Find my favorite free knit bonnet patterns in today’s post! More free hat knitting patterns are waiting for you on my blog’s free hat pattern page!

My Favorite Free Knit Bonnet Patterns
If you’ve been hanging around here for any length of time, you know I’m a total sucker for a good bonnet. There’s just something about them—sweet, timeless, and oh-so-fun to knit! Today I’m sharing some of my very favorite free knit bonnet patterns with you. These are patterns I come back to again and again, whether I’m making baby gifts, photo props, or just because I need something soft and simple on my needles.
And good news — if you’re craving even more ideas, you’ll find lots of other free hat knitting patterns on my blog’s free hat pattern page! But for now, let’s dive right into these cozy and beautiful free knit bonnet patterns.
Vine Bonnet
The Vine Bonnet has been a crowd favorite since the moment I released it. It’s light, dainty, and the perfect mix of texture and simplicity. I used KnitPicks Capretta (Affiliate link) for this beauty, and let me just say: if you’ve never worked with Capretta before, you’re in for a treat. It’s soft, it’s luxurious, and it gives the Vine Bonnet that special feel that makes it perfect for a newborn gift or a little keepsake.
The lace design reminds me of winding vines in the springtime — hence the name! If you’re hunting for free knit bonnet patterns that are delicate but not fussy, the Vine Bonnet is a must-make.
Jewel Pixie Bonnet
Okay, if you like just a hint of pixie whimsy (without going full-on costume), the Jewel Pixie Bonnet is calling your name. I knit this one up with KnitPicks City Tweed DK (Affiliate link), which adds these tiny flecks of color throughout the fabric. It’s like tiny jewels sprinkled through your stitches.
This pattern is extra fun because the pixie shape gives it a little character, but it’s still super wearable. It’s one of my favorite free knit bonnet patterns to make when I want a quick knit that looks like it took way more effort than it actually did.
If you’ve never made a pixie-style bonnet before, the Jewel Pixie Bonnet is a perfect first choice!
👉 Jewel Pixie Bonnet Free Pattern
Wheat Bonnet
There’s just something about a clean, simple texture that wins every time. The Wheat Bonnet shows off that kind of classic texture so beautifully. I used KnitPicks Capretta (Affiliate link) again for this one — because let’s be real, once you fall in love with a yarn, it’s hard not to keep reaching for it!
The Wheat Bonnet has a beautiful grain-like pattern in lace. It’s soothing to knit and even more satisfying to finish. Plus, it’s one of those free knit bonnet patterns that’s easy enough for an adventurous beginner but interesting enough for more experienced knitters to enjoy, too.
This one also makes such a perfect neutral gift if you’re knitting ahead without knowing the baby’s gender!
Mary Pixie Bonnet
Now for something with a little bit of vintage magic—the Mary Pixie Bonnet! This one brings together two of my favorite things: texture and that irresistible pointy pixie shape. I knit mine with Berroco Vintage DK (Affiliate link), which is super soft and machine washable (because real life, right?).
The Mary Pixie Bonnet has a cute little lace stitch body and just the sweetest look when it’s worn. If you’ve been looking for free knit bonnet patterns that would fit right in with a Little House on the Prairie vibe, the Mary Pixie Bonnet is basically tailor-made for you.
It’s also a really quick knit, making it perfect for last-minute gifts (ask me how I know 😉).
👉 Mary Pixie Bonnet Free Pattern
Mini Bobble Bonnet
I am absolutely obsessed with the Mini Bobble Bonnet — tiny bobbles, tiny babies, what could be better? This pattern uses Hobbii Baby Cotton Organic Mercerized (Affiliate link), which has the perfect mix of softness and stitch definition. Every bobble just pops!
This is one of the more playful free knit bonnet patterns in my collection, and I adore how it gives a little texture without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s fun to knit. There’s something so satisfying about watching those tiny bobbles form row after row.
If you’re wanting a project that looks complicated but isn’t hard at all, you’ve got to give the Mini Bobble Bonnet a try!
👉 Mini Bobble Bonnet Free Pattern
Solstice Bonnet
Last but definitely not least: the Solstice Bonnet! If you’re in the mood for something soft, classic, and a little luxurious, this one’s going to be your favorite. I knit the Solstice Bonnet with KnitPicks Capra (Affiliate link), and it’s every bit as cozy as it sounds.
The Solstice Bonnet has a timeless look—simple stockinette paired with an elegant shaping that makes it fit beautifully. It’s one of those free knit bonnet patterns that you’ll want to make in every color. It’s such a good basic that dresses up or down depending on the yarn and color you choose.
If you’re hunting for a go-to, works-for-every-baby bonnet pattern, Solstice is it. I’ve made so many of these for gifts!
👉 Solstice Bonnet Free Pattern
Why I Love Knitting Free Knit Bonnet Patterns
There’s a reason I come back to these free knit bonnet patterns over and over again. First, they’re quick wins! Sometimes you just need a project that’s going to finish up fast and give you that happy, accomplished feeling. Bonnet patterns are perfect for that.
Second, they make the best gifts. Whether it’s for a baby shower, a first birthday, or just a special treat for a new little one, there’s nothing like a hand-knit bonnet. And when you can choose from beautiful free knit bonnet patterns, it makes it even sweeter.
Lastly — and maybe most importantly — they’re just fun! Each of these patterns has its own little personality, whether it’s the whimsy of a pixie bonnet or the classic charm of a simple stockinette stitch.
Tips for Knitting Free Knit Bonnet Patterns
- Use Soft Yarns: Always choose something soft and gentle, especially if it’s going to be worn by a baby. (Bonus points if it’s machine washable!)
- Play with Color: Don’t be afraid to have fun with color! Bonnets are small projects, so it’s a great time to try a new shade.
- Check Your Gauge: Especially if you’re making a gift! You want that perfect comfy fit.
- Block It: A quick block can make your finished bonnet look so much more polished. Totally worth the few extra minutes!
Find Even More Free Knit Bonnet Patterns
These are just a few of my favorite free knit bonnet patterns, but there are so many more to love. If you’re ready to dive even deeper into cozy, cute knitting projects, don’t forget to check out my free hat knitting pattern page on the blog. You’ll find all kinds of ideas there to keep your needles busy and your heart happy.
Whether you’re knitting for gifts, for keeps, or just because you can’t resist the cuteness, free knit bonnet patterns are always a good idea.
I’d Love to Hear from You!
What’s your favorite kind of bonnet to knit? Do you love the classic shapes or are you more into the pixie styles? Let’s chat in the comments below — I’d love to hear which free knit bonnet patterns you’ll be trying next!
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