Dahlia Buttondown Reverie Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the enchanting world of the Dahlia Buttondown Reverie Bunny. This project captures the essence of a serene garden daydream, where the soft colors of morning blooms meet the timeless comfort of handmade toys. Our elegant rabbit is a vision of pastoral grace and creative artistry.

To ensure your finished bunny achieves the professional finish seen in our designs, we highly recommend you buy premium merino wool from a specialized yarn shop. Choosing high-quality knitting supplies like bamboo needles will make the process of purchasing yarn online for your collection truly rewarding.

 

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 Dahlia Buttondown Reverie Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The design philosophy centers on a “Cottagecore Dreamer” aesthetic, combining the neutral, grounded tones of oatmeal and cream with the vibrant, romantic pops of dusty rose and burgundy found in heritage dahlia flowers.

The construction utilizes a traditional flat-knitting method on two needles. This approach is highly effective for achieving the precise shaping required for the bunny’s rounded cheeks and slender limbs. Seaming these pieces together provides a sturdy skeletal structure, ensuring the doll maintains its elegant posture during display.

The wardrobe is the centerpiece of this design. The “Reverie Dress” features a creamy ivory base that serves as a canvas for a complex stranded colorwork floral band at the hem. The buttondown bodice adds a vintage tailored touch, while the matching cardigan provides a layer of texture.

Every component, from the floral bonnet to the tiny koala companion in its blue cardigan, is designed to create a rich, narrative-driven scene. The inclusion of miniature props like the tan satchel and lace handkerchief emphasizes her role as a gatherer of memories. Consistent tension is the most important factor.

Yarn and Essential Materials Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny fur): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Warm Sand, or Biscuit.
• Yarn B (Reverie Dress): 80g DK weight yarn in Ivory, Antique Cream, or Milk White.
• Yarn C (Cardigan & Hat): 80g DK weight yarn in Dusty Rose, Muted Mauve, or Antique Pink.
• Yarn D (Embroidery & Flowers): 30g DK weight yarn in Burgundy, Raspberry, and Soft Pink.
• Yarn E (Stems & Leaves): 20g DK weight yarn in Sage Green or Moss Green.
• Yarn F (Koala Companion): 40g DK weight yarn in Heather Grey, Charcoal, and White.
• Yarn G (Shoes & Bag): 40g DK weight yarn in Cinnamon or Dark Tan.
• Needles: US size 3 (3.25mm) straight knitting needles for the main components.
• Detail Needles: US size 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature koala and tiny accessories.
• Stuffing: High-quality polyester fiberfill for a firm and balanced feel.
• Eyes: Two 9mm black safety eyes for the bunny; two small 4mm beads for the koala.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, small wooden buttons, and black embroidery floss.

Gauge and Technical Tension Guidelines

For this specific doll, the target gauge should be 24 stitches and 30 rows over a 4-inch (10 cm) square in stockinette stitch. Maintaining a firm tension is vital when knitting stuffed toys. If the fabric is too loose, the white fiberfill will show through the stitches.

If you find that your knitting style is naturally loose, we strongly suggest moving down a needle size to a 3.0mm or 2.75mm. Conversely, if your fabric is stiff and difficult to manipulate, move up a size. Testing your gauge before beginning the legs will ensure clothing fits perfectly.

Consistency is your best friend during this project. When making the matching legs or the arms, try to knit them in the same sitting if possible. This helps maintain the same hand tension, ensuring that the limbs are identical in length and width for a symmetrical bunny.

Common Pattern Abbreviations

• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• Sts: Stitches
• Inc: Increase (KFB – Knit into the 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 (to create eyelets or lace).
• RS: Right Side (the public side of the fabric).
• WS: Wrong Side (the side that will be inside the toy).
• St st: Stockinette Stitch (Knit on RS rows, Purl on WS rows).

Part 1: The Oatmeal Bunny Body Foundation

The construction of the bunny begins with the legs. These are worked individually and then joined together 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.

Knitting the Legs (Make 2)

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

• Row 1 (WS): Purl across all stitches to set the foundation.
• Row 2 (RS): Increase in every stitch across the row. (24 sts). This forms the base of the foot.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches evenly, maintaining your firm hand tension.
• Row 4: *K1, Inc*, repeat from * to end of row. (36 sts). This rounds the foot.
• Rows 5-9: Work 5 rows 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 beginning to form.
• Row 13: Purl all stitches. Keep the tension tight to avoid 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. Measure frequently to ensure matching lengths.

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Once you reach row 42 on the first leg, break the yarn and place the 20 stitches on a holder. Complete the second leg in the exact same manner, but do not break the yarn. We will use the working yarn from the second leg to join the torso.

Joining the Torso and Neck

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 large gaps from forming.

• 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 area.
• 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.
• Row 80: Purl across. This row represents the neck line where the head begins.

Part 2: The Bunny Head and Expressive Features

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 that define our bunny’s personality.

• 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 the height for safety 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. This completes the core anatomy.

The Gentle 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 seaside accessories. Ensure your tension matches the legs perfectly to maintain a professional look throughout the assembly process for your finished toy doll character.

• 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 matching arms.
• Row 27: *K2, K2tog*, repeat across the row. (15 sts). Shaping the upper shoulder area.
• 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 hand area 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 posture for the finished doll.

The Long Floppy Ears (Make 2)

The ears are a large and iconic part of this design. They are worked flat and then folded 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 as seen in the image.

• Rows 1-42: Work in stockinette stitch. These are long, so keep your side edges very neat.
• Row 43: SSK, K10, K2tog. (12 sts). Starting the rounded tip.
• Row 44: Purl all stitches across.
• 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 once the body is stuffed.

Part 3: The Reverie Wardrobe – Buttondown Gown

The gown is the centerpiece of the character’s outfit. It is knitted in Yarn B (Ivory) and features a stunning row of large Dahlia flowers at the hem and a central chest piece. The design provides a clean, vintage aesthetic that allows the vibrant embroidery to shine beautifully.

The Skirt and Dahlia Colorwork

Using Yarn B, cast on 80 stitches. We begin at the hem to create the volume needed for the bell-shaped skirt. We will use stranded colorwork for the flower band, alternating between Yarn D (Burgundy and Pink) for the petals and Yarn E (Green) for the stems.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) to create a flat, sturdy hem that won’t roll.
• Rows 5-8: Work in stockinette stitch using Yarn B.
• Row 9 (Begin Stems): Join Yarn E (Green). *K3 B, K1 E, K4 B*, repeat across the row.
• Row 10: Purl row, following the colors established. Keep floats loose on the WS.
• Row 11 (Flower Base): Join Yarn D (Burgundy). *K2 B, K3 D, K3 B*, repeat across.
• Row 12: Purl row, making the flower clusters slightly wider to form the petal shape.
• Rows 13-14: Complete the flower spikes. Break contrast yarns.
• Rows 15-34: Work in stockinette stitch with Yarn B until the skirt reaches the waist.
• Waist Row: *K2tog* across the entire row. (40 sts). This creates the gathers at the high waist.

The Buttondown Bodice

Continuing from the waist, we transition to the upper part of the dress. This section is fitted and features a central “reverie” tie detail. We will work the front and back to allow for the arms to fit comfortably through the sleeveless design.

• Rows 35-38: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 39: K10, cast off 4 sts (armhole), K12, cast off 4 sts, K10.
• Row 40: P10, cast on 4 sts, P12, cast on 4 sts, P10. (40 sts).
• Rows 41-44: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 45: Knit across the row for a neat neckline edge.
• Row 46: Cast off all stitches loosely. Sew the back seam up to the waist.

Front Decoration: Embroider a large Dahlia flower on the center chest using Yarn D. Stitch a central burgundy star shape surrounded by soft pink petals. Add a long green stem and two leaves using Yarn E. This detail anchors the entire floral theme.

Part 4: The Reverie Wardrobe – Dusty Rose Cardigan

The cardigan is knitted in Yarn C (Dusty Rose). It is a button-front garment that provides a wonderful textural contrast to the ivory dress. We will add climbing vine embroidery to the front panels to mirror the dahlia theme of the bunny character.

Back and Front Panels

We work the body of the cardigan in one piece up to the armholes to minimize seams. Cast on 44 stitches with Yarn C. We use a garter stitch hem to prevent curling. The panels are then split to create the armhole openings and the neckline slope.

• Rows 1-4: Knit all rows (Garter Stitch).
• Rows 5-16: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 17: K10 (Front), cast off 2, K20 (Back), cast off 2, K10 (Front).
• Work Sections separately: Complete the back and front panels to the shoulder.
• Neckline: For the front panels, decrease 1 st at neck edge every RS row for 4 rows.
• Finishing: Sew the shoulder seams together. Add three small wooden buttons down the center front.

Cardigan Sleeves and Vine Embroidery

The sleeves are medium-length and feature a delicate ribbed cuff. Cast on 16 stitches with Yarn C. We will work the cuff first. This detail is crucial for the high-end look. We will then add embroidery to the front panels to mirror the garden theme.

• Cuff: Work 4 rows of K1, P1 ribbing.
• Sleeve Body: Switch to stockinette and work for 12 rows.
• Finishing: Cast off and sew the underarm seams. Sew the sleeves into the armholes.
• Embroidery: Use Yarn E to stitch climbing green vines on both front panels. Add tiny burgundy flower buds (French knots) at the tips of the vines for a 3D botanical effect.

Part 5: Accessories – Hat, Shoes, and Pouch

The accessories tie the entire look together. The hat is a classic bonnet-style with a floral applique, and the shoes feature a unique strap design. We also include a sturdy tan pouch for the bunny to carry her tiny treasures.

The Dusty Rose Bonnet

Using Yarn C, cast on 50 stitches. This hat is designed to sit comfortably on the bunny’s head, tied under the chin with a bow. We will use a garter stitch brim for stability and stockinette for the crown to allow the flower applique to stand out.

• Rows 1-6: Knit all rows to form the sturdy brim.
• Rows 7-18: Work in stockinette stitch to form the side of the hat.
• Row 19: *K3, K2tog*, repeat to end of row. (40 sts).
• Row 20: Purl all stitches across the entire row.
• Row 21: *K2, K2tog*, repeat to end. (30 sts).
• Row 23: *K1, K2tog*, repeat to end. (20 sts).
• Row 24: K2tog across. Draw through.

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Bonnet Ties & Flowers: Knit two 6-inch I-cords and sew them to the corners of the brim. Knit three tiny 3D dahlia flowers using Yarn D and sew them to the top side of the hat. This adds a sophisticated artisan touch to the character’s headwear.

Mary Jane Shoes with Leaf Detail

The shoes are knitted in Yarn G (Tan). They feature a sturdy sole and a strap that crosses over the foot. We will add a small decorative leaf on the toe of each shoe to tie the botanical scheme together beautifully and professionally.

• Sole: Using Yarn G, cast on 10 sts. Knit 12 rows.
• Upper: Pick up 32 sts around the edge of the sole.
• Rows 1-4: Work in St st.
• Row 5: Knit 10, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 10. (26 sts).
• Strap: Cast on 12 sts separately. Knit 2 rows. Cast off.
• Finishing: Sew the strap to the shoe. Embroider a small green leaf (lazy-daisy stitch) on each toe cap using Yarn E.

The Tan Satchel and Handkerchief

Our bunny is a researcher and curator. We will create a tan satchel using Yarn G and include her lace handkerchief. These props give the character a sense of history and provide a wonderful tactile experience for whoever holds the toy character.

• Bag Body: Cast on 16 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 5 inches. Fold in half and sew side seams. Add a long I-cord strap.
• Button: Sew a small button to the front flap for a realistic closure.
• Handkerchief: Using Yarn B (Ivory), cast on 20 stitches. Knit a square in stockinette stitch.
• Border: Crochet or knit a picot border around the edge for a delicate lace finish.

Part 6: The Koala Companion – A Studio Assistant

Every chic bunny needs a loyal companion. Our tiny koala is knitted in Yarn F (Heather Grey) with charcoal and white accents. He wears his own simplified version of the bunny’s blue cardigan. This detail elevates the entire set into a complete storytelling scene.

Koala Body and Head

Using Yarn F (Grey), cast on 8 stitches. We will work the body and head as one piece, using increases to shape the torso and head. The koala’s signature large ears will be knitted separately and sewn on during the finishing stage.

• Body: Increase to 16 sts. Work 10 rows in Grey. Decrease back to 8 sts.
• Head: Increase to 14 sts. Work 6 rows. Change to White for the muzzle area.
• Ears (Make 2): Cast on 8 stitches. Knit 4 rows in Garter stitch using Charcoal. Round the corners and sew to the sides of the head.
• Finishing: Draw yarn through and stuff firmly. Sew on small beads for eyes.

Koala Clothes and Details

• Blue Cardigan: Using bright blue yarn, knit a tiny rectangle (12 sts x 6 rows). Wrap around the koala’s torso and secure at the front center.
• Tan Pants: Knit a tan rectangle (10 sts x 5 rows). Sew around the legs.
• Hat: Cast on 10 sts in Green. Knit 2 rows. Draw through. Sew to the top of the koala’s head at a jaunty angle. This adds immense charm.
• Nose: Use charcoal yarn to embroider a large, oval nose in the center of the face.

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 doll is the difference between a project and an heirloom.

1. Body Seaming: Use a ladder stitch to sew the legs and torso. Stuff the legs firmly to allow for a sturdy standing pose. The tummy should be rounded and soft. Ensure the neck is reinforced with extra stuffing to support the weight of the head.
2. Head Seaming: Sew the back of the head. Before closing, place the safety eyes between rows 90 and 91, approximately 9 stitches apart. Ensure they are level. Stuff the head firmly, shaping the cheeks as you go for a sweet look.
3. Face Detailing:
   • Embroider the nose using dark brown floss. Create a small “Y” shape for the mouth.
   • (Optional) Add a touch of pink cosmetic blush to the cheeks for a healthy, garden-fresh glow.
4. Limbs and Ears: Sew the arms just below the neck line. Fold the base of the ears and sew them to the top of the head so they flop naturally to the sides, framing the floral bonnet.
5. Dressing: Put on the Reverie dress first. Secure the cardigan over the top. Place the hat on the head. Secure the Mary Janes. Arrange the koala, satchel, and bouquet in a pleasing scene.

Care Notes for Your Heirloom Bunny

Your Dahlia Buttondown Reverie Bunny is a delicate piece of artisan craft. Because of the intricate floral embroidery and the small accessory pieces, it is not intended for rough play. It is best suited as a decorative item for a nursery, studio, or collector’s shelf.

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 buttons or bag) are double-stitched to the bunny to prevent them from becoming a choking hazard. Safety is always the priority.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Are the safety eyes locked securely in place and level with each other?
• Is the neck stuffed firmly enough to keep the head upright and straight?
• Are all loose yarn ends woven in and hidden deep within the bunny stuffing?
• Does the bunny stand or sit evenly without tipping over to one side?
• Is the companion koala’s hat securely attached to its heather grey head?
• Are the embroidered Dahlia flowers on the dress hem symmetrical and centered?

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Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

Handmade knitted toys should never be placed in a washing machine. The high agitation will cause the natural 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 and blur the stitch definition. Allow the bunny to air dry completely away from direct sunlight.

To preserve the vibrant rose and burgundy colors of the flowers, 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.

Congratulations on completing your Dahlia Buttondown Reverie Bunny. This project is a celebration of the quiet joy found in nature and the timeless art of hand-knitting. Whether she sits on your mantle or becomes a treasured gift, she is sure to bring a sense of curated peace to her home.