Foxglove Porchdream Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the enchanting and cozy world of the Foxglove Porchdream Bunny. This project captures the essence of a serene afternoon spent on a sun-drenched cottage porch, where tall foxglove spires sway in the breeze and the hum of bumblebees fills the air. Our gentle rabbit character is a dreamer and a gardener, dressed in an ensemble that mirrors the dusty mauve and cream hues of heritage blooms. She is the perfect companion for anyone who finds joy in the quiet details of a rural garden and the comfort of handmade crafts.

To ensure your finished bunny achieves the professional and high-quality 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. For the intricate clothing, such as the bell-shaped dress and the lace-detailed cardigan, consider purchasing cotton yarn or a high-quality wool blend to ensure the stitch definition is crisp. Before you begin, 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 bring this garden friend to life, check your knitting bag 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 Foxglove Porchdream Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall from the base of her feet to the top of her beret. The construction is designed to be robust, with the body and head knitted in pieces and seamed together. This traditional method allows for precise shaping of the facial curves and ankle definition, ensuring the doll maintains its posture over time, whether she is sitting on a porch bench or displayed on a collector’s shelf.

The wardrobe is a study in “Porchdream” aesthetics—soft, romantic, and nostalgic. The dress features a dusty mauve base with a striking 3D-effect hem of knitted foxglove bells. The cardigan adds a layer of cottage sophistication in a creamy off-white hue, featuring delicate lace-knit sleeves. The accessories are narrative-driven, with the tiny bumblebee companion and the miniature vase suggesting a story of a day spent harvesting beauty from the garden. This project is suitable for intermediate knitters who enjoy detailed assembly and surface embellishments.

Materials and Tools Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Skin): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Warm Sand, or Light Beige.
• Yarn B (Dress, Hat, Shoes): 80g DK weight yarn in Dusty Mauve or Rosewood.
• Yarn C (Cardigan, Handkerchief): 60g DK weight yarn in Cream, Ivory, or Off-White.
• Yarn D (Floral Accents): 30g DK weight yarn in Light Pink and Sage Green.
• Yarn E (Bee): Small amounts of Yellow, Black, and White.
• Yarn F (Bag & Vase): 30g DK weight yarn in Taupe or Light Brown.
• Needles: US 3 (3.25mm) straight needles for the main body and clothing.
• Needles (Detailing): US 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature accessories.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, polyester fiberfill, two 9mm safety eyes (bunny), small beads (bee eyes), embroidery floss (black, brown, green), stitch holders, small buttons.

Gauge and Tension

The target gauge for this project is 24 stitches and 30 rows equal to 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. A firm gauge is essential for the stuffed components of the bunny. If your fabric is too loose, the stuffing will show through the stitches when the toy is filled, detracting from the professional, high-end finish. If you are a naturally loose knitter, consider sizing down your needles to 2.75mm or 3.0mm. Consistency is key when making matching limbs to ensure the bunny stands evenly.

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• Sts: Stitches
• Inc: Increase (KFB – Knit into front and back of stitch).
• Dec: Decrease (K2tog – Knit 2 together).
• 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.
• Garter Stitch: Knit every row.

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. This method creates a continuous flow and minimizes bulky seams at the waist.

Legs (Make 2)

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

• Row 1: Purl all stitches across the row to set up the foundation.
• Row 2 (Increase): Knit into the front and back of every stitch. (24 sts). This rapid increase creates the base of the foot pad.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches. Keep your tension even to avoid gaps between stitches.
• 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 length of 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. 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 (the crotch), 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 forward.
• 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 for a seated posture.
• 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).
• 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.
• 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 cheeks a round shape.
• Rows 86-106: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This height is necessary to give room for safety eye placement.
• Row 107 (Decrease): *Knit 7, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (48 sts).
• Row 108: Purl all stitches.
• Row 109 (Decrease): *Knit 6, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (42 sts).
• Row 111 (Decrease): *Knit 5, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (36 sts).
• 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, 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.

Ears (Make 2)

The ears are long and floppy. Using Yarn A, cast on 14 stitches.

• Rows 1-42: Work in stockinette stitch. Keep edges neat for seaming.
• 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 47 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 6, K2tog. (8 sts).
• Row 49 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 4, K2tog. (6 sts).
• Row 51 (Decrease): SSK, Knit 2, K2tog. (4 sts).
• Row 52: K2tog twice. Fasten off.

Part 2: The Foxglove Bell Dress

This dress features a dusty mauve base and a unique 3D-effect hem where individual bell-shaped petals are knitted into the fabric or appliquéd to create the look of a foxglove spire.

Skirt with Foxglove Border

Using Yarn B (Dusty Mauve), cast on 72 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for a sturdy hem.
• Rows 5-8: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Foxglove Bells (Row 9): In this row, we will create the base for the bells. *Knit 7, work a small bobble or slip 1 to a holder*, repeat across.
• Rows 10-34: Work in stockinette stitch in Yarn B.

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The Bell Appliqués (Make 12)

To achieve the look of the foxglove flowers hanging from the skirt, knit small bell shapes using Yarn D (Light Pink).

• Cast on 8 stitches.
• Row 1-4: Stockinette stitch.
• Row 5: *K2tog* across. (4 sts).
• Row 6: Purl.
• Break yarn, draw through. Turn inside out to create a bell.
• Detail: Use dark purple embroidery floss to make tiny dots inside the mouth of the bell. Sew these at regular intervals around the hem of the skirt, adding a small green knitted “leaf” at the top of each bell using Yarn D.

Waist and Bodice

Decrease at the waist to create a gathered effect and proceed to the bodice.

• Row 35 (Waist Decrease): *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to end. (54 sts).
• Row 36: Purl all stitches.
• Row 37 (Waist Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to end. (45 sts).
• Rows 38-42: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 43 (Armhole Shaping): Knit 8, cast off 4 sts, Knit 21, cast off 4 sts, Knit 8.
• Row 44: Purl 8, cast on 4 sts, Purl 21, cast on 4 sts, Purl 8. (45 sts).
• Rows 45-48: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 49: Knit across.
• Row 50: Cast off loosely.

Sew the back seam of the skirt up to the waist. Attach a small snap fastener at the neck.

Part 3: The Cream Lace Cardigan

The cardigan is knitted in Yarn C (Cream) and features delicate lace sleeves that look like fine spiderwebs.

Back Panel

Cast on 32 stitches using Yarn C.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch).
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 21 (Armhole): Cast off 3 stitches at start of next 2 rows. (26 sts).
• Rows 23-34: Work straight in stockinette.
• Row 35: Cast off all stitches.

Left Front

Cast on 18 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 21: Cast off 3 stitches at armhole edge.
• Rows 22-28: Work straight.
• Row 29 (Neck): Cast off 5 stitches at neck edge.
• Row 31: Decrease 1 stitch at neck edge.
• Row 35: Cast off remaining stitches.

Right Front

Work as for Left Front, reversing the shaping. On the front panel, embroider a small purple foxglove bell and green stem using Yarn B and D.

Lace Sleeves (Make 2)

These sleeves use an eyelet pattern to create the lace effect.

• Cast on 20 stitches.
• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Row 5 (Eyelet Row): *K2, YO, K2tog, K1*, repeat across.
• Row 6: Purl all stitches.
• Rows 7-20: Repeat Rows 5-6, increasing 1 st at each end of Row 8 and 16. (24 sts).
• Row 21: Cast off.

Sew shoulders and side seams. Sew sleeves into armholes. Pick up stitches along front and knit 3 rows of garter stitch for the band.

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Part 4: The Mauve Beret

This hat is a stylish beret in Dusty Mauve, adorned with a massive 3D flower.

• Brim: Cast on 60 stitches using Yarn B (Mauve).
• Rows 1-6: Work in K1, P1 Ribbing.
• Row 7 (Increase): *K2, Inc* to end (80 sts).
• Rows 8-18: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 19 (Decrease): *K6, K2tog* to end.
• Row 21 (Decrease): *K5, K2tog* to end.
• Row 23 (Decrease): *K4, K2tog* to end.
• Row 25 (Decrease): *K2, K2tog* to end.
• Row 26: K2tog across. Draw yarn through.

Sew back seam.

Decoration: Knit a large flower. Cast on 40 stitches. Row 1: *K2tog, YO* across. Row 2: Purl. Row 3: *K2tog* across. Draw through and roll into a rosette. Sew to the side of the beret with green leaves.

Part 5: Mary Jane Shoes

Using Yarn B (Dusty Mauve), cast on 12 stitches. Build from the sole up.

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

Sew back heel. Create a strap across the instep and sew a tiny purple flower button to the side.

Part 6: Garden Accessories

The Tiny Bumblebee

Using Yarn E (Yellow/Black).

• Body: Cast on 6 sts in Yellow. Inc to 12. Knit 2 rows. Change to Black, knit 2 rows. Change to Yellow, knit 2 rows. Dec to 6. Draw through.
• Wings: Knit two tiny white loops.
• Detail: Tie a tiny mauve scarf around its neck.

The Floral Handbag

Using Yarn F (Taupe).

• Body: Cast on 16 stitches. Work in Garter Stitch for 3.5 inches.
• Assembly: Fold and sew sides. Attach a short I-cord handle.
• Decoration: Embroider two foxglove bells on the front.

Miniature Vase & Bouquet

• Vase: Using Yarn F (Taupe), cast on 10 sts. Inc to 20. Knit 10 rows. Dec to 10 (neck). Knit 2 rows. Cast off. Stuff firmly.
• Bouquet: Knit 4 green I-cords. Attach pink bell shapes to the top half of each stem.

Lace Handkerchief

Using Yarn C (Cream).

• Cast on 20 stitches. Knit a square.
• Border: Pick up stitches and work a picot bind off.
• Embroider a small pink flower in one corner.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

Assembly requires patience to ensure the bunny has the right character. Use a ladder stitch for all seams to hide the joins.

1. Body: Sew the leg and body seams. Stuff the legs and body firmly, ensuring there are no lumps. The neck must be very solid to support the head.
2. Head: Sew the back seam of the head. Stuff until the cheeks are plump and symmetrical. Ensure the face is smooth.
3. Face:
   • Eyes: Place safety eyes between rows 90 and 91, spaced 9 stitches apart.
   • Nose: Using dark brown floss, stitch a small “Y” shape for the nose and mouth. Satin stitch the top for a triangular shape.
4. Limbs: Attach arms to the sides of the body below the neck. Attach ears to the top of the head, angling them slightly forward.

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Care Notes

Handmade toys should be handled with care. Because this bunny is made from wool and features intricate detailing, follow these tips:

• Dusting: Regularly use a soft-bristled brush or a lint roller to remove surface dust.
• Spot Cleaning: Use a damp cloth with mild wool detergent to gently dab away stains. Do not rub.
• Washing: submerge gently in cool water with wool wash if a deep clean is needed. Never machine wash. Press out water with a towel and dry flat in the shade.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Are all loose ends woven in securely on the inside of the garments?
• Are the safety eyes secure and level?
• Is the bunny’s stuffing even and firm throughout?
• Does the head sit straight on the neck? (Add more stuffing if needed).
• Are the buttons on the cardigan and shoes securely attached?

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Preserve your bunny by keeping her out of direct sunlight, which can fade the mauve and cream dyes. Store in a breathable cotton bag if putting away for the season. A lavender sachet can keep her fresh and protected from moths. Check occasionally to ensure the stuffing hasn’t shifted or compressed over time.

Your Foxglove Porchdream Bunny is now complete. This project is a celebration of the quiet beauty of heritage gardens. Whether she sits on a mantle or is given as a gift to a garden lover, she will bring a sense of peace and botanical charm to her new home.