Lupine Windbreaker Wander Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the refreshing and adventurous world of the Lupine Windbreaker Wander Bunny. This project captures the spirit of a crisp morning hike through high-altitude meadows, where the air is cool, and the purple lupines stand tall against the greenery. Our intrepid rabbit character is a hiker and a nature enthusiast, dressed in an ensemble that blends practical outdoor gear with the delicate beauty of wildflowers. She is ready to map out new trails and discover hidden wonders.

To ensure your finished bunny achieves the durable, professional finish seen in the photos, we highly recommend visiting your favorite local yarn shop to select the best 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. The natural crimp of wool helps the stuffing settle evenly, creating a smooth silhouette.

For the intricate clothing, such as the colorwork windbreaker and the detailed backpack, consider purchasing cotton yarn or a sport-weight wool blend. These fibers provide excellent stitch definition, which is crucial for the geometric bands on the jacket and the floral embroidery to stand out clearly. 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 explore the great outdoors, check your knitting bag for stitch markers and let us 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 Lupine Windbreaker Wander 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 to allow for precise shaping of the curves. This method ensures the doll maintains its posture over time, whether she is standing on a rocky trail or resting on a log.

The wardrobe is a study in outdoor utility mixed with botanical charm. The dress features a cream base with a spectacular border of purple lupines rising from the hem. The windbreaker is the statement piece, knitted in a denim blue with geometric colorwork across the chest and a practical collar. The accessories are narrative-driven, with the backpack, map, binoculars, and the adorable frog companion in his rain slicker adding layers of storytelling to the piece.

Materials and Tools Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Skin): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Sand, or Light Beige.
• Yarn B (Windbreaker & Hat): 80g DK weight yarn in Denim Blue or Slate.
• Yarn C (Skirt Base): 60g DK weight yarn in Cream or Off-White.
• Yarn D (Lupines & Leaves): 30g DK weight yarn in Purple (various shades) and Fern Green.
• Yarn E (Shoes): 20g DK weight yarn in White or Cream.
• Yarn F (Backpack): 30g DK weight yarn in Tan or Beige.
• Yarn G (Frog): Small amount of Green and Yellow (for raincoat).
• 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), two small beads (frog eyes), embroidery floss (black, blue, green), stitch holders, small buttons.

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 to ensure the bunny stands evenly.

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.
• 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. (30 sts). This creates the instep of the foot, curving the fabric to form the toe area.
• 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.

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Part 2: The Lupine Meadow Dress

This dress is designed to represent a field of wild lupines. It features a cream base with a stunning border of purple flowers rising from green foliage.

Skirt with Lupine Border

Using Yarn C (Cream), cast on 72 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for a sturdy hem.
• Rows 5-8: Work in stockinette stitch in Cream.
• Row 9 (Begin Colorwork): Join Yarn D (Green). We will create the leaves and stems.

  Pattern (Stems): *Knit 3 Cream, Knit 1 Green, Knit 3 Cream*, repeat to end.

• Row 10: *Purl 2 Cream, Purl 3 Green, Purl 2 Cream*.
• Row 11: Join Yarn D (Purple). *Knit 2 Cream, Knit 1 Purple (Flower Base), Knit 1 Green, Knit 1 Purple, Knit 2 Cream*.
• Rows 12-16: Continue working the flower spikes, making them taller in the center. Use a mix of dark and light purple if available to give depth to the lupine spires.
• Row 17: Break contrast colors. Knit across in Cream.
• Rows 18-34: Work in stockinette stitch in Cream.

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 end. (54 sts)
• Row 36: Purl all stitches.
• Row 37 (Waist Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (45 sts)
• Rows 38-42: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 43 (Armhole Shaping): Knit 8, cast off 4 stitches, Knit 21, cast off 4 stitches, Knit 8.
• Row 44: Purl 8, cast on 4 stitches, Purl 21, cast on 4 stitches, Purl 8. (45 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.

Part 3: The Denim Windbreaker

The windbreaker is knitted in Yarn B (Denim Blue). It features a high collar and a geometric colorwork band across the chest.

Back Panel

Cast on 34 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for the hem.
• Rows 5-18: Work in stockinette stitch using Denim Blue.
• Row 19 (Chest Colorwork): Join Cream. Work a simple zig-zag or “mountains” pattern across the chest for 4 rows.
• Row 23: Switch back to Denim Blue only.
• Row 24 (Armhole): Cast off 3 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows. (28 sts)
• Rows 26-34: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 35: Cast off all stitches.

Left Front

Cast on 19 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-18: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Rows 19-22: Work the chest colorwork pattern to match the back.
• Row 24: Cast off 3 stitches at the armhole edge.
• Rows 25-30: Work straight.
• Row 31 (Neck): Cast off 5 stitches at the neck edge.
• Row 32: Purl.
• Row 33: Decrease 1 stitch at the neck edge.
• Row 35: Cast off remaining stitches.

Right Front

Work as for the Left Front, reversing the shaping for the armhole and neck. Ensure the colorwork pattern aligns.

Sleeves (Make 2)

Cast on 22 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch, increasing 1 stitch at each end of Row 8 and 16. (26 sts)
• Row 21: Cast off.

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Collar: After sewing the shoulders, pick up stitches around the neck opening. Knit 6 rows in Garter Stitch to create a stand-up collar. Cast off loosely.

Finishing: Sew the cardigan pieces together. You can add a small zipper or sew buttons on the front band.

Part 4: The Baseball Cap

This hat is sporty and fits snugly over the ears.

• Main Body: Cast on 50 stitches using Yarn B (Denim Blue).
• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-14: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 15 (Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 17 (Decrease): *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 19 (Decrease): *Knit 1, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 20: K2tog across. Draw yarn through remaining stitches.

Visor/Brim: Pick up 18 stitches along the cast-on edge at the center front.

Row 1: Knit.

Row 2: Purl.

Row 3: K2tog, Knit to last 2 sts, K2tog.

Row 4: Purl.

Repeat decrease rows until 10 stitches remain. Cast off. You may need to insert a small piece of card or plastic inside the brim to keep it stiff.

Part 5: White Hiking Shoes

Using Yarn E (White), 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. Use blue yarn to embroider a small flower on the toe.

Part 6: Adventure Accessories

The Hiker’s Backpack

Using Yarn F (Tan).

• Body: Cast on 18 stitches. Work in stockinette for 4 inches.
• Flap: Decrease 1 stitch at each end of the next 4 rows. Cast off.
• Assembly: Fold the bottom up to create a pouch. Sew side seams.
• Details: Add a small patch or button. Knit two long I-cords for straps and attach to the back.

The Frog Companion

Using Yarn G (Green/Yellow), US 2 needles.

• Body: Cast on 10 stitches in Green. Increase to 20. Knit 8 rows. Decrease to 10. Draw through. Stuff firmly.
• Raincoat: Using Yellow yarn, knit a small rectangle with a hood shape. Sew it around the frog’s body.
• Limbs: Knit 4 short I-cords for legs.
• Eyes: Sew two small black beads on top of the head.

Binoculars

Using Black yarn.

• Knit two small rectangles (10 sts x 8 rows). Roll them up tightly and sew to form cylinders.
• Sew the two cylinders together side-by-side.
• Add a long yarn strap.

Lupine Bouquet

• Stems: Knit 3 Green I-cords.
• Flowers: Use Purple yarn to make clusters of French knots along the top half of the stems.
• Tie the bouquet with twine.

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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.
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 frog’s beads) securely stitched if the toy is intended for a child?

Your Lupine Windbreaker Wander Bunny is now complete. This project is a celebration of the spirit of adventure, the beauty of the wild, and the art of knitting. Whether she sits on a shelf with her map or is given as a gift to a fellow explorer, she is sure to bring a sense of wonder and outdoor joy to her new home.