The Camellia Teatime Bunny is a vision of vintage elegance and cozy hospitality, capturing the serene atmosphere of a sophisticated afternoon tea in a blooming winter garden. This heirloom-quality project features a soft, cream-colored rabbit with a gentle, inviting expression, designed to be a cherished companion for generations. She is the perfect project for fiber artists who wish to create a timeless piece that symbolizes warmth, friendship, and the quiet joy of a hot cup of tea.
She is dressed in a meticulously detailed ensemble that reflects a palette of antique rose, cream, and warm biscuit tones. Her outfit consists of a textured cream dress featuring a skirt adorned with a large, three-dimensional camellia flower and a delicate scalloped hem. To keep warm, she wears a dusty pink bolero jacket with a Peter Pan collar. Her look is completed with a structured cream cloche hat featuring a matching camellia, sturdy shoes, and a tea set complete with a cup, saucer, and a plate of chocolate chip cookies. To achieve the crisp definition of the flower petals and the structural integrity of the miniature tea set, it is highly recommended to buy premium mercerized cotton yarn. This fiber choice ensures the 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 Camellia Teatime 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 30 to 40 hours, depending on your speed and attention to the miniature details like the tea cup construction and the tiny puppy companion holding a cookie. 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 definition needed for the tiny petals of the camellia 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 180g of Sport Weight or Light DK cotton yarn in “Cream,” “Oatmeal,” or “Vanilla.” A matte finish provides a natural, soft fur texture.
- Cardigan & Flower Accents: 60g of “Dusty Pink,” “Antique Rose,” or “Mauve” cotton yarn.
- Dress & Hat Yarn: 70g of “Cream” or “Ivory” cotton yarn (can match body or be slightly lighter).
- Tea Set & Cookies: Scraps of “Biscuit/Tan” and “Dark Brown” (for chips/tea).
- Puppy Companion: Beige and Brown yarn.
- Shoes: Cream yarn with Pink accents.
Essential Tools
- Crochet Hooks:
- 2.25mm (Size B/1): Essential for the amigurumi body, the tiny puppy, and the tea set to ensure a tight gauge.
- 2.75mm (Size C/2): Used for the dress skirt, 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 cardigan.
Standard Stitch Abbreviations and Guide
This project utilizes standard United States terminology. The complexity lies in the construction of the “Camellia Flower” appliqué and the shaping of the tea 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.
- Shell: A group of 5 dc in one stitch (used for the hem).
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 snout area. 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)
Round 4: Perform a sequence of [2 sc, 1 inc] repeat 6 times. (24)
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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 12-24: Work 1 sc in each of the 66 stitches around. This substantial section builds the vertical height of the face. Ensure your tension remains consistent so the fabric is smooth. (66)
Eye Placement and Face Sculpting
Pause your crocheting here. Insert the 12mm safety eyes between Round 18 and Round 19. 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 to give the face more depth, do not make the washers too tight against the fabric initially.
Round 25: Perform a sequence of [9 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (60)
Round 26: Perform a sequence of [8 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (54)
Round 27: Perform a sequence of [7 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (48)
Round 28: Perform a sequence of [6 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (42)
Round 29: 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 30: Perform a sequence of [4 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (30)
Round 31: Perform a sequence of [3 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (24)
Round 32: Perform a sequence of [2 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (18)
Round 33: Perform a sequence of [1 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (12)
Round 34: 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.
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 pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks using a soft brush to give her a warm glow.
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 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)
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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.
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 (if balanced correctly). Use the 2.25mm hook.
Legs (Make 2)
Round 1: Start with Cream yarn. Chain 7. 2 sc in 2nd ch, sc 4, 4 sc in last ch. Rotate. sc 4, 2 sc in last st. (16)
Round 2: Inc, sc 5, 4 inc, sc 5, inc. (22)
Round 3: Work in BLO. sc around. (22)
Rounds 4-5: sc around. (22)
Round 6: [5 sc, 1 dec] repeat 3 times, sc 1. (19)
Rounds 7-25: sc in each st around in Cream. Stuff the leg firmly as you go.
Fasten off the first leg. Do not fasten off the second leg. Chain 4 from the second leg and join to the first leg with a sc.
Body
Round 26: sc 19 around the first leg, sc 4 along the chain, sc 19 around the second leg, sc 4 along the other side of the chain. (46)
Round 27: [10 sc, 1 inc] repeat 4 times approx to reach 50 sts.
Rounds 28-38: sc in each st around. (50)
Round 39: [8 sc, 1 dec] repeat 5 times. (45)
Rounds 40-41: sc around. (45)
Round 42: [7 sc, 1 dec] repeat 5 times. (40)
Round 43: [6 sc, 1 dec] repeat 5 times. (35)
Round 44: [5 sc, 1 dec] repeat 5 times. (30)
Round 45: [3 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (24)
Round 46: [2 sc, 1 dec] repeat 6 times. (18)
Round 47: sc around. (18)
Fasten off. Stuff the neck area very firmly to support the head. Sew the head to the body.
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 4-22: 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 Camellia Dress
This dress is the centerpiece. It features a simple bodice and a full skirt adorned with a large flower. 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.
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Skirt
Round 12: *2 dc, 1 inc* around. (Increase for volume).
Rounds 13-20: Work dc in each st around.
Round 21 (Scalloped Hem): *skip 2, 6 dc in next st, skip 2, sl st in next* around. Fasten off.
Camellia Flower Appliqué
Make one large flower for the dress waist.
Center: With Pink yarn, MR 6 sc.
Petals (Layer 1): *Ch 2, 2 dc in same st, ch 2, sl st in same st* repeat 6 times.
Petals (Layer 2): Working behind layer 1, ch 3, sl st between petals. Create larger petals: *Ch 3, 3 tr, ch 3, sl st* in each chain space.
Leaves: With Green yarn, ch 6, sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc back down. Make 2. Sew the flower and leaves to the dress.
Part 5: The Dusty Pink Cardigan
A classic, cozy layer. Use Dusty 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 hdc across to create a soft texture. Fasten off.
Sleeves: Join yarn to armhole. Work 16 sc around for 10 rounds. Fasten off.
Collar: Attach yarn to the neck opening. Work 2 rows of sc to create a small stand-up collar or fold-down Peter Pan collar.
Part 6: The Camellia Cloche Hat
A vintage-style hat to match the dress. 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 9-12: sc in each st around.
Round 13 (Brim): Work in FLO. [3 sc, 1 inc] around. (60)
Round 14: [4 sc, 1 inc] around. (72)
Round 15: sc around. Fasten off.
Decoration: Crochet a large Camellia (same pattern as dress) using Cream or Pink yarn. Sew it to the side of the hat.
Part 7: Tea Time Accessories
The Tea Cup
Cup: With Cream/Beige yarn, MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Inc to 18. BLO sc around. Work 5 rounds up. Fasten off.
Handle: Ch 6. Sew to side.
Tea: Crochet a small flat circle in Brown (18 sts). Sew inside the cup.
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The Cookies (Make 3)
With Biscuit yarn, MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Fasten off.
Chips: Use Dark Brown embroidery floss to stitch small French knots on the surface.
The Plate
With Cream yarn, MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Inc to 18. Inc to 24. Fasten off. Stiffen with glue or use a cardboard insert.
The Puppy Companion
Head: Beige yarn. MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Work 3 rounds. Dec to 6. Close.
Body: Beige yarn. MR 6 sc. Inc to 12. Work 3 rounds. Dec to 6. Sew to head.
Ears: Brown yarn. Ch 4, sc back. Sew to head.
Legs: Ch 3, sc back. Make 4. Sew to body.
Cookie: Tack a cookie to the puppy’s paws.
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.
Flower: Sew a tiny pink flower button or crochet rosette to the side of the strap.
Final Assembly and Facial Detailing
Now that all components are ready, it is time to bring the Camellia Teatime 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. Fasten the back. Put on the shoes. Add the cardigan and the hat.
- Props: Arrange the tea cup and cookie plate near the bunny. Position the puppy holding a cookie at her feet.
- Blush: Use a soft brush to apply pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks and inside the ears.
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 embroider the “chips” on the cookies?
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 Camellia Teatime Bunny is now complete. This character serves as a cozy tribute to the elegance of tea time and the beauty of friendship. We hope this project brought you joy and relaxation.
