Cornflower Parlor-Gown Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the elegant and timeless world of the Cornflower Parlor-Gown Bunny. This project captures the essence of a serene afternoon in a historic parlor, where the sun filters through lace curtains and the scent of blue cornflowers lingers. Our rabbit is a vision of vintage grace and heirloom beauty.

To create this masterpiece, you should buy luxury knitting wool from a specialized yarn store to ensure the softest texture. Selecting the right merino wool blend will provide the bunny with a durable, high-quality finish seen in professional designs. This character is a perfect gift for knitters looking to purchase unique patterns.

 

Please note: I strive for accuracy in every pattern, but occasional errors can happen. Thank you for understanding and for enjoying my designs.

Project Conceptualization and Visual Analysis

The Cornflower Parlor-Gown Bunny is an intricate design that stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The aesthetic is deeply rooted in Victorian-era parlor fashion, blending a creamy off-white gown with striking cornflower blue accents. The design features a sophisticated interplay of textures, from smooth skin to delicate lace panels.

The bunny herself is knitted in a warm oatmeal shade, providing a natural and soft appearance. Her gown is the centerpiece, featuring a central lace column and a geometric blue border. The accompanying lemur friend adds a touch of whimsical storytelling, while the blue beret and floral bouquet complete the garden-inspired narrative.

This project is ideal for those who enjoy the slow, meditative process of detailed assembly. Every component, from the tiny fan to the lemur’s striped tail, is crafted to ensure a professional and balanced result. Consistent tension is the most important factor in achieving the high-end look presented in the reference.

Yarn and Supply Requirements

• Yarn A (Bunny Body): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Sand, or Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Parlor Gown): 100g DK weight yarn in Cream, Ivory, or Off-White.
• Yarn C (Cardigan & Hat): 80g DK weight yarn in Cornflower Blue or Cobalt.
• Yarn D (Border & Details): 30g DK weight yarn in a medium Denim or Slate Blue.
• Yarn E (Shoes & Handkerchief): 30g DK weight yarn in Pure White.
• Yarn F (Lemur Body): 40g DK weight yarn in Heather Grey and Charcoal.
• Yarn G (Lemur Clothes): Scraps of Tan and Brown.
• Needles: US size 3 (3.25mm) straight knitting needles for the main components.
• Needles (Miniature): US size 2 (2.75mm) for the companion and accessories.
• Stuffing: High-loft polyester fiberfill for a firm and shapely finish.
• Eyes: Two 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny; two 4mm beads for the lemur.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, embroidery floss in various blues and greens.

Gauge and Technical Tension

The target gauge for this design is 24 stitches and 30 rows over a 4-inch (10 cm) square in stockinette stitch. Maintaining a firm tension is vital when knitting toys so that the white stuffing does not show through the fabric. Loose knitting will compromise the structure.

If you find that your knitting style is naturally loose, we suggest using a 2.75mm needle for the body. Conversely, if your fabric is too stiff, move up to a 3.5mm size. Consistency is your best friend during this project to ensure all limbs are identical.

When making matching limbs, try to knit them in the same session. This helps maintain the same hand tension, ensuring the arms and legs are the exact same length. A symmetrical bunny is a professional-looking bunny, capable of sitting straight and looking balanced on any shelf.

Common Abbreviations

• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• Sts: Stitches
• Inc: Increase (KFB – Knit into front and then the back of the same stitch).
• Dec: Decrease (K2tog – Knit 2 stitches together).
• SSK: Slip, Slip, Knit (a left-leaning decrease for shaping).
• YO: Yarn Over (used for the lace gown panels).
• RS: Right Side (the public side of the fabric).
• WS: Wrong Side (the inside of the toy).
• St st: Stockinette Stitch (Knit on RS rows, Purl on WS rows).

Part 1: The Bunny Body Construction

We begin the construction by knitting the legs individually. These will later be joined at the center to form the lower torso. This bottom-up method provides the necessary stability for the weight of the bunny and ensures a smooth, continuous fabric from the hips upward.

Knitting the Legs (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal) and US 3 needles, cast on 12 stitches. Leave a long tail of yarn at the start for sewing the foot pads during the assembly phase. We will use the mattress stitch for all seams to keep the finish nearly invisible and professional.

• Row 1 (WS): Purl all stitches across the row to set the foundation.
• Row 2 (RS): Increase in every stitch across the row. (24 sts). This forms the foot base.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches evenly, maintaining a firm hand tension throughout.
• Row 4: *K1, Inc*, repeat from * to end of row. (36 sts). This rounds the foot.
• Rows 5-9: Work in stockinette stitch, starting with a Purl row on the WS.
• Row 10 (Shape Instep): K12, (K2tog) 6 times, K12. (30 sts). This forms the front curve.
• Row 11: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 12: K9, (K2tog) 6 times, K9. (24 sts). The ankle is now forming.
• Row 13: Purl all stitches. Keep the tension tight to avoid any gaps at the decreases.
• Row 14: K8, (K2tog) 4 times, K8. (20 sts). This defines the leg shape clearly.
• Rows 15-42: Work straight in stockinette stitch. Ensure both legs are the exact same length.

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Once Row 42 is completed on the first leg, break the yarn and place the 20 stitches on a holder. Complete the second leg in the same manner, but do not break the yarn. We will use this working yarn to join the two pieces together.

Joining the Torso

With the RS of the second leg facing you, cast on 2 stitches for the crotch area, then knit across the 20 stitches of the first leg from the stitch holder. You should now have 42 stitches on your needle. Handle the join carefully to prevent gaps.

• Row 44 (WS): Purl all stitches, including the two new cast-on stitches at the center.
• Row 45: K10, Inc, K20, Inc, K10. (44 sts). This adds volume to the bunny’s hips.
• Row 46: Purl all stitches evenly across the entire row.
• Row 47: K11, Inc, K20, Inc, K11. (46 sts). This completes the basic hip shaping.
• Rows 48-68: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This long section forms the bunny’s tummy.
• Row 69: *K8, K2tog*, repeat to last 6 sts, K6. (42 sts). Starting the chest taper.
• Row 70: Purl all stitches. Maintain your focus on the consistent stitch count.
• Row 71: *K5, K2tog*, repeat to end of row. (36 sts). The chest is narrowing.
• Rows 72-76: Work straight in stockinette stitch to provide height to the upper torso.
• Row 77: *K4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts). Almost at the neck.
• Row 78: Purl all stitches.
• Row 79: *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts). Final torso shaping.
• Row 80: Purl across. This row represents the neck line where the head begins.

Part 2: The Bunny Head and Face

The head is worked as a direct continuation of the neck. It is vital to stuff the neck column extremely firmly during assembly so that the head remains upright. The head is shaped with rapid increases to create the chubby, endearing cheeks of the bunny.

• Row 81 (RS): *K1, Inc*, repeat to the end of the row. (36 sts).
• Row 82: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 83: *K2, Inc*, repeat to the end of the row. (48 sts).
• Row 84: Purl all stitches. The fabric is expanding for the face.
• Row 85: *K7, Inc*, repeat to end. (54 sts). The cheeks are now fully established.
• Rows 86-106: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This provides height for the eye placement.
• Row 107: *K7, K2tog*, repeat to end. (48 sts). Starting the top of the head.
• Row 108: Purl all stitches.
• Row 109: *K6, K2tog*, repeat to end. (42 sts).
• Row 110: Purl all stitches.
• Row 111: *K5, K2tog*, repeat to end. (36 sts).
• Row 112: Purl all stitches.
• Row 113: *K4, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts).
• Row 114: Purl all stitches.
• Row 115: *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (24 sts).
• Row 116: Purl all stitches.
• Row 117: *K1, K2tog*, repeat to end. (16 sts).
• Row 118: K2tog across the entire row. (8 sts).

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail for finishing. Use a tapestry needle to thread the tail through the remaining 8 stitches and pull tight to close the crown of the head. Secure the end firmly and hide the tail inside the head structure.

The Expressive Arms (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Oatmeal), cast on 10 stitches. The arms are designed to be soft and flexible so they can hold the flower bouquet or the miniature fan. Ensure your tension matches the legs perfectly to maintain a professional look throughout the assembly process.

• Row 1: Purl all stitches across the row.
• Row 2: Increase in every stitch across the row. (20 sts).
• Rows 3-26: Work in stockinette stitch. Measure frequently to ensure both arms are identical.
• Row 27: *K2, K2tog*, repeat across the row. (15 sts). Shaping the upper shoulder.
• Row 28: Purl across all stitches.
• Row 29: K2tog across the row to the last stitch, Knit 1. (8 sts).

Fasten off and leave a long tail. Sew the side seam and stuff the lower half of the arm firmly. Leave the upper shoulder area lightly stuffed to allow the arm to hang naturally by the bunny’s side, creating a relaxed and inviting parlor posture.

The Long Floppy Ears (Make 2)

The ears are a large and iconic part of this design. They are worked flat and then folded slightly at the base during attachment. Using Yarn A, cast on 14 stitches. These should be knitted with a relaxed but consistent tension to allow natural drape.

• Rows 1-42: Work in stockinette stitch. These are long, so keep your edges neat.
• Row 43: SSK, K10, K2tog. (12 sts). Starting the rounded tip.
• Row 44: Purl all stitches.
• Row 45: SSK, K8, K2tog. (10 sts).
• Row 46: Purl all stitches.
• Row 47: SSK, K6, K2tog. (8 sts).
• Row 48: Purl all stitches.
• Row 49: SSK, K4, K2tog. (6 sts).
• Row 50: Purl all stitches.
• Row 51: SSK, K2, K2tog. (4 sts).
• Row 52: K2tog twice. (2 sts).

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Fasten off and draw the yarn through the final stitches. Sew the long edges together using a ladder stitch. Do not stuff the ears; they need to remain soft and flat to look authentic. Set these aside for the final assembly phase later.

Part 3: The Cream Parlor Gown

The parlor gown is the centerpiece of the character’s wardrobe. It is knitted in Yarn B (Cream) and features a stunning central lace panel and a decorative blue border. The skirt is wide and bell-shaped, while the bodice is more fitted to create an elegant silhouette.

The Skirt and Blue Border

Using Yarn B, cast on 80 stitches. We start at the hem to incorporate the decorative border immediately. We will use a slip-stitch colorwork technique or simple stranded knitting for the blue band, using Yarn D (Slate Blue) to create the geometric zigzag pattern.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) in Yarn B to create a flat hem.
• Rows 5-8: Switch to stockinette stitch using Yarn B.
• Blue Border (Row 9): Join Yarn D. *K1 B, K1 D*, repeat across the row.
• Row 10: *P1 D, P1 B*, repeat across, following the color pattern.
• Row 11: Using Yarn D only, Knit across.
• Row 12: Using Yarn D only, Purl across.
• Rows 13-14: Repeat Rows 9-10. Break Yarn D.
• Rows 15-20: Work in stockinette stitch using Yarn B.

The Central Lace Column

As we continue the skirt, we will introduce the central lace panel. This panel is worked over the center 10 stitches of the gown. The lace resembles a trailing leaf or fern pattern, which adds a sophisticated, botanical element to the parlor theme.

• Row 21 (RS): K35, K2, YO, SSK, K2, YO, SSK, K2, K35. (Total 80 sts).
• Row 22 (WS): Purl all stitches across the entire row.
• Row 23: K35, K1, K2tog, YO, K2, YO, SSK, K1, K35.
• Row 24: Purl all stitches.
• Rows 25-44: Continue repeating the lace logic over the center 10 stitches while working the side sections in stockinette. This creates the vertical panel seen in the photo.
• Row 45: *K2tog* across the entire row to gather the waist. (40 sts).

Gown Bodice and Sleeves

Once the waist is gathered, we transition to the fitted bodice. The bodice remains in simple stockinette to highlight the massive lace collar that will be added during the finishing stage. We will leave gaps for the arms to ensure a perfect fit over the bunny body.

• Rows 46-50: Work in stockinette stitch with Yarn B.
• Row 51: K8, cast off 4 sts (armhole), K16, cast off 4 sts, K8.
• Row 52: P8, cast on 4 sts, P16, cast on 4 sts, P8. (40 sts).
• Rows 53-58: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 59: Knit across.
• Row 60: Cast off loosely. Sew the back seam up to the waist.

The Lace Collar: Using Yarn B or a separate lace-weight white thread, knit a large, flat rectangle using a simple eyelet pattern (*YO, K2tog*). Once finished, sew this rectangle around the neckline, gathering it at the back to create the ruffled Victorian collar.

Part 4: The Cornflower Blue Cardigan

The cardigan is a cropped, open-front garment knitted in Yarn C (Cornflower Blue). It features short sleeves and a neat, ribbed border. This layer provides a vibrant pop of color that complements the blue border on the gown and the floral beret.

Back and Front Panels

We will work the cardigan in one piece up to the armholes to minimize the number of seams and create a clean, modern finish. Cast on 44 stitches with Yarn C. We use a garter stitch hem to prevent the bottom edge from rolling up over the gown.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-16: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 17 (Split for Fronts/Back): K10 (Front), cast off 2, K20 (Back), cast off 2, K10 (Front).
• Work sections separately:
  • Back: Work 12 rows straight on the 20 stitches. Cast off.
  • Fronts: Work 12 rows on each 10-stitch section, decreasing 1 stitch at the neck edge on every RS row to create the rounded slope.
• Finishing: Sew the shoulder seams. The cardigan is meant to be worn open, so no buttons are required, providing a relaxed look for our bunny.

Cardigan Sleeves (Make 2)

The sleeves of the cardigan are short, ending just above the bunny’s elbow. They are knitted flat and then sewn into the armhole gaps created during the body construction. Cast on 16 stitches using Yarn C. Ensure your tension is consistent with the body.

• Rows 1-2: Knit all rows for the cuff.
• Rows 3-8: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 9: *K1, Inc*, repeat across the row. (24 sts). This creates a slight puff.
• Row 10: Purl all stitches across.
• Row 11: Cast off all stitches. Sew the sleeves into the armholes and close the underarm seams.

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Part 5: The Blue Floral beret

The hat is a classic beret-style headpiece, knitted in Yarn C (Cornflower Blue). It is designed to sit at a jaunty angle on the bunny’s head, covering one ear while revealing the other. It is adorned with a large, multi-layered knitted flower and green leaves.

• Brim: Cast on 50 stitches using Yarn C. Knit 4 rows in Garter Stitch to create a firm, non-rolling edge.
• Body of Beret: Switch to stockinette stitch.
  • Row 5: *K1, Inc*, repeat to end. (75 sts). This provides the volume.
  • Rows 6-16: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Crown Shaping:
  • Row 17: *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end.
  • Row 19: *K2, K2tog*, repeat to end.
  • Row 21: *K1, K2tog*, repeat to end.
  • Row 22: K2tog across. Draw yarn through and sew back seam.

The 3D Flower: Using Yarn C, cast on 40 stitches. Knit 2 rows. *K2tog* across the next row. Fasten off and pull the yarn through. Roll the strip into a tight rosette and sew it to the side of the hat. Add two small green leaves using Yarn D.

Part 6: Companion Lemur Friend

The companion is a distinctive ring-tailed lemur, knitted in Yarn F (Grey and Charcoal). This companion adds a sophisticated and unusual touch to the parlor scene. He wears a tiny tan vest and brown shorts to match the bunny’s accessories.

Lemur Body and Striped Tail

Using Yarn F (Heather Grey) and US 2 needles, cast on 8 stitches. We will build the lemur from the bottom up, incorporating the distinctive grey and white facial features through embroidery later. The tail is the most iconic feature of this companion.

• Body: Increase the 8 stitches to 16. Knit 12 rows. Decrease back to 8 and draw through. Stuff firmly into a small pear shape.
• Tail: Cast on 6 stitches using Charcoal yarn.
  • Knit 2 rows in Charcoal.
  • Knit 2 rows in White.
  • Repeat these stripes until the tail is 4 inches long. Cast off.
• Assembly: Sew the tail to the base of the lemur body. Embroider large black circles around the eyes and add a small white muzzle to create the lemur face.

Lemur Clothing

The lemur wears a tan vest and brown shorts. These are miniature garments that require careful stitch control. Using Yarn G (Tan and Brown), we will create these simple rectangular wraps that sew onto the companion’s body for a dressed-up look.

• Vest: Knit a tiny tan rectangle (10 sts x 6 rows). Wrap around the lemur’s torso and sew in place at the front center.
• Shorts: Knit a brown rectangle (12 sts x 5 rows). Sew around the waist.
• Hat: Cast on 10 stitches in Tan. Knit 2 rows. Draw through. Sew to the top of the lemur’s head at a jaunty angle.

Part 7: Parlor Accessories

To complete the parlor scene, we will create the handheld blue bouquet, the embroidered handbag, the striped fan, and the lace handkerchief. These items provide the narrative depth that transforms the bunny into a storyteller.

Handheld Blue Bouquet

Using Yarn C (Blue) and Yarn D (Slate Blue). We will create three individual flower stems and tie them together with a scrap of twine to be held in the bunny’s arm. This adds a beautiful botanical touch to the overall composition.

• Stems: Knit a 4-inch I-cord on 3 stitches using Green yarn. Make 3 stems.
• Flowers: Using Yarn C, cast on 15 stitches. Knit 2 rows. *K2tog* across the next row. Draw the yarn through and pull tight into a circular rosette.
• Center: Add a small white French knot to the center of each flower. Sew a flower to the top of each stem and bunch them together.

The Embroidered Handbag

The handbag is knitted in Yarn A (Oatmeal) to match the bunny’s skin. It features a simple clasp and blue floral embroidery on the front. This accessory represents the bunny’s readiness for an afternoon stroll or a social visit.

• Body: Cast on 14 stitches. Knit 18 rows in Garter Stitch. Fold in half and sew the side seams.
• Flap: Knit across the back edge for 4 rows. Decrease at the corners to round the flap. Sew a small bead for a clasp.
• Embroidery: Use blue floss to stitch a small cornflower on the front. Add a long I-cord handle and hang it from the bunny’s arm.

The Parlor Fan and Handkerchief

The fan is a unique accessory, featuring blue and white stripes. The handkerchief is a simple white square with a lace border. These items are essential for a bunny who spends her time in the sophisticated environment of a Victorian parlor.

• The Fan: Cast on 15 stitches. Knit 10 rows in a stripe pattern (2 rows white, 2 rows blue). Cast off. Fold the rectangle into an accordion shape and sew the base together.
• The Handkerchief: Using Yarn E (White), cast on 20 stitches. Knit a square in stockinette stitch.
  • Border: Pick up stitches all around the edge.
  • Lace Row: *YO, K2tog* all around. Cast off loosely to create the scalloped eyelet edge.

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Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

The assembly is the most important step in giving your character its personality. Take your time to align the features symmetrically and ensure all seaming is tight and neat. A well-assembled toy is a professional toy.

1. Body Seaming: Use a ladder stitch to sew the legs and torso. Stuff the legs firmly to allow for a standing pose. The tummy should be rounded and soft. Ensure the neck is reinforced with extra stuffing to support the head.
2. Neck Reinforcement: It is crucial to add extra stuffing to the neck. You can also insert a small rolled piece of stiff felt inside the neck to support the weight of the head.
3. Face Placement:
   • Insert the 9mm safety eyes between rows 90 and 91, approximately 9 stitches apart.
   • Embroider the nose using Yarn D (Slate Blue) or a dark brown floss. Create a small “V” shape and a vertical line for the classic bunny mouth.
   • Use a pink colored pencil or real blush to add a soft glow to the cheeks.
4. Limbs and Ears: Sew the arms just below the neck. Fold the base of the ears and sew them to the top of the head. Position them so they flop naturally to the sides, framing the beret.
5. Dressing: Put on the gown first, securing the back seam. Layer the cardigan over the top. Place the beret on the head, tilted to the side. Arrange the accessories and lemur friend in the scene.

Care Notes

Your Cornflower Parlor-Gown Bunny is a delicate piece of art. Because of the intricate lace and colorwork, it is not recommended for rough play. It is best suited for display or gentle handling. If the bunny is intended for a child, ensure all safety eyes are locked.

Over time, high-quality wool can develop a slight fuzz or “pilling.” This is a natural characteristic of the fiber. You can gently remove any pilling using a small pair of embroidery scissors to keep the bunny looking fresh and new. Always keep the doll in a dry environment.

If the bunny is meant for a young child, please ensure all safety eyes are locked securely and that the tiny accessories (like the fan or bouquet) are double-stitched to the bunny or the handbag to prevent them from becoming a choking hazard. Safety is the priority.

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Handmade knitted toys should never be placed in a washing machine. The agitation will cause the wool to felt and the intricate embroidery to unravel or distort. If the bunny becomes dusty, a gentle once-over with a soft-bristled brush or a lint roller is usually sufficient.

If a deeper clean is required for a specific stain, use a damp cloth with a very small amount of mild wool detergent. Dab the area gently; do not rub, as rubbing will pilling the yarn. Allow the bunny to air dry completely away from direct sunlight or high-heat sources like radiators.

To preserve the vibrant blue and white colors of the cornflowers, avoid displaying the bunny in a window with high UV exposure, as sunlight can fade the dyes over time. For long-term storage, place the bunny in a breathable cotton bag with a cedar block to keep moths away.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Are the safety eyes locked securely in place and level?
• Is the neck stuffed firmly enough to keep the head upright?
• Are all loose yarn ends woven in and hidden deep within the stuffing?
• Does the bunny sit evenly without tipping over to one side?
• Is the lemur companion’s tail securely attached to its body?
• Are the embroidered flowers on the gown collar symmetrical?

Congratulations on completing your Cornflower Parlor-Gown Bunny. This project is a celebration of the quiet beauty found in heritage gardens and the timeless art of hand-knitting. Whether she sits on your mantle or becomes a treasured gift, she brings a sense of Victorian peace.