The Keene Rabbit Co. is no longer formally operating as a business.  However, a friend of ours offered an introduction to the former owner after we recently won this adorable stuffed bunny at a fundraiser auction:

  

The NH based company was founded by Judy Tobin, as a natural offshoot of a Wednesday evening sewing group.  Originally given as gifts to friends and relatives, the lop eared bunnies were eventually sent all over the country, even as far afield as Alaska.  One of the more memorable orders went out to a group of Russian orphans, befriended by Judy’s daughter, Elaine.

A vintage favorite of Judy’s:

Instructions for an old McCall’s pattern, from which they were originally created:

Packaging for the original pattern, no longer available:

While the bunnies are still very occasionally made, a recent challenge has been difficulty in sourcing quality, US manufactured fabrics. The muslin on the left is well over 30 years old and has held up well, with very little pillage.  Contrast with it’s recently purchased counterpart on the right – made in China, grainier in texture and already showing signs of wear:

Two more bunnies, eagerly awaiting their new owner:

This one will go to our niece as a post Easter, birthday gift:

Until then, it’s home will be this rocking chair:

 

Thanks to Judy Tobin for sharing a few of her many delightful creations, which will be treasured for years to come!