Clematis Paperbag Posy Bunny – Knitting

Welcome to the flourishing and vibrant world of the Clematis Paperbag Posy Bunny. This project captures the spirit of a dedicated gardener tending to her prize-winning vines in the height of midsummer. Our diligent rabbit character is a horticulturist at heart, dressed in an ensemble that blends the practicality required for pruning with the whimsical charm of a garden party.

To create this heirloom-quality piece, we recommend visiting a specialized yarn shop to select premium fibers. You will want to buy merino wool yarn in a textured oatmeal or biscuit shade for the bunny’s skin to ensure a soft, huggable finish. For the clothing, consider purchasing cotton yarn which offers excellent stitch definition for the intricate paperbag waist of the skirt and the delicate floral embroidery. Before you begin, check your knitting supplies for a set of high-quality bamboo knitting needles and plenty of fiberfill. If you are ready to grow your knitting skills, 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 Clematis Paperbag Posy Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The construction is designed to be sturdy, with the body and head knitted in pieces and seamed. This method allows for precise stuffing and shaping, ensuring the doll maintains its posture while tending to her garden.

The wardrobe is a study in structural knitting and floral embellishment. The “paperbag” skirt utilizes a drawstring technique to create a ruffled, gathered waistline that sits high on the bunny’s torso. The cardigan features a Sage Green hue, reminiscent of garden foliage, while the accessories—a watering can, shears, and a bear companion—complete the narrative.

Materials and Tools Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Skin): 100g DK weight yarn in Oatmeal, Sand, or Light Beige.
• Yarn B (Skirt & Hat Base): 80g DK weight yarn in Cream, Ivory, or Off-White.
• Yarn C (Cardigan): 60g DK weight yarn in Sage Green or Muted Olive.
• Yarn D (Clematis Flowers): 30g DK weight yarn in Purple, Lilac, and Magenta.
• Yarn E (Stems & Leaves): 20g DK weight yarn in Forest Green.
• Yarn F (Bear Companion): 40g DK weight yarn in Chocolate Brown.
• Yarn G (Accessories/Shoes): 30g DK weight yarn in Tan/Beige and Grey (for tools).
• 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), embroidery floss, stitch holders, cardstock (for hat brim).

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. 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 Cream Paperbag Skirt

This skirt uses a “paperbag” construction method. This means the fabric extends above the cinched waistline, creating a ruffled top edge. It is knitted in Yarn B (Cream).

Cast on 90 stitches. This large number creates the necessary volume for the gathering.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for the hem.
• Rows 5-8: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 9 (Embroidery Guide): Knit across. This area will be the canvas for the floral border.
• Rows 10-34: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 35 (Eyelet Row for Waist Cord): *Knit 2, YO, K2tog*, repeat across. This creates the holes for the belt.
• Rows 36-40: Work in stockinette stitch. This is the “paperbag” ruffle that will sit above the belt.
• Row 41: Cast off loosely.

Clematis Embroidery

Before assembling the skirt, we will embroider the clematis vines.

1. Vines: Using Yarn E (Forest Green), stitch undulating vines horizontally across the skirt, about 1 inch up from the hem. Use a stem stitch.
2. Leaves: Add small teardrop-shaped leaves along the vine using satin stitch.
3. Flowers: Using Yarn D (Purple/Lilac), create star-shaped flowers with 5 or 6 pointed petals. Use satin stitch to fill them in. Add a small yellow French knot in the center of each flower.

The Belt: Knit a long I-cord or crochet a chain in Yarn G (Tan). Thread this through the eyelets on Row 35. When tightened, the fabric above (Rows 36-40) will ruffle beautifully.

Part 3: The Sage Garden Cardigan

The cardigan is knitted in Yarn C (Sage Green). It features a cropped length and floral embroidery on the chest.

Back Panel

Cast on 36 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch).
• Rows 5-18: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 19 (Armhole): Cast off 3 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows. (30 sts).
• Rows 21-32: Work straight.
• Row 33: Cast off all stitches.

Front Panels (Make 2)

Cast on 18 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-18: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 19: Cast off 3 stitches at the armhole edge.
• Rows 21-28: Work straight.
• Row 29 (Neck): Decrease 1 stitch at the neck edge on every RS row until 10 stitches remain.
• Row 33: Cast off remaining shoulder stitches.

Sleeves (Make 2)

Cast on 20 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. (24 sts).
• Row 21: Cast off.

Finishing: Sew the cardigan pieces together. Embroider climbing clematis vines up the front panels using the same technique as the skirt.

Part 4: The Newsboy Cap

This hat has a structured brim and a floppy crown.

• Crown: Cast on 10 stitches using Yarn B (Cream). Increase to 20. Work in stockinette, increasing 10 stitches evenly every 4th row until you have 60 stitches.
• Side Band: Work 6 rows straight.
• Brim Base: Cast on 20 stitches separately. Work 6 rows in Garter Stitch, decreasing 1 stitch at each end of every row to create a crescent shape.
• Assembly: Sew the brim to the front of the hat band. Insert a piece of cardstock inside the brim to keep it stiff.
• Flower: Knit a large purple flower (cast on 40, knit 2 rows, k2tog across, draw through) and sew it to the side of the cap.

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Part 5: Tan Mary Jane Shoes

Using Yarn G (Tan), cast on 12 stitches.

• Sole: Knit 10 rows in Garter Stitch.
• Upper: Pick up 30 stitches around 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 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 a strand of tan yarn to create a strap across the instep. Embroider a tiny leaf on the toe.

Part 6: Garden Tools and Companion

The Watering Can

Using Grey yarn.

• Body: Cast on 15 stitches. Knit 20 rows. Sew into a cylinder. Stuff with a cardboard circle at the bottom for stability.
• Spout: Knit a small I-cord, increasing stitches at the end to flare it out. Sew to the body.
• Handle: Knit a long I-cord and attach in an arch shape from top to back.

Garden Shears

Using Brown (handles) and Grey (blades).

• Knit two thin strips in Brown.
• Knit two shorter pointed strips in Grey.
• Sew them together at a pivot point using a silver bead or French knot to resemble shears.

The Posy Bouquet

• Stems: Knit 3 Green I-cords.
• Flowers: Use Purple yarn to make clusters of bobbles.
• Tie the bouquet with a piece of twine.

The Bear Companion

Using Yarn F (Brown), US 2 needles.

• Body: Cast on 10 stitches. Increase to 20. Knit 10 rows. Decrease to 10. Draw through. Stuff firmly.
• Head: Pick up 10 stitches. Increase to 15. Knit 5 rows. Decrease. Sew on ears.
• Jacket: Knit a tiny beige rectangle with collar flaps. Sew onto the bear.
• Trousers: Knit tiny grey tubes for legs.

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 pink 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 bear’s jacket) securely stitched if the toy is intended for a child?

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Your Clematis Paperbag Posy Bunny is now complete. This project is a celebration of the love for gardening, the beauty of floral design, and the art of knitting. Whether she sits in a sunroom or is given as a gift to a green-thumbed friend, she is sure to bring a sense of floral joy to her new home.