floss (black, pink, white), stitch holders, small buttons (pearl buttons look best).

Gauge and Tension

The target gauge is 24 stitches and 30 rows equal to 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. A firm gauge is essential for the stuffed components.

If your fabric is too loose, the stuffing will show through, detracting from the professional finish. If you are a loose knitter, consider sizing down your needles. Consistency is key when making matching limbs.

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• Sts: Stitches
• Inc: Increase (Knit into the front and back of the stitch – KFB).
• Dec: Decrease (Knit 2 together – K2tog).
• SSK: Slip, Slip, Knit (decrease).
• YO: Yarn Over.
• SK2P: Slip 1, K2tog, pass slipped stitch over.
• RS: Right Side
• WS: Wrong Side
• Stockinette Stitch: Knit on the Right Side, Purl on the Wrong Side.

Part 1: Constructing the Oatmeal Bunny Body

We begin the construction by knitting the legs individually. This provides a solid foundation for the doll to stand or sit. We will then join them to form the torso and continue seamlessly into the head.

Legs (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal) and US 3 needles, cast on 12 stitches. Leave a long tail for seaming later. This tail will be used to sew up the foot and the back of the leg.

• Row 1: Purl all stitches across the row. This sets up the wrong side.
• Row 2 (Increase): Knit into the front and back of every stitch. You will now have 24 stitches. This rapid increase creates the base of the foot pad.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches. Keep your tension even to avoid gaps.
• Row 4 (Increase): *Knit 1, Inc*, repeat from * to * to the end of the row. (36 sts). This widens the foot to create a cute, chubby paw.
• Rows 5-9: Work in stockinette stitch starting with a Purl row. This smooth section forms the height of the foot.
• Row 10 (Shape Foot): Knit 12, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 12. This creates the instep of the foot, curving the fabric to form the toe area. (30 sts)
• Row 11: Purl all stitches.
• Row 12 (Shape Foot): Knit 9, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 9. (24 sts). The foot is now taking its final shape.
• Row 13: Purl all stitches.
• Row 14 (Ankle Shaping): Knit 8, (K2tog) 4 times, Knit 8. (20 sts). This tightens the ankle to define the leg.
• Rows 15-42: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This long section forms the leg. Ensure your tension remains even here so both legs are identical in length.

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Break the yarn for the first leg and place the stitches on a stitch holder or a spare piece of yarn. Knit the second leg in the exact same manner, but do not break the yarn. We will use this working yarn to join the two pieces together.

Torso and Head

With the second leg on your needle, cast on 2 stitches (this forms the crotch space), then knit across the 20 stitches of the first leg from the holder.

• Row 43: You should now have 42 stitches on your needle. Ensure both legs are facing the same way (Right Side facing you).
• Row 44: Purl all stitches. Treat the new cast-on stitches carefully so they don’t stretch.
• Row 45 (Hip Increase): Knit 10, Inc, Knit 20, Inc, Knit 10. (44 sts). This increase helps shape the bunny’s bottom.
• Row 46: Purl all stitches.
• Row 47 (Hip Increase): Knit 11, Inc, Knit 20, Inc, Knit 11. (46 sts).
• Rows 48-68: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This forms the tummy area. Stuffing this area firmly later is key to a good shape.
• Row 69 (Decrease): *Knit 8, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to last 6 stitches, Knit 6. (42 sts). We are now beginning to shape the chest.
• Row 70: Purl all stitches.
• Row 71 (Decrease): *Knit 5, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (36 sts).
• Rows 72-76: Work straight in stockinette stitch to elongate the upper body slightly.
• Row 77 (Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (30 sts).
• Row 78: Purl all stitches.
• Row 79 (Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (24 sts).
• Row 80: Purl all stitches. This row marks the neck.

We will now transition directly into the head. It is important to stuff the neck very firmly during assembly to prevent the head from wobbling.

• Row 81 (Increase): *Knit 1, Inc*, repeat from * to * to the end. (36 sts). The head begins to widen immediately.
• Row 82: Purl all stitches.
• Row 83 (Increase): *Knit 2, Inc*, repeat from * to * to the end. (48 sts).
• Row 84: Purl all stitches.
• Row 85 (Increase): *Knit 7, Inc*, repeat from * to * to the end. (54 sts). This gives the bunny lovely chubby cheeks.
• Rows 86-106: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This height is necessary to give the bunny its classic round face and room for eye placement.
• Row 107 (Decrease): *Knit 7, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (48 sts). We begin closing the top of the head.
• Row 108: Purl all stitches.
• Row 109 (Decrease): *Knit 6, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (42 sts).
• Row 110: Purl all stitches.
• Row 111 (Decrease): *Knit 5, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (36 sts).
• Row 112: Purl all stitches.
• Row 113 (Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (30 sts).
• Row 114 (Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (24 sts).
• Row 115 (Decrease): *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (18 sts).
• Row 116 (Decrease): *Knit 1, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (12 sts).
• Row 117: K2tog across the row. (6 sts).

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread the tail through the remaining loops using a tapestry needle, pull tight to close the top of the head, and secure with a knot.

Arms (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal), cast on 10 stitches.

• Row 1: Purl all stitches.
• Row 2 (Increase): Increase in every stitch. (20 sts).
• Rows 3-26: Work in stockinette stitch. This forms the length of the arm.
• Row 27: *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat to the end. (15 sts). Shaping the shoulder.
• Row 28: Purl all stitches.
• Row 29: K2tog across to the last stitch, Knit 1. (8 sts).

Cut yarn, draw through stitches, and sew the side seam. Stuff the hand area firmly and the upper arm lightly to allow movement.

Ears (Make 2)

The ears are long and floppy, adding to the bunny’s gentle character. Using Yarn A, cast on 14 stitches.

• Rows 1-42: Work in stockinette stitch. You can make these longer or shorter depending on your preference.
• Row 43 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 10, K2tog. (12 sts). Tapering the tip.
• Row 44: Purl all stitches.
• Row 45 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 8, K2tog. (10 sts).
• Row 46: Purl all stitches.
• Row 47 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 6, K2tog. (8 sts).
• Row 48: Purl all stitches.
• Row 49 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 4, K2tog. (6 sts).
• Row 50: Purl all stitches.
• Row 51 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 2, K2tog. (4 sts).
• Row 52: K2tog twice. Fasten off.

Part 2: The Fuchsia Teardrop-Lace Dress

This dress is a stunning display of lace knitting. The “Teardrop” pattern creates vertical columns of eyelets that resemble falling rain or petals. It requires concentration but produces a beautiful fabric.

Understanding the Teardrop Lace Pattern

Before casting on the skirt, familiarize yourself with this multiple of 6 stitches + 1.

• Row 1 (RS): K1, *YO, SSK, K1, K2tog, YO, K1*, repeat to end.
• Row 2 and all WS rows: Purl all stitches.
• Row 3: K1, *K1, YO, SK2P (Slip 1, K2tog, Pass slip stitch over), YO, K2*, repeat to end.
• Row 4: Purl.

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Skirt Construction

Using Yarn B (Fuchsia), cast on 73 stitches (12 repeats of the 6-stitch pattern + 1 edge stitch).

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) to create a flat, non-rolling hem.
• Rows 5-28: Work in the Teardrop Lace Pattern (repeating Rows 1-4). This section creates the intricate, openwork skirt.
• Rows 29-34: Work in Stockinette stitch. This provides a solid transition area before the waist.

Waist and Bodice

We will now decrease for the waist to create a gathered look.

• Row 35 (Waist Decrease): *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the last stitch, K1. (55 sts)
• Row 36: Purl all stitches.
• Row 37 (Waist Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (44 sts)
• Rows 38-42: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 43 (Armhole Shaping): Knit 8, cast off 4 stitches, Knit 20, cast off 4 stitches, Knit 8.
• Row 44: Purl 8, cast on 4 stitches, Purl 20, cast on 4 stitches, Purl 8. (44 sts)
• Rows 45-48: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 49: Knit across (Garter ridge).
• Row 50: Cast off loosely.

Sew the back seam of the skirt up to the waist. Leave the bodice open and attach a small snap fastener or a pearl button.

Part 3: The Plum Bolero Cardigan

The bolero is knitted in Yarn C (Deep Plum) and is a short, cropped jacket designed to show off the waist of the dress. It features a simple texture to contrast with the busy lace of the skirt.

Back Panel

Cast on 34 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for the hem.
• Rows 5-16: Work in stockinette stitch. (This is shorter than a standard cardigan).
• Row 17 (Armhole): Cast off 3 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows. (28 sts)
• Rows 19-28: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 29: Cast off all stitches.

Left Front

Cast on 18 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-16: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 17: Cast off 3 stitches at the armhole edge.
• Rows 18-24: Work straight.
• Row 25 (Neck): Cast off 5 stitches at the neck edge.
• Row 26: Purl.
• Row 27: Decrease 1 stitch at the neck edge.
• Row 29: Cast off remaining stitches.

Right Front

Work as for the Left Front, reversing the shaping for the armhole and neck.

Sleeves (Make 2)

Cast on 20 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Cuff).
• Rows 5-18: Work in stockinette stitch, increasing 1 stitch at each end of Row 8. (22 sts)
• Row 19: Cast off.

Finishing: Sew shoulder seams. Sew sleeves into armholes. Sew side seams. Pick up stitches along the front opening and knit 2 rows of garter stitch for a finished edge.

Part 4: The Structured Hat

This hat features a dual-color design with a pale pink brim and a deep plum band.

• Brim: Using Yarn D (Pale Pink), cast on 60 stitches.
• Rows 1-6: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) to create a stiff brim.
• Row 7: Change to Yarn C (Plum). Knit across.
• Rows 8-10: Work in Stockinette stitch in Plum (The Hat Band).
• Row 11: Change back to Yarn D (Pale Pink). Knit across.
• Rows 12-20: Work in stockinette stitch for the crown.
• Row 21 (Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 22: Purl.
• Row 23 (Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 24: Purl.
• Row 25 (Decrease): *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 26: Purl.
• Row 27 (Decrease): *Knit 1, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 28: K2tog across.

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Draw yarn through remaining stitches and sew the back seam. Attach a small fuchsia ribbon or knitted flower to the plum band.

Part 5: Fuchsia Mary Jane Shoes

Using Yarn B (Fuchsia), cast on 12 stitches.

• Sole: Knit 10 rows in Garter Stitch.
• Upper: Pick up 30 stitches around three sides of the sole rectangle.
• Rows 1-5: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 6 (Toe Shaping): Knit 10, (K2tog) 5 times, Knit 10. (25 sts)
• Row 7: Purl all stitches.
• Row 8 (Toe Shaping): Knit 10, (K2tog) 3 times, Knit 9. (22 sts)
• Row 9: Cast off.

Sew the back heel seam. Crochet a strap and sew a pearl button on the side.

Part 6: Accessories

The Lace Reticule (Handbag)

This bag uses the same stitch pattern as the dress.

• Using Yarn B (Fuchsia), cast on 19 stitches (3 repeats of the 6-stitch pattern + 1).
• Work 4 rows in Garter Stitch (Base).
• Work 12 rows in the Teardrop Lace Pattern.
• Work 2 rows Garter Stitch.
• Eyelet Row for Drawstring: *K1, YO, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Knit 1 row. Cast off.
• Fold in half, sew side seams. Thread a ribbon or I-cord through the eyelets to close.

The Hummingbird Companion

Using Yarn E (Green, Red, White), US 2 needles.

• Body: Cast on 8 stitches in Green. Increase to 16. Work 6 rows stockinette. Decrease to 8. Draw through. Stuff firmly.
• Head: Pick up 8 stitches. Work 4 rows. Decrease to point.
• Beak: Embroider a long, thin black beak.
• Wings (Make 2): Cast on 4 stitches in Green. Knit 4 rows. Decrease to 2. Cast off. Sew to sides.
• Throat: Duplicate stitch a patch of Ruby Red on the chest.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The assembly process is where your bunny truly comes to life. Take your time with these steps to ensure a professional finish.

1. Body Assembly: Using the mattress stitch, sew the back seam of the legs and the center back of the body. Stuff the legs firmly to ensure the bunny can stand (if propped) or sit nicely. Leave the very top of the legs slightly softer to allow for bending at the hips. Stuff the body firmly.
2. Head Assembly: Sew the back seam of the head. Stuff the head into a round shape, ensuring the cheeks are plump and symmetrical. Ensure the neck is stuffed very firmly to support the head; you may want to insert a small roll of felt or extra stuffing into the neck column for stability.
3. Face:
   • Eyes: Insert the safety eyes between rows 90 and 91, spacing them about 9 stitches apart. If the head is already closed, you can use black embroidery thread to satin stitch the eyes.
   • Nose: Using dark brown embroidery floss, stitch a “Y” shape in the center of the face. Satin stitch a small triangle at the top of the “Y” for the nose to give it dimension.
4. Limbs: Sew the ears to the sides of the head, curving them slightly forward to frame the face. Sew the arms to the sides of the body just below the neck seam.

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Because this is a handmade item, likely containing wool, it requires specific care to last for generations.

• Dusting: Regularly dust the bunny with a soft brush or a lint roller to prevent dirt buildup on the textured knits.
• Washing: Never machine wash this bunny if you used wool. Instead, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild wool detergent. If a full wash is absolutely necessary, submerge gently in cool water with wool wash, press out excess water (do not wring), and reshape on a towel to dry.
• Storage: Store out of direct sunlight to prevent the colors from fading. If storing for a long period, place in a breathable cotton bag with a lavender sachet to repel moths.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Have all loose ends been woven in securely?
• Are the safety eyes secured properly (if used)?
• Is the stuffing distributed evenly, without lumps?
• Is the neck sturdy enough? (If not, you may need to open a seam and add more stuffing).
• Are all accessories (like the hummingbird’s beak) securely stitched if the toy is intended for a child?

Your Fuchsia Teardrop-Lace Bunny is now complete. This project is a celebration of bold color, intricate texture, and the art of knitting. Whether it sits on a velvet cushion or is given as a gift to a fashion-forward friend, it is sure to make a striking impression.