Pansy Patchwork Sweetie Bunny – Knitting

This sweet knitted bunny is dressed like a tiny countryside artist, complete with a soft purple beret, a green cardigan trimmed with pansy blossoms, and a patchwork skirt that looks like a quilt made from favorite scraps. The look is cozy, collectible, and perfect for gift-giving. If you enjoy shopping for premium DK yarn, cute wooden buttons, toy stuffing, and small buckles for doll shoes, this project is a satisfying make that photographs beautifully and feels heirloom-quality in your hands.

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

You will knit a seated bunny doll with long floppy ears, embroidered face, a purple beret with a pansy applique, a green cardigan with pansy motifs on the cuffs, a patchwork skirt with a scalloped cream hem, and brown shoes with small square buckles.

The image also includes a tiny patchwork purse and a small dog companion wearing a patchwork dress and a matching beret. Those accessories are included so your finished set matches the photo closely.

Finished Size

• Main bunny: about 12–14 in (30–36 cm) tall when seated (size varies with yarn and stuffing).
• Dog companion: about 5–6 in (13–15 cm) tall.
• Purse: about 2.5–3 in (6–7.5 cm) wide.

Skill Level

• Confident beginner to intermediate.
• You should be comfortable with knitting small pieces, seaming, simple color changes, and basic embroidery.

Supplies

• DK weight yarn (or light worsted) in:
  • Cream (main body, head, ears, legs, scalloped hem).
  • Green (cardigan).
  • Purple (beret, accents).
  • Brown (shoes).
  • Patchwork colors: at least 8–12 small amounts (dusty blue, teal, orange, red, wine, mustard, lavender, navy, pink, and cream speckles).
  • Dog colors: tan/brown body, plus patchwork scraps.
• Needles:
  • US 2–4 (2.75–3.5 mm) straight or circular needles for tight fabric (choose size that gives dense stitches).
  • Set of double-point needles (DPNs) or magic loop needle for small circumferences (beret and small parts).
• Tapestry needle for seaming and embroidery.
• Fiberfill stuffing.
• Stitch markers.
• Small button for cardigan (1) to match the photo.
• Optional: thin felt for shoe soles (not visible but helps stability).
• Optional: small square buckles (2) or crochet/embroidered faux buckles in beige/tan.
• Thin ribbon or cord for purse strap (or knit strap as written).

Notions for the Pansy Details

• Small amounts of purple, lavender, white, yellow, and a tiny bit of dark purple/black for flower centers.
• Embroidery floss can be used instead of yarn for crisp petals.

Gauge

Gauge is not critical, but your fabric must be tight so stuffing does not show. Aim for a firm stockinette where stitches look compact. If your fabric feels loose, go down a needle size.

Techniques Used

• Stockinette stitch (St st), garter stitch (G st).
• Increases and decreases (kfb, k2tog, ssk).
• Short seams with mattress stitch.
• Simple embroidery for face and pansy details.
• Intarsia-style small color blocks (patchwork) or duplicate stitch if you prefer.

Abbreviations

• k = knit
• p = purl
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• RS/WS = right side / wrong side
• St st = stockinette stitch
• G st = garter stitch
• kfb = knit front and back (increase)
• k2tog = knit two together (decrease)
• ssk = slip, slip, knit (decrease)
• BO = bind off
• CO = cast on

Construction Notes

The bunny is made from separate pieces: head, body, arms, legs, ears, and tail. Clothes and accessories are knitted separately and then dressed on the doll. The patchwork skirt is worked as a band of squares joined as you go for a true quilt look, then gathered slightly at the waist.

To match the photo, keep shaping soft and rounded. Stuff firmly but do not overstuff. The bunny should sit with gentle weight in the bottom.

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Main Bunny: Head

Head is knitted flat in St st, then seamed. Use Cream.

Head Panel

1. CO 42 sts.
2. Work 6 rows G st (k every row) for a subtle rolled edge at the neck opening.
3. Switch to St st and work 20 rows.
4. Shape top of head:
   • Row 1 (RS): k1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, ssk, k1. (40)
   • Row 2 (WS): p across.
   • Repeat Rows 1–2 five more times. (30)
   • Next RS: k1, k2tog, k to last 3, ssk, k1. (28)
   • Next WS: p across.
5. Work 6 more rows St st without shaping to create a rounded crown.
6. Begin final crown shaping:
   • RS: k2tog across to end. (14)
   • WS: p across.
   • RS: k2tog across. (7)
7. Cut yarn leaving a long tail. Thread tail through remaining 7 sts and pull tight.

Seam and Stuff Head

Fold the head panel with RS facing out. Seam the back from the crown down toward the neck edge using mattress stitch. Stuff as you seam, shaping into an oval. Keep the front slightly flatter where the face will be embroidered.

Main Bunny: Ears (Make 2)

Long, floppy ears knitted flat. Use Cream.

1. CO 18 sts.
2. Work 4 rows G st for a neat edge.
3. Work 34 rows St st.
4. Shape ear tip:
   • RS: k1, k2tog, k to last 3, ssk, k1. (16)
   • WS: p across.
   • Repeat these two rows 5 times. (8)
   • RS: k2tog across. (4)
   • WS: p across.
   • RS: k2tog across. (2)
5. BO remaining 2 sts.

Fold each ear lengthwise with WS inside and seam the long edge, leaving the base open. Turn RS out. Lightly stuff only the lower third so the ear stays floppy like in the photo.

Main Bunny: Body

Body is knitted flat in Cream with a rounded tummy.

Body Front/Back (Knit 2 identical panels)

1. CO 34 sts.
2. Work 6 rows G st.
3. Work 26 rows St st.
4. Shape shoulders:
   • RS: k1, k2tog, k to last 3, ssk, k1. (32)
   • WS: p across.
   • Repeat once more. (30)
5. Work 6 rows St st.
6. BO 8 sts at the beginning of next 2 rows for armholes. (14 sts remain at center neckline/upper body)
7. Work 8 rows on remaining 14 sts.
8. BO all sts.

Seam and Stuff Body

Place the two panels together with RS facing out. Seam side seams, leaving armholes open. Seam the bottom edge closed. Stuff firmly, concentrating extra stuffing low in the belly to create the seated shape.

When stuffing, gently pinch the waist area so the cardigan and skirt sit nicely. The body should be slightly narrower at the waist than at the hips.

Main Bunny: Arms (Make 2)

Arms are knitted flat in Cream, then seamed.

1. CO 18 sts.
2. Work 6 rows G st for a cuff.
3. Work 22 rows St st.
4. Shape rounded hand:
   • RS: k1, k2tog, k to last 3, ssk, k1. (16)
   • WS: p across.
   • Repeat these two rows twice more. (12)
   • RS: k2tog across. (6)
5. Cut yarn, thread through remaining 6 sts, pull tight.

Seam along length with WS inside, turn RS out, and lightly stuff. Arms should be soft and slightly bendable so they rest at the bunny’s sides like in the photo.

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Main Bunny: Legs (Make 2)

Legs are knitted flat in Cream. Shoes will be added over the feet.

1. CO 22 sts.
2. Work 6 rows G st.
3. Work 28 rows St st.
4. Shape top:
   • RS: k1, k2tog, k to last 3, ssk, k1. (20)
   • WS: p across.
   • Repeat once. (18)
5. Work 6 rows St st.
6. BO all sts.

Fold each leg piece lengthwise, seam, and turn RS out. Stuff firmly, especially at the lower half so the legs help the doll sit upright. Leave the top slightly softer for easier attachment.

Main Bunny: Tail

Small pom tail. Use Cream.

Wrap yarn around two fingers about 20 times, tie tightly at the center, cut loops, and trim into a small puff. Set aside for assembly.

Face Embroidery

Use black or very dark brown yarn (or embroidery floss) for the features. The face in the photo is simple: small oval eyes, a tiny nose, and a neat split mouth.

• Place eyes about halfway down the head, spaced about 9–10 sts apart (adjust for your gauge).
• Stitch each eye as a small vertical satin stitch about 3–4 rows tall.
• For the nose, make a tiny inverted “V” or short triangle between the eyes, slightly lower.
• For the mouth, stitch a straight line down 2–3 rows, then split into a “Y”.

Keep everything delicate. The charm comes from the minimal, calm expression.

Purple Beret

Worked in the round. Use Purple. Use DPNs or magic loop.

1. CO 72 sts. Join in the round, place marker.
2. Rib brim: Work k2, p2 rib for 10 rounds.
3. Increase round: (k6, kfb) repeat around. (84)
4. Work 6 rounds St st (k every round).
5. Second increase: (k7, kfb) repeat around. (96)
6. Work 10 rounds St st.
7. Shape crown with decreases:
   • Dec Rnd 1: (k10, k2tog) repeat around. (88)
   • Knit 1 rnd.
   • Dec Rnd 2: (k9, k2tog) repeat around. (80)
   • Knit 1 rnd.
   • Dec Rnd 3: (k8, k2tog) repeat around. (72)
   • Knit 1 rnd.
   • Continue decreasing in the same rhythm, reducing the knit section by 1 each decrease round, with a plain knit round between, until 12 sts remain.
8. Cut yarn, thread through remaining 12 sts, pull tight to close.

Create the tiny top nub: with a crochet hook or needle, pull a small loop at the center and stitch it down so it forms a little bump like in the photo.

Pansy Applique for the Beret

This pansy is small and layered, with light petals and a yellow center. Use lavender, white, purple, yellow, and a tiny dark accent.

Simple Knit-and-Stitch Method (Very Photogenic)

• Knit 5 tiny petals:
  • CO 6 sts with lavender or white.
  • Row 1 (RS): k.
  • Row 2 (WS): p.
  • Row 3: k1, kfb, k to last 1, kfb. (8)
  • Row 4: p.
  • Row 5: k.
  • BO all sts.
• Make 2 petals in white, 2 in lavender, and 1 in purple for depth.
• Center: Knit a tiny yellow circle by CO 10 sts, knit 1 row, purl 1 row, BO.

Layer petals into a flower shape. Stitch them onto the beret near the front edge. Add a small dark purple “ink blot” stitch on the upper petals and a few black/dark stitches at the center for the pansy’s markings.

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Green Cardigan

Cardigan is worked flat with a simple opening and one button. Use Green. The cuffs feature pansy motifs like in the photo.

Back

1. CO 36 sts.
2. Work 6 rows G st.
3. Work 22 rows St st.
4. Armhole shaping:
   • BO 4 sts at the start of next 2 rows. (28)
   • Work 12 rows St st.
   • Shoulders: BO 7 sts at start of next 2 rows. (14)
   • BO remaining 14 sts for neckline.

Front Left

1. CO 18 sts.
2. Work 6 rows G st.
3. Work 22 rows St st.
4. Armhole: BO 4 sts at start of next RS row. (14)
5. Work 10 rows St st.
6. Neck shaping:
   • RS: BO 3 sts, knit to end. (11)
   • WS: p across.
   • RS: BO 2 sts, knit to end. (9)
   • Work 4 more rows St st.
   • BO remaining 9 sts.

Front Right

Knit to match Front Left, reversing neckline shaping. This gives a clean, symmetrical opening.

Sleeves (Make 2)

1. CO 24 sts.
2. Work 6 rows G st.
3. Work 10 rows St st.
4. Increase for gentle puff:
   • RS: k1, kfb, k to last 1, kfb. (26)
   • Work 8 rows St st.
5. BO all sts.

Pansy Cuff Motifs

On each sleeve cuff, place two small pansy blossoms like the photo. You can either duplicate stitch or sew on tiny appliques.

• Duplicate stitch method: Use lavender/white/purple/yellow to create small flower shapes across the cuff band.
• Applique method: Make 4 mini pansies total and stitch 2 onto each cuff, spacing them evenly.

Keep blossoms clustered near the outer cuff area so they show clearly when the bunny is dressed.

Cardigan Finishing

Seam shoulders. Set sleeves into armholes and seam sleeve seams. Seam side seams. Add a small button on the right front. On the left front, create a simple yarn loop for the button closure.

Patchwork Skirt with Scalloped Hem

The skirt in the photo has a quilt-like patchwork band and a cream scalloped edge. This section builds that look with joined squares and a soft gathered waist.

Patchwork Squares (Make 24–30, adjust for fit)

Each square is knitted flat. Use scrap colors. Mix textures and tones so the skirt looks like a true patchwork blanket.

1. CO 10 sts.
2. Work 10 rows St st.
3. BO all sts.

Make squares in different colors. For extra charm, add a few simple motifs by using a speckled yarn or embroidering tiny dots and hearts.

Join Squares Into a Band

Lay squares in a pleasing arrangement. The photo shows a lively mix: blues, oranges, reds, purples, and creams. Join using mattress stitch so seams are neat and nearly invisible.

• Join squares into a long strip that wraps around the bunny’s waist with slight overlap.
• For a 12–14 in seated doll, a strip of about 8–10 squares wide is typical.
• Make the strip 2–3 squares tall for the skirt depth.

Waistband

Use a coordinating color (cream or a soft neutral). Knit a waistband that will gather the patchwork strip.

1. CO 64 sts.
2. Work k1, p1 rib for 8 rows.
3. BO loosely.

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Attach Waistband to Patchwork

With WS of waistband facing WS of patchwork, stitch the waistband along the top edge of the patchwork strip. As you sew, gently gather the patchwork to fit the waistband length. This creates the soft “quilt skirt” drape shown in the photo.

Scalloped Hem (Cream)

Pick up stitches along the bottom edge of the patchwork strip using Cream. Work a scalloped edging to match the wavy hem in the photo.

1. Pick up approximately 2 sts per square edge section, keeping the pick-up even.
2. Work 2 rounds/rows of G st (if flat) or 2 rounds knit (if in the round).
3. Scallop row (worked flat):
   • *BO 2 sts, CO 4 sts using cable cast on; repeat from * across.
4. Knit 1 row to stabilize, then BO loosely.

This creates small waves. If your scallops look too dramatic, BO 1 and CO 3 instead. Aim for a gentle scallop like the photo.

Underdress Detail (Optional but Matches the Look)

The bunny appears to have a light inner layer peeking under the cardigan. You can create a simple cream bib panel that sits under the cardigan opening.

1. CO 16 sts in Cream.
2. Work 18 rows St st.
3. Work 4 rows G st.
4. BO all sts.

Stitch the top corners lightly to the bunny body so it stays centered.

Brown Shoes with Buckles (Make 2)

The shoes are chunky, cozy, and slightly oversized, with a strap and square buckle detail. Knit firmly so they keep shape.

Shoe Base

1. CO 24 sts in Brown.
2. Work 4 rows G st.
3. Work 16 rows St st.
4. Toe shaping:
   • RS: k1, k2tog, k to last 3, ssk, k1. (22)
   • WS: p across.
   • Repeat these two rows 4 times. (14)
   • RS: k2tog across. (7)
5. Cut yarn, thread through 7 sts, pull tight.

Shoe Sides

Pick up stitches along the sides of the shoe base opening and knit a short cuff so the shoe hugs the bunny foot.

1. Pick up 32 sts evenly around the top opening.
2. Knit 6 rounds.
3. Work 2 rounds k1, p1 rib.
4. BO loosely.

Shoe Strap and Buckle

• Strap: CO 8 sts. Work 12 rows G st. BO.
• Buckle look:
  • If you have tiny square buckles, sew them onto the strap ends.
  • If not, embroider a square using beige yarn and add a small stitched bar in the center.

Wrap strap across the top of each shoe and stitch in place. Position buckles at the outer side, matching the photo’s placement.

Patchwork Purse

This little pouch sits beside the bunny and repeats the patchwork theme. Keep it small and boxy.

Purse Front and Back (Make 2)

Make 8 mini squares using scrap colors.

• Mini square: CO 6 sts, knit 6 rows, BO.

Arrange 4 squares into a 2×2 panel and seam. Make two panels.

Purse Gusset

1. CO 8 sts in a coordinating color.
2. Work 24 rows G st.
3. BO.

Assemble Purse

Seam gusset around the sides and bottom between the front and back panels. Leave the top open. Add a simple strap by knitting an i-cord or a narrow strip.

1. Strap: CO 4 sts, work 60 rows G st, BO.

Stitch strap ends inside the purse corners. The purse should look soft and handmade, not stiff.

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Dog Companion (Small Plush)

The tiny dog is a knitted friend wearing a patchwork dress and a small beret. Keep shaping simple and cute. Use Tan/Brown for the body and scraps for clothing.

Dog Body

1. CO 22 sts in Tan.
2. Work 6 rows G st.
3. Work 18 rows St st.
4. Shape top:
   • RS: k1, k2tog, k to last 3, ssk, k1. (20)
   • WS: p across.
   • Repeat 4 times. (12)
   • RS: k2tog across. (6)
5. Thread yarn through 6 sts and pull tight.

Seam down the back, stuff, and close bottom. Make the body slightly oval so it sits nicely.

Dog Head

1. CO 20 sts in Tan.
2. Work 4 rows G st.
3. Work 14 rows St st.
4. Decrease:
   • RS: k1, k2tog, k to last 3, ssk, k1. (18)
   • WS: p across.
   • Repeat 4 times. (10)
   • RS: k2tog across. (5)
5. Thread yarn through 5 sts, pull tight.

Seam, stuff, and attach to body. Stitch a small nose and eyes using dark yarn, keeping them simple like the photo.

Dog Ears (Make 2)

1. CO 8 sts in Tan.
2. Work 10 rows St st.
3. BO.

Fold each ear slightly and stitch to the head sides so they droop gently.

Dog Arms/Legs

Make 4 small tubes.

1. CO 6 sts in Tan.
2. Work 10 rows St st.
3. BO.

Seam each into a tiny tube, lightly stuff, and stitch to body. Keep limbs short and rounded.

Dog Patchwork Dress

Create a tiny skirt using mini patchwork squares, then add a simple waistband.

• Make 6–8 mini squares (CO 6, knit 6 rows, BO).
• Join into a strip and seam into a ring.
• Waistband: CO 24 sts in a coordinating color, work 6 rows k1 p1 rib, BO loosely.

Stitch waistband to top of patchwork ring, gathering slightly. Dress should flare softly.

Dog Mini Beret

Use scraps that match the bunny’s skirt, with a hint of purple if possible.

1. CO 40 sts, join in round.
2. Work k1, p1 rib for 6 rounds.
3. Increase: (k4, kfb) repeat around. (48)
4. Knit 6 rounds.
5. Decrease: (k4, k2tog) repeat around. (40)
6. Knit 1 round.
7. Decrease: (k3, k2tog) repeat around. (32)
8. Continue until 8 sts remain, then pull tight to close.

Dressing the Bunny

Dress the bunny in layers for the exact look. The cardigan sits open at the front with one button near the chest. The skirt waistband sits at the natural waist, with the scalloped hem falling over the legs.

• Put on the skirt first and position the patchwork so your favorite blocks show in front.
• Add the optional under-bib panel if you made it.
• Slide the cardigan on and close with the single button.
• Add the shoes and secure with a few hidden stitches so they stay on.
• Place the beret slightly tilted, with the pansy applique centered toward the front.

Main Assembly Order

Assemble the bunny carefully so proportions match the photo: a large rounded head, a compact seated body, long floppy ears, and gently rounded limbs.

1. Attach legs to the bottom front of the body, spaced so the bunny sits balanced.
2. Attach arms at the sides, slightly forward so they rest naturally.
3. Attach head to body with strong stitching, keeping the face forward and centered.
4. Attach ears along the head sides, slightly behind the eye line so they frame the face.
5. Stitch the tail to the lower back.

Shaping Tips for a Photo-Matching Look

• Keep the head slightly wider than the body for the classic plush proportion.
• Stuff the lower body more firmly than the upper body to encourage sitting.
• Leave the arms softer so they drape instead of sticking out.
• Lightly stuff the lower ear only, letting the top fold naturally.

Final Assembly and Facial Detailing

Check symmetry before tightening final stitches. Adjust the head angle so the bunny looks gently downward, like the calm expression in the photo. If needed, add a few hidden shaping stitches from the back of the head to the neck to prevent wobble.

Reinforce the embroidered mouth with a second pass of yarn so it stays crisp. If you want extra softness, lightly brush the embroidery with your fingertip to settle the fibers into the knit surface.

Care Notes

Hand wash gently in cool water with mild soap. Press in a towel to remove excess water, then reshape and air dry flat. Avoid twisting, which can distort the patchwork seams and scalloped hem.

Quick Checklist Before You Finish

• Face embroidery is centered and secure.
• Ears are placed evenly and hang at similar angles.
• Cardigan button closes neatly without pulling.
• Skirt waistband sits flat and patchwork looks balanced.
• Shoes are secure and buckles face outward.
• Beret tilt matches the look, pansy sits at the front.
• Purse strap is attached firmly, dog companion outfit fits.

Detailed Cleaning and Preservation Guidelines

For long-term display, keep the doll out of direct sunlight to prevent fading, especially in the purple and green areas. Store in a breathable cotton bag rather than plastic. If the doll is handled often, consider a light surface clean with a damp cloth between full washes, and re-fluff stuffing by gently massaging the body after drying.