Looking for a cozy and stylish knit? This free pixie bonnet pattern is just the thing! Knit with KnitPicks City Tweed DK (affiliate link), it has a lovely vintage feel. Be sure to check out all of our free hat patterns here.
A Nostalgic Knit: My Favorite Free Pixie Bonnet Pattern
It’s been a whirlwind of a season over here! After what felt like a never-ending process, we are finally settled into our new home—cue the celebratory knitting! And what better way to mark the occasion than by bringing back an old favorite from my pattern collection?
Let me introduce you to Jewel Pixie Bonnet, a free pixie bonnet pattern that I originally designed back in 2018. This one has always held a special place in my heart. Maybe it’s the whimsical shape, the perfect fit, or just the fact that it knits up so effortlessly. Whatever the reason, it’s time to dust it off and share it again!
If you’re an adventurous beginner, this pattern is for you. It’s simple but with just enough technique to keep things interesting. The finishing requires either Kitchener stitch (for the seamless look) or a three-needle bind-off (for a bit more structure). And of course, we can’t forget the charming I-cord ties, which give this bonnet the sweetest finishing touch.
Why This Free Pixie Bonnet Pattern is a Must-Knit
I love a good free pixie bonnet pattern, and this one checks all the boxes:
✅ Quick Knit: You’ll have it done in an afternoon!
✅ Beginner-Friendly: Just knits, purls, and some simple finishing techniques.
✅ Adorable Fit: The classic pixie shape is timeless.
✅ Great Gift Idea: New moms will adore this for their little ones.
✅ Perfect for Tweed: The texture of KnitPicks City Tweed DK (affiliate link) makes this extra special.
One of my favorite things about this pattern is how well it pairs with tweed yarn. There’s just something about the flecks of color that give it a vintage, heirloom feel. And since I used KnitPicks City Tweed DK (affiliate link), the softness and slight halo of the alpaca blend make it extra cozy.
Knitting the Free Pixie Bonnet Pattern
This free pixie bonnet pattern is knit flat, which makes it a fantastic project for anyone who doesn’t love working in the round.
Step 1: Knit the Body
The main portion of the bonnet is a simple flat knit piece. It’s straightforward enough that you can knit while binge-watching your favorite show or listening to an audiobook.
Step 2: Seam It Up
Once the body is done, you’ll need to seam the back. You can either use Kitchener stitch for a smooth, seamless look or opt for a three-needle bind-off for a slightly more structured finish. I’ve done both, and honestly, it just depends on the look you’re going for!
Step 3: Add the Ties
Now comes my favorite part—the I-cord ties! These are picked up along the front edge of the bonnet and give it that classic pixie bonnet look. If you’ve never made an I-cord before, don’t worry! They’re incredibly simple and add such a professional touch.
The Best Yarn for This Free Pixie Bonnet Pattern
I always say that the right yarn can completely transform a pattern, and that’s especially true for this free pixie bonnet pattern. I chose KnitPicks City Tweed DK (affiliate link), and I couldn’t be happier with the results.
This yarn is a blend of merino wool, alpaca, and Donegal tweed, which means it’s both warm and luxuriously soft. The tweed flecks add just the right amount of texture, making this bonnet feel like something straight out of a vintage knitting book. If you love that old-world charm, KnitPicks City Tweed DK (affiliate link) is the way to go.
That said, if you’re looking to substitute yarn, any DK-weight wool or wool blend will work well. Just make sure to check your gauge so your bonnet turns out the right size!
Styling Your Free Pixie Bonnet Pattern
One of the things I love most about this free pixie bonnet pattern is how versatile it is. Whether you’re knitting it as a baby shower gift or just making something special for your little one, there are endless ways to style it.
✨ Classic & Cozy: Pair it with a simple garter stitch cardigan and wool booties for an heirloom-quality baby outfit.
🌲 Rustic & Outdoorsy: Opt for an earthy tweed shade and match it with a cable-knit sweater.
🎨 Bright & Fun: Go for a bold color to give the vintage pixie shape a modern twist!
No matter how you style it, this free pixie bonnet pattern is sure to turn heads.
Get the Free Pixie Bonnet Pattern Now!
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably itching to cast on—and I don’t blame you! The free pixie bonnet pattern is ready and waiting for you to download below.
And if you do make one, I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram or share it in your knitting groups so we can all admire your beautiful work.
Happy knitting!
Materials and Info
Material – appx 65-150yds sport weight (size 3) yarn (I used KnitPicks City Tweed DK), size 4 (3.5mm) straight AND dpn, yarn needle
Gauge: 6sts/1in GAUGE IS VERY IMPORTANT! SWATCH FIRST!
Appx Finished Measurements – Newborn 5x5ins, 0-3m 5.5×5.5ins, 3-6m 6x6ins, 6-12mth 6.5×6.5ins, toddler 7x7ins, child 7.5×7.5ins (measurements are for bonnet when laid flat)
Jewel Pixie Bonnet Pattern
NEWBORN
Cast on 60sts
Row 1-4 – k1p1 across
Row 5 (wrong side) – k4, [p4, k2] repeat [to] across to last 2 sts, k2
Row 6 – k4, k2tog, yo2, ssk, [p2, k2tog, yo2, ssk] repeat [to] across to last 4sts, k4
Row 7 – k4, [p2,ptbl, p1, k2] repeat [to] to last 2sts, k2
Row 8 – k8, [p2, k4] to last 4sts, k4
Repeat rows 5-8 until your work measures 5ins from cast on edge. Finish after completing a wrong side row. Take half of your sts (30sts) and place them on a separate needle. You can either Kitchener stitch your back with wrong sides together or 3 needle bind off with right sides together. Do whichever you prefer. Pick up 3sts along the front corner of your bonnet and work an i-cord for 12ins. Do the same on the opposite front corner. Weave in ends and block.
0-3 MONTHS
Cast on 66sts
Row 1-4 – k1p1 across
Row 5 (wrong side) – k4, [p4, k2] repeat [to] across to last 2 sts, k2
Row 6 – k4, k2tog, yo2, ssk, [p2, k2tog, yo2, ssk] repeat [to] across to last 4sts, k4
Row 7 – k4, [p2,ptbl, p1, k2] repeat [to] to last 2sts, k2
Row 8 – k8, [p2, k4] to last 4sts, k4
Repeat rows 5-8 until your work measures 5.5ins from cast on edge. Finish after completing a wrong side row.
Take half of your sts (33sts) and place them on a separate needle. You can either Kitchener stitch your back with wrong sides together or 3 needle bind off with right sides together. Do whichever you prefer.
Pick up 3sts along the front corner of your bonnet and work an i-cord for 12ins. Do the same on the opposite front corner. Weave in ends and block.
3-6 MONTHS
Cast on 72sts
Row 1-4 – k1p1 across
Row 5 (wrong side) – k4, [p4, k2] repeat [to] across to last 2 sts, k2
Row 6 – k4, k2tog, yo2, ssk, [p2, k2tog, yo2, ssk] repeat [to] across to last 4sts, k4
Row 7 – k4, [p2,ptbl, p1, k2] repeat [to] to last 2sts, k2
Row 8 – k8, [p2, k4] to last 4sts, k4
Repeat rows 5-8 until your work measures 6ins from cast on edge. Finish after completing a wrong side row.
Take half of your sts (36sts) and place them on a separate needle. You can either Kitchener stitch your back with wrong sides together or 3 needle bind off with right sides together. Do whichever you prefer.
Pick up 3sts along the front corner of your bonnet and work an i-cord for 12ins. Do the same on the opposite front corner. Weave in ends and block.
6-12 MONTHS
Cast on 78sts
Row 1-4 – k1p1 across
Row 5 (wrong side) – k4, [p4, k2] repeat [to] across to last 2 sts, k2
Row 6 – k4, k2tog, yo2, ssk, [p2, k2tog, yo2, ssk] repeat [to] across to last 4sts, k4
Row 7 – k4, [p2,ptbl, p1, k2] repeat [to] to last 2sts, k2
Row 8 – k8, [p2, k4] to last 4sts, k4
Repeat rows 5-8 until your work measures 6.5ins from cast on edge. Finish after
completing a wrong side row.
Take half of your sts (39sts) and place them on a separate needle. You can either Kitchener stitch your back with wrong sides together or 3 needle bind off with right sides together. Do whichever you prefer.
Pick up 3sts along the front corner of your bonnet and work an i-cord for 12ins. Do the same on the opposite front corner. Weave in ends and block.
TODDLER
Cast on 84sts
Row 1-4 – k1p1 across
Row 5 (wrong side) – k4, [p4, k2] repeat [to] across to last 2 sts, k2
Row 6 – k4, k2tog, yo2, ssk, [p2, k2tog, yo2, ssk] repeat [to] across to last 4sts, k4
Row 7 – k4, [p2,ptbl, p1, k2] repeat [to] to last 2sts, k2
Row 8 – k8, [p2, k4] to last 4sts, k4
Repeat rows 5-8 until your work measures 7ins from cast on edge. Finish after completing a wrong side row.
Take half of your sts (42sts) and place them on a separate needle. You can either Kitchener stitch your back with wrong sides together or 3 needle bind off with right sides together. Do whichever you prefer.
Pick up 3sts along the front corner of your bonnet and work an i-cord for 12ins. Do the same on the opposite front corner. Weave in ends and block.
CHILD
Cast on 90sts
Row 1-4 – k1p1 across
Row 5 (wrong side) – k4, [p4, k2] repeat [to] across to last 2 sts, k2
Row 6 – k4, k2tog, yo2, ssk, [p2, k2tog, yo2, ssk] repeat [to] across to last 4sts, k4
Row 7 – k4, [p2,ptbl, p1, k2] repeat [to] to last 2sts, k2
Row 8 – k8, [p2, k4] to last 4sts, k4
Repeat rows 5-8 until your work measures 7.5ins from cast on edge. Finish after completing a wrong side row.
Take half of your sts (45sts) and place them on a separate needle. You can either Kitchener stitch your back with wrong sides together or 3 needle bind off with right sides together. Do whichever you prefer.
Pick up 3sts along the front corner of your bonnet and work an i-cord for 12ins. Do the same on the opposite front corner. Weave in ends and block.
Abbreviations and tutorials
Stitch Key:
k – knit
p – purl
k2tog – knit 2 together
ssk – slip, slip, knit the slipped sts together
yo – yarn over st – stitch
yo2 – yarn over twice
ptbl – purl through back loop
I-cord Instructions – To make an i-cord cast on 3 sts on double pointed needles. Slide these sts to the right of your needle. Knit the row. Slide the sts to the right of the needle. Knit the row and slide the sts to the right of the needle. Continue in this manner until you reach your desired length, occasionally giving the resulting cord a gentle tug. Bind off and weave in ends.
Download Jewel Pixie Bonnet PDF
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