Knitting Tutorial: Queen Anne’s Lace Heirloom Bunny – Free Knitting Pattern

Welcome to the refined and nostalgic world of the Queen Anne’s Lace Heirloom Bunny. This exquisite project captures the essence of a bygone era, evoking the delicate beauty of antique lace, faded photographs, and the quiet dignity of a well-loved family treasure. This sophisticated rabbit character is dressed in a breathtaking ensemble featuring a blue and white lace-patterned dress that mimics the intricate structure of the wildflower it is named after.

To ensure your creation becomes a durable legacy piece, we highly recommend visiting a specialized yarn shop to select premium fibers. You should look to buy merino wool yarn for the bunny’s body to achieve a soft, vintage-style texture that feels substantial yet gentle. For the intricate lace clothing and the delicate accessories, allow yourself to purchase cotton yarn or a fine lace-weight blend which offers excellent stitch definition. Check your knitting supplies to ensure you have everything needed before we begin this journey into heirloom crafting.

 

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 Queen Anne’s Lace Heirloom Bunny stands approximately 14 inches (35 cm) tall. The construction is designed to be robust yet elegant, with the body and head knitted in pieces and seamed to allow for precise shaping of the curves. This method ensures the doll maintains its posture over time and can sit comfortably on a shelf or be displayed as a centerpiece.

The wardrobe is the highlight of this piece. The dress features a stunning chevron lace skirt in soft blue and white, creating a visual effect reminiscent of fine porcelain or vintage linen. The cardigan is a creamy, cropped classic, elevated by intricate floral embroidery. To complete the look, she wears a structured cloche hat and matching shoes.

The accessories are intricate and plentiful, adding layers of storytelling to the display. She is accompanied by a lace-covered clutch bag, a miniature jewelry box, a framed “photograph,” a lace handkerchief, and a loyal Kangaroo friend bearing a gift. Each element contributes to the narrative of a cherished memory.

Materials and Tools Checklist

• Yarn A (Bunny Skin): 100g DK weight yarn in Cream, Oatmeal, or Antique White.
• Yarn B (Dress Color 1 & Shoes): 50g DK weight yarn in Pale Blue or Duck Egg Blue.
• Yarn C (Dress Color 2, Hat, Cardigan): 80g DK weight yarn in White or Ivory.
• Yarn D (Kangaroo): 30g DK weight yarn in Camel or Light Brown.
• Yarn E (Embroidery & Details): Scraps of Pink, Green, and Dark Grey.
• Needles: US 3 (3.25mm) straight needles for the main body and clothing.
• Needles (Detailing): US 2 (2.75mm) for the miniature accessories like the kangaroo and box.
• Notions: Cable needle, tapestry needle, polyester fiberfill, two 9mm safety eyes (bunny), two 6mm beads (kangaroo eyes), embroidery floss, stitch holders, small pearl buttons, a small piece of cardboard (for the photo frame).

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.

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.
• SK2P: Slip 1, K2tog, pass slipped stitch over.
• RS: Right Side
• WS: Wrong Side
• Stockinette Stitch: Knit on the Right Side, Purl on the Wrong Side.

Part 1: Constructing the Heirloom Bunny Body

We begin the construction by knitting the legs individually. This provides a solid foundation for the doll to stand or sit. We will then join them to form the torso and continue seamlessly into the head.

Legs (Make 2)

Using Yarn A (Cream) 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.
• Row 2 (Increase): Knit into the front and back of every stitch. You will now have 24 stitches.
• Row 3: Purl all stitches.
• Row 4 (Increase): *Knit 1, Inc*, repeat from * to * to the end of the row. (36 sts)
• Rows 5-9: Work in stockinette stitch starting with a Purl row. This smooth section forms the base of the foot.
• Row 10 (Shape Foot): Knit 12, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 12. This creates the instep of the foot, giving it a realistic shape. (30 sts)
• Row 11: Purl all stitches.
• Row 12 (Shape Foot): Knit 9, (K2tog) 6 times, Knit 9. (24 sts)
• Row 13: Purl all stitches.
• Row 14 (Ankle Shaping): Knit 8, (K2tog) 4 times, Knit 8. (20 sts)
• 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 holder. 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.

Torso and Head

With the second leg on your needle, cast on 2 stitches (this forms the crotch), then knit across the 20 stitches of the first leg from the holder.

• Row 43: You should now have 42 stitches on your needle.
• Row 44: Purl all stitches.
• Row 45 (Hip Increase): Knit 10, Inc, Knit 20, Inc, Knit 10. (44 sts)
• 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)
• 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.
• 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)
• 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)
• Rows 86-106: Work straight in stockinette stitch. This height is necessary to give the bunny its classic round face.
• Row 107 (Decrease): *Knit 7, K2tog*, repeat from * to * to the end. (48 sts)
• 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 (Cream), 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.
• Row 27: *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat to the end. (15 sts)
• 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.

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)
• 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 Queen Anne’s Lace Dress

This dress is a marvel of texture and color. It uses a “Feather and Fan” or “Old Shale” lace pattern to create the undulating waves on the skirt, alternating between Pale Blue and White to highlight the design.

Lace Skirt

Using Yarn B (Pale Blue), cast on 77 stitches. (Multiple of 11 sts).

Note on Color Changes: Change colors every 4 rows (or every repeat of the pattern) to create the striped lace effect seen in the image. Start with Blue, then White, and alternate.

• Rows 1-2: Knit across using Yarn B (Garter Stitch edge).
• Row 3 (Pattern Row 1): *Knit 2tog twice, (YO, Knit 1) 3 times, YO, SSK twice*, repeat from * to * to the end. This creates the wave.
• Row 4: Purl.
• Row 5: Knit.
• Row 6: Purl.
• Row 7: Change to Yarn C (White). Repeat the Pattern Row 1 (*K2tog twice, (YO, K1) 3 times, YO, SSK twice*).
• Row 8: Purl.
• Row 9: Knit.
• Row 10: Purl.
• Rows 11-34: Continue alternating colors every 4 rows, maintaining the lace pattern rows. The skirt should look like rippling water or layers of lace petals.

Waist and Bodice

End with a Blue section. We will now decrease significantly for the waist.

• Row 35 (Waist Decrease): Using Yarn B (Blue), *Knit 1, K2tog*, repeat to end. (approx 52 sts)
• Row 36: Purl all stitches.
• Row 37 (Waist Decrease 2): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end. (approx 42 sts)
• Row 38: Purl across.

Lace Upper Bodice:

Change to Yarn C (White) to create the delicate chest panel.

• Row 39: *Knit 1, YO, K2tog*, repeat to end. (Simple eyelet mesh).
• Row 40: Purl.
• Rows 41-42: Repeat Rows 39-40.
• Row 43 (Armhole Shaping): Knit 6, cast off 4 sts, Knit 22, cast off 4 sts, Knit 6.
• Row 44: Purl 6, cast on 4 sts, Purl 22, cast on 4 sts, Purl 6. (42 sts)
• Rows 45-48: Work in stockinette stitch (White).
• Row 49: Knit (Garter ridge).
• Row 50: Cast off loosely.

Sew the back seam of the skirt up to the waist. Leave the bodice open and attach a small snap fastener or a pearl button.

Part 3: The Embroidered Cardigan

This cardigan is a simple, elegant piece in Cream (Yarn C) that allows the floral embroidery to shine.

Back Panel

Cast on 34 stitches using Yarn C.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row (Garter Stitch) for the hem.
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 21 (Armhole): Cast off 3 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows. (28 sts)
• Rows 23-34: Work straight in stockinette stitch.
• Row 35: Cast off all stitches.

Left Front

Cast on 18 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 21: Cast off 3 stitches at the armhole edge.
• Rows 22-28: Work straight.
• Row 29 (Neck): Cast off 5 stitches at the neck edge.
• Row 30: Purl.
• Row 31: Decrease 1 stitch at the neck edge.
• Row 35: Cast off remaining stitches.

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Right Front

Work as for the Left Front, reversing the shaping for the armhole and neck.

Sleeves (Make 2)

Cast on 22 stitches.

• Rows 1-4: Knit every row.
• Rows 5-20: Work in stockinette stitch, increasing 1 stitch at each end of Row 8 and Row 16. (26 sts)
• Row 21: Cast off.

Floral Embroidery

Once assembled, embroider the lapels of the cardigan.

Motif: A vertical spray of flowers.

1. Use Green floss to stitch a central stem and small leaves.

2. Use Blue and Pink floss to create small satin-stitch petals or French knots along the stem.

3. Ensure the embroidery is symmetrical on both sides of the cardigan opening.

Part 4: The Cloche Hat

This hat is knitted in Yarn C (White) with a textured brim and a flower decoration.

• Brim: Cast on 60 stitches.
• Rows 1-6: Knit every row (Garter Stitch).
• Row 7 (Definition Row): Purl on the RS to create a turning ridge.
• Rows 8-18: Work in stockinette stitch.
• Row 19 (Decrease): *Knit 4, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 20: Purl.
• Row 21 (Decrease): *Knit 3, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 22: Purl.
• Row 23 (Decrease): *Knit 2, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 24: Purl.
• Row 25 (Decrease): *Knit 1, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 26: K2tog across.

Draw yarn through remaining stitches and sew the back seam.

Flower: Create a rosette by casting on 40 stitches, knitting 2 rows, then K2tog across the next row. Roll up the strip and sew to the side of the hat.

Part 5: Pale Blue Shoes

Using Yarn B (Pale Blue), cast on 12 stitches.

• Sole: Knit 10 rows in Garter Stitch.
• Upper: Pick up 30 stitches around three sides of the sole rectangle.
• 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. Crochet a strap. Sew a small white button on the strap for decoration.

Part 6: Heirloom Accessories

The Lace Clutch Bag

Using Yarn C (White) and Yarn B (Blue) held together for a marled effect, or just Yarn C.

• Body: Cast on 16 stitches. Work in the same Lace Pattern used for the dress skirt (*K2tog, YO…*) for 3 inches.
• Frame: If you have a small metal purse frame, sew the knitted piece to it. If not, knit a flap (decrease 1 st at each end of every row until 6 sts remain, cast off) and sew a button.
• Assembly: Fold the bottom up and sew side seams.

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The Kangaroo Friend

Using Yarn D (Camel/Light Brown), US 2 needles.

• Body & Head: Cast on 10 stitches. Increase to 20. Work 10 rows stockinette. Decrease to 12 (Neck). Work 2 rows. Increase to 18 (Head). Work 6 rows. Decrease to 6. Draw through. Stuff firmly.
• Tail: Cast on 6 stitches. Knit 10 rows. Decrease to 1. Sew to back, using the tail to help the kangaroo stand.
• Legs (Make 2): Cast on 6 stitches. Knit 6 rows. Cast off. Sew to bottom.
• Arms (Make 2): Cast on 4 stitches. Knit 4 rows. Cast off. Sew to sides.
• Ears: Cast on 2 stitches. Knit 4 rows. Bind off. Sew to head.
• Pouch: Pick up 6 stitches on the tummy. Knit 4 rows. Cast off. Sew sides to create a pocket.
• Gift Box: Knit a tiny cube in Blue (Yarn B) and place it in the kangaroo’s pouch or hands.

The Framed Photo

Using Yarn C (White) or Yarn A (Cream).

• Frame: Cast on 24 stitches. Join in the round. Knit 2 rounds. Purl 1 round (turning ridge). Knit 2 rounds. Cast off.
• Backing: Cut a piece of cardboard to fit inside the frame. Glue or stitch a small printed photo (black and white looks best) onto the card.
• Assembly: Sew the knitted frame around the cardboard edge.

The Jewelry Box

Using Yarn A (Cream).

• Base: Cast on 10 stitches. Knit a square.
• Lid: Cast on 10 stitches. Knit a square.
• Sides: Pick up stitches around the base and knit 4 rows. Cast off.
• Assembly: Sew the lid to one side. Sew a tiny bead on the front as a latch. Place a small piece of cotton wool inside as “cushioning”.

Lace Handkerchief

Using Yarn C (White).

• Cast on 20 stitches.
• Row 1: Knit.
• Row 2: *K2tog, YO*, repeat to end.
• Rows 3-15: Stockinette stitch.
• Row 16: *YO, K2tog*, repeat to end.
• Row 17: Knit.
• Cast off. This delicate piece can be placed near the bunny or tucked into her bag.

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; you may want to insert a small roll of felt or extra stuffing into the neck column for stability.
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 dark brown 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 securely stitched if the toy is intended for a child?

Your Queen Anne’s Lace Heirloom Bunny is now complete. This project is a celebration of memory, delicacy, and the art of knitting. Whether it sits on a shelf among antiques or is given as a gift to a new generation, it is sure to be cherished for years to come.