Hellebore Velvet Whisper Bunny – Crochet

The Hellebore Velvet Whisper Bunny is a sophisticated design that combines the luxurious feel of velvet yarn with the delicate elegance of vintage-inspired lace. If you are looking to purchase high-quality amigurumi supplies or want to buy complete crochet kits, this project is the perfect choice for experienced crafters.

Sourcing premium velvet yarn and high-grade amigurumi tools is essential to achieve the plush texture and intricate detailing seen in this garden-inspired scene. Whether you are searching for where to get the best crochet materials or looking for unique amigurumi accessories, this design offers a truly rewarding creative experience.

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

Project Materials and Preparation

To create this stunning bunny and her miniature companions, you must gather specific materials that provide the right texture and structural integrity. The contrast between the fuzzy velvet body and the crisp cotton outfit is what gives this piece its unique “Whisper” aesthetic and high-end feel.

Using the correct yarn weights is vital for maintaining the proportions shown in the image. A thicker chenille or velvet yarn is used for the bunny’s body to make it soft and huggable, while a finer cotton yarn allows the dress and capelet to look delicate and detailed.

• Main Body Yarn: One skein of super bulky weight velvet or chenille yarn in a soft taupe, light grey, or beige tone.
• Outfit Yarn: Two skeins of sport weight or DK weight cotton yarn in a classic cream or off-white color.
• Accent Yarn: Small amounts of cotton yarn in sage green and dusty rose for the hellebore floral decorations.
• Sheep Companion Yarn: Small amount of textured bouclé or white velvet yarn and light pink cotton yarn for the limbs.
• Crochet Hooks: A 4.5mm hook for the velvet yarn and a 2.5mm hook for the cotton outfit and accessories.
• Safety Eyes: 12mm black safety eyes for the main bunny and 6mm eyes for the miniature sheep.
• Embroidery Thread: Dark brown or black thread for the facial features, specifically the nose and mouth.
• Decorative Elements: Small white pearls of varying sizes for the capelet, shoes, and dress centers.
• Additional Supplies: High-quality polyester fiberfill, stitch markers, sharp scissors, and a long yarn needle for assembly.
• Accessory Details: A small silver button for the purse and a tiny matchbox for the display.

Stitch Abbreviations (US Terms)

Before beginning your work, please review the following abbreviations. This pattern is written using standard American terminology. Maintaining a consistent tension is important, especially when switching between the stretchy velvet yarn and the more rigid cotton yarn used for the garments.

• MR: Magic Ring
• ch: Chain
• sc: Single Crochet
• inc: Increase (two single crochets in the same stitch)
• dec: Decrease (single crochet two stitches together)
• hdc: Half Double Crochet
• dc: Double Crochet
• sl st: Slip Stitch
• BLO: Back Loops Only
• FLO: Front Loops Only
• st(s): Stitch(es)
• [ ]: Repeat instructions within brackets

The Velvet Bunny Head

The head is worked in continuous rounds using the bulky velvet yarn. Velvet yarn can be tricky because the stitches are hard to see, so I highly recommend using a stitch marker to identify the first stitch of every round. Start with your 4.5mm crochet hook.

1. Rnd 1: Start with 6 sc in a Magic Ring. (6)
2. Rnd 2: Work 2 sc in each stitch around to double your count. (12)
3. Rnd 3: [sc in the next st, inc in the next st] repeat 6 times. (18)
4. Rnd 4: [sc in the next 2 sts, inc in the next st] repeat 6 times. (24)
5. Rnd 5: [sc in the next 3 sts, inc in the next st] repeat 6 times. (30)
6. Rnd 6: [sc in the next 4 sts, inc in the next st] repeat 6 times. (36)
7. Rnd 7-13: Work 1 sc in each stitch around for seven full rounds. (36)

Now it is time to place the safety eyes. Insert the 12mm eyes between rounds 9 and 10. Space them approximately 8 stitches apart. Once you are satisfied with the placement, snap the washers onto the back to secure them permanently inside the head.

8. Rnd 14: [sc in the next 4 sts, dec] repeat 6 times. (30)
9. Rnd 15: [sc in the next 3 sts, dec] repeat 6 times. (24)
10. Rnd 16: [sc in the next 2 sts, dec] repeat 6 times. (18)

Begin stuffing the head firmly with polyester fiberfill. Velvet yarn is quite forgiving, but you want to ensure the face is smooth and rounded. Add more stuffing as you close the final rounds to ensure the neck area will be stable enough.

11. Rnd 17: [sc in the next st, dec] repeat 6 times. (12)
12. Rnd 18: Work 6 dec around to close the base of the head. (6)

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Fasten off and leave a tail. Use your yarn needle to weave the tail through the front loops of the remaining 6 stitches and pull tight to close. Hide the end inside the head. Your bunny head is now complete and ready for detailing.

Upright Bunny Ears (Make 2)

The ears are designed to stand tall on top of the head. We work these in velvet yarn with the 4.5mm hook. These ears are not stuffed, which allows them to retain their characteristic flat, bunny-like shape while remaining upright.

1. Rnd 1: Create a Magic Ring and work 6 sc into the center. (6)
2. Rnd 2: [sc in the next st, inc in the next st] repeat 3 times. (9)
3. Rnd 3: [sc in the next 2 sts, inc in the next st] repeat 3 times. (12)
4. Rnd 4: [sc in the next 3 sts, inc in the next st] repeat 3 times. (15)
5. Rnd 5-10: Work 1 sc in each stitch around for six rounds. (15)
6. Rnd 11: [sc in the next 3 sts, dec] repeat 3 times. (12)
7. Rnd 12: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (12)

Fasten off and leave a long tail for sewing. Flatten the ear and do not add stuffing. Repeat these steps to create the second ear. These will be attached to the crown of the head later during the assembly process.

The Main Bunny Body

The body is worked from the bottom up. We want a pear-shaped silhouette to accommodate the flared dress. Continue using the velvet yarn and the 4.5mm hook. Make sure to stuff the body very firmly so the outfit fits perfectly.

1. Rnd 1: Start with 6 sc in a Magic Ring. (6)
2. Rnd 2: Work 2 sc in each stitch around. (12)
3. Rnd 3: [sc in the next st, inc in the next st] repeat 6 times. (18)
4. Rnd 4: [sc in the next 2 sts, inc in the next st] repeat 6 times. (24)
5. Rnd 5: [sc in the next 3 sts, inc in the next st] repeat 6 times. (30)
6. Rnd 6: [sc in the next 4 sts, inc in the next st] repeat 6 times. (36)
7. Rnd 7-12: Work 1 sc in each stitch around for six rounds. (36)
8. Rnd 13: [sc in the next 4 sts, dec] repeat 6 times. (30)
9. Rnd 14-15: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (30)
10. Rnd 16: [sc in the next 3 sts, dec] repeat 6 times. (24)
11. Rnd 17-18: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (24)
12. Rnd 19: [sc in the next 2 sts, dec] repeat 6 times. (18)
13. Rnd 20: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (18)

Fasten off and leave a long tail for sewing the body to the head. Stuff the body firmly, paying attention to the base so the bunny can sit or stand with stability. The top of the neck should be packed well.

Bunny Arms and Legs

The limbs are simple tubes that are attached to the body. Using the velvet yarn ensures the bunny feels soft and cohesive. We stuff the legs firmly but leave the top of the arms lightly stuffed for better movement.

Velvet Legs (Make 2)

1. Rnd 1: 6 sc in MR. (6)
2. Rnd 2: 6 inc. (12)
3. Rnd 3: [sc, inc] x 6. (18)
4. Rnd 4-6: sc in each st around. (18)
5. Rnd 7: 3 dec, 12 sc. (15)
6. Rnd 8-15: sc in each st around. (15)

Stuff the foot area very firmly. The upper part of the leg can be stuffed moderately. Fasten off and leave a tail for sewing. Repeat for the second leg. These will be attached to the base of the body.

Velvet Arms (Make 2)

1. Rnd 1: 6 sc in MR. (6)
2. Rnd 2: [sc, inc] x 3. (9)
3. Rnd 3-15: sc in each st around. (9)

Stuff the lower hand area. Flatten the top and work 4 sc through both layers to close. This makes it easier to sew the arms to the shoulders. Fasten off and leave a tail. Repeat for the second arm.

The Elegant Scalloped Dress

Now switch to your 2.5mm hook and the cream cotton yarn. This dress is worked from the waist down to create a flared skirt, then the bodice is added separately or worked upward from the foundation chain.

The Skirt

1. Row 1: Ch 36. Join with a sl st to the first chain to form a circle, making sure not to twist the chain. (36)
2. Rnd 2-4: Work 1 sc in each chain around. (36)
3. Rnd 5: [sc in 5 sts, inc] repeat 6 times. (42)
4. Rnd 6: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (42)
5. Rnd 7: [sc in 6 sts, inc] repeat 6 times. (48)
6. Rnd 8: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (48)
7. Rnd 9: [sc in 7 sts, inc] repeat 6 times. (54)
8. Rnd 10-15: Work 1 sc in each stitch around. (54)

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To create the beautiful scalloped hem seen in the image, we will work a shell stitch pattern in the final round. This gives the dress its vintage lace appearance and adds a layer of weight to the skirt.

16. Rnd 16 (Scallop Round): [Skip 1 st, work 5 dc in the next st, skip 1 st, sl st in the next st] repeat around. (This should create a lovely wavy edge).

Fasten off and weave in your ends. You can now attach the cream yarn to the top of the foundation chain to work the bodice. The bodice consists of a few rows of sc to cover the torso.

The Center Panel and Hellebore Flowers

The dress features a vertical decorative panel with three hellebore-style flowers. This is a separate strip that is sewn onto the front of the dress. Use the cream cotton yarn and the 2.5mm hook.

1. Panel: Ch 5, work 15 rows of 4 sc. This creates a long, thin rectangle.
2. Flower (Make 3): In a MR, work [ch 2, 2 hdc, ch 2, sl st] 5 times. This creates a 5-petal flower.
3. Assembly: Sew the flowers onto the panel. In the center of each flower, sew a small white pearl.

Sew this entire panel onto the front center of the dress. The flowers should be spaced evenly from the waistline down toward the hem, exactly as shown in the reference photo of the Hellebore Whisper Bunny.

The Pearl Capelet (Pelerin)

The capelet is one of the most striking features of this outfit. It sits over the bunny’s shoulders and is adorned with pearl-like textures and scalloped edges. We use cream cotton yarn and the 2.5mm hook.

1. Row 1: Ch 20. This will be the neck opening. (20)
2. Row 2: inc in each chain across. (40)
3. Row 3: [sc 3, inc] across. (50)
4. Row 4: Work 1 sc in each stitch across. (50)
5. Row 5: [sc 4, inc] across. (60)
6. Row 6: Work 1 sc in each stitch across. (60)
7. Row 7: [sc 5, inc] across. (70)
8. Row 8: To create the textured pearl look, work [sc, popcorn stitch] across. (A popcorn stitch is 5 dc in one st, then join the first and last dc).
9. Row 9 (Scallop Edge): [Skip 1 st, 5 dc in next st, skip 1 st, sl st in next] across.

Fasten off and leave a tail. When you place this on the bunny, you will use a large white pearl at the neck to act as a fastener. This gives the bunny a regal, Victorian-inspired garden look.

The Pillbox Hat and Floral Accent

The hat is a structured piece that sits at a jaunty angle on the bunny’s head. It is worked in cream cotton yarn. The side of the hat is decorated with a sage green band and a hellebore flower.

Hat Base

1. Rnd 1: 6 sc in MR. (6)
2. Rnd 2: 6 inc. (12)
3. Rnd 3: [sc, inc] x 6. (18)
4. Rnd 4: [2 sc, inc] x 6. (24)
5. Rnd 5: [3 sc, inc] x 6. (30)
6. Rnd 6: Work in BLO, 1 sc in each stitch around. (30)
7. Rnd 7-9: Work in both loops, 1 sc in each stitch around. (30)
8. Rnd 10: Sl st around to create a firm edge. (30)

Fasten off. Using sage green cotton yarn, embroider a band around the middle of the hat. Create another hellebore flower using the dusty rose yarn and sage green yarn for the center. Sew the flower to the hat side.

Strapped Pearl Shoes (Make 2)

The shoes are made to fit the velvet feet. Use the cream cotton yarn. These feature a small strap that fastens with a pearl, echoing the design of the capelet and the dress panel.

1. Rnd 1: Ch 6, starting in 2nd ch from hook, work 4 sc, 3 sc in the last ch. Work on the other side of the ch: 3 sc, inc. (12)
2. Rnd 2: inc, 3 sc, 3 inc, 3 sc, 2 inc. (18)
3. Rnd 3: 1 sc, inc, 3 sc, [1 sc, inc] x 3, 3 sc, [1 sc, inc] x 2. (24)
4. Rnd 4: Work in BLO, sc in each st around. (24)
5. Rnd 5: Work in both loops, 8 sc, 4 dec, 8 sc. (20)
6. Rnd 6: 6 sc, 4 dec, 6 sc. (16)
7. Strap: Ch 8 from one side and sl st to the other side. Sew a small pearl at the base of the strap.

Repeat these steps for the second shoe. Ensure the shoes fit snugly over the velvet feet. The pearl attachment adds a touch of elegance that ties the entire outfit together with the other accessories.

Miniature Sheep Companion

The little sheep is a companion that adds storytelling to the scene. It is made using textured bouclé yarn for the woolly body and smooth pink cotton for the face and legs. This requires the 2.5mm hook.

Sheep Head and Body

1. Rnd 1: In MR with pink cotton, 6 sc. (6)
2. Rnd 2: [sc, inc] x 3. (9)
3. Rnd 3: Work 1 sc in each st around. (9)
4. Rnd 4: Switch to bouclé yarn. Work 2 sc in each st around. (18)
5. Rnd 5-10: sc in each st around. (18)
6. Rnd 11: [sc, dec] x 6. (12)
7. Rnd 12: 6 dec to close. (6)

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Stuff firmly. Use 6mm safety eyes. Embroider a tiny nose. The sheep wears a miniature version of the bunny’s dress and hat. Make a simple cream cylinder for the skirt and a tiny pillbox hat using the hat pattern starting with 6 sc in MR but stopping after round 3.

Accessories: Purse, Candle, and Matchbox

To finish the scene, we must create the lifestyle accessories. These items turn the bunny from a simple doll into a character with a story. All accessories are made with cream cotton yarn.

The Purse

1. Row 1: Ch 12. Work 10 rows of 11 sc to create a rectangle.
2. Row 11: Ch 1, dec, sc 7, dec. Turn.
3. Row 12: Ch 1, dec, sc 5, dec. This forms the triangular flap.
4. Assembly: Fold the rectangle up and sew the sides. Sew a silver button on the flap.

The Candle

1. Rnd 1: 6 sc in MR. (6)
2. Rnd 2: Work in BLO, 6 sc around. (6)
3. Rnd 3-5: Work in both loops, 6 sc around. (6)
4. Flame: Using orange yarn, ch 2, work 3 hdc in the first ch. Sew to the top of the candle.

The Matchbox

The matchbox is a small cardboard or paper accessory. You can find printable templates online or use a small jewelry box. Decorate the top with a vintage botanical print to match the hellebore theme of the bunny.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

Begin by sewing the head to the body. Use a strong whip stitch and go around the neck twice to ensure stability. Velvet yarn is heavy, so the neck joint must be very secure to prevent the head from drooping.

Sew the ears to the top of the head, spaced about 2 inches apart. They should point straight up. Attach the arms to the sides of the body just below the neck line. Sew the legs to the bottom of the body so the bunny can sit.

Dress the bunny in the scalloped dress. Place the capelet over her shoulders and secure the pearl fastener. Put the shoes on her feet and the hat on her head. The hat can be pinned or sewn in place at an angle.

For the face, use dark brown embroidery thread to create a small “Y” shape for the nose. You can add long eyelashes with a single stitch for each eye. Apply a small amount of pink blush to the cheeks using a soft brush.

Place the sheep companion next to the bunny. Position the purse in one of her hands. Arrange the candle and matchbox nearby to complete the “Velvet Whisper” display. Your masterpiece is now fully assembled and ready for display.

Care Notes

This velvet bunny is a delicate item. Velvet yarn can shed if pulled, and the cotton lace is prone to snagging. It is best kept as a collector’s item on a shelf rather than a toy for active play.

Keep the display away from direct sunlight to prevent the cream yarn from yellowing and the velvet from fading. The pearl details are small, so ensure they are sewn on very tightly to prevent them from becoming loose over time.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Check that all safety eye washers are snapped on securely before closing the head.
• Ensure the head and neck are stuffed firmly to avoid the “wobble” effect.
• Verify that the scalloped hem of the dress is even all the way around the skirt.
• Confirm that the arms and legs are attached symmetrically to the body.
• Check that all pearls are securely fastened to the dress, capelet, and shoes.
• Weave in all remaining yarn ends so they are hidden deep inside the stuffing.

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

To clean your velvet bunny, use a soft lint roller or a clean, dry cloth to remove dust. Do not submerge the bunny in water, as velvet yarn can lose its texture and bouclé yarn can become matted.

If the cotton dress becomes soiled, spot clean it gently with a damp cloth and a very mild soap. Avoid rubbing the velvet parts. Let the item air dry completely in a shaded area; never use a machine dryer.

For long-term preservation, store the bunny in a breathable cotton bag. Avoid plastic containers, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew. Regularly check the pearl attachments and buttons to ensure the integrity of the design remains perfect.

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By following these steps, you have created a timeless piece of art. The Hellebore Velvet Whisper Bunny is a testament to your skill and patience. I hope this design brings a touch of magic and elegance to your home.