These pixie bonnet knitting patterns are some of my absolute favorites! Find even more free bonnet patterns on my blog here.
There’s just something so fun and adorable about a pixie bonnet. That sweet little point at the back, the snug little fit, the way it frames a baby’s face—it’s downright adorable. I’ve knit a lot of bonnets in my time, but pixie bonnet knitting patterns have a special place in my heart.
Whether you love a clean, classic style or something with a bit of texture and whimsy, these pixie bonnet knitting patterns are easy to love and even easier to knit. And today, I’m sharing a handful of my absolute favorites that you can cast on for free. All of these are newborn photo prop patterns that are also perfect for gifting or everyday use, and every single one brings something a little unique to the table.
So if you’ve been on the hunt for pixie bonnet knitting patterns that are simple, fun, and full of charm, you’re in for a treat!
1. Mary Pixie Bonnet
The Mary Pixie Bonnet is a soft, stretchy, and slightly vintage-feeling pixie bonnet that has a lovely and simple lace stitch pattern. It features a butterfly like lace on the body of the bonnet and a sweet point in the back that gives it that classic pixie look without being overly dramatic.
I used Berroco Vintage DK (affiliate link) for this one, which is a super soft and affordable blend of wool and acrylic that washes up beautifully. I love how squishy and cozy the finished bonnet feels—it’s thick enough for warmth but still flexible and comfy for tiny heads.
If you’re looking for pixie bonnet knitting patterns that knit up quickly but still look polished and professional, the Mary Pixie Bonnet might just be the one.
👉 Mary Pixie Bonnet Free Pattern
2. Bethany Pixie Bonnet
The Bethany Pixie Bonnet has an elegant simplicity to it. It’s a bit lighter and breezier than some of the others, which makes it a perfect choice for warmer-weather photo shoots or babies who run a little warm.
I knit this one in Hobbii Rainbow Bamboo (affiliate link), which has a silky smooth texture and just the right amount of drape. It gives the bonnet a gentle sheen and an ultra-soft finish that feels lovely against the skin.
Pixie bonnet knitting patterns like this one are a dream when you want something lightweight but still beautifully shaped. It’s a perfect lace pixie pattern if you’re looking for something fancy or just want something with a little more of a challenge to work on.
👉 Bethany Pixie Bonnet Free Pattern
3. Cable Hood Bonnet
If you like your pixie bonnet knitting patterns with a little more texture, the Cable Hood Bonnet is the one for you. This bonnet features bold cables down the center of the top of the bonnet. It still has the pixie point at the back, but with more coverage and drama.
For this one, I went with KnitPicks Reverie (affiliate link), a lofty, fuzzy yarn that gives the whole piece a gentle halo. It makes the cables look extra plush and adds just a touch of luxury. I’m obsessed.
On the flip side, Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link) is a great budget-friendly option with tons of color choices. It’s an acrylic-nylon blend that still gives you that same softness and fluffiness without the higher price point. Win-win.
Out of all my pixie bonnet knitting patterns, this one might be the most “wow” visually. It looks fancy, but it’s still beginner-friendly if you’ve tackled a cable or two before. And that fluff factor? It’s next level.
👉 Cable Hood Bonnet Free Pattern
4. Jewel Pixie Bonnet
There’s something so charming about tweed yarn, and the Jewel Pixie Bonnet makes the most of that rustic charm. This pixie bonnet has a bit more shaping along the neck and face, making it a perfect snug fit for newborns.
I used KnitPicks City Tweed DK (affiliate link) for this design, which adds those cute little flecks of color that make the bonnet look timeless and handspun. The result is a bonnet that feels heirloom-worthy but is still quick to knit.
Pixie bonnet knitting patterns like this one are great when you want a little texture and interest without needing to do any complicated stitch work. The yarn does all the heavy lifting, and I’m not mad about it.
👉 Jewel Pixie Bonnet Free Pattern
5. Simple Knit Hood
For those days when your brain just wants a peaceful knit and your hands want to keep busy, the Simple Knit Hood is a perfect go-to. It’s one of the most straightforward pixie bonnet knitting patterns I’ve designed, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring!
This one is worked up in KnitPicks Wool of the Andes (affiliate link), a classic, sturdy wool that holds its shape beautifully. It makes the pixie point nice and crisp, which I love for a clean silhouette in photos.
Sometimes, the simplest patterns are the ones I come back to again and again. If you want a no-fuss bonnet that still looks picture-perfect, this one fits the bill.
👉 Simple Knit Hood Free Pattern
6. Broken Rib Pixie Bonnet
Last but not least, the Broken Rib Pixie Bonnet has a little more texture going on. I adore broken rib stitch—it’s just enough pattern to keep you engaged without feeling like you need to stare at the instructions the whole time.
This one is knit using KnitPicks Muse (affiliate link), a hand-painted yarn with stunning color shifts and gorgeous vibrancy. It adds a subtle variation to the ribbing that makes each bonnet look slightly different, even if you use the same colorway.
If you love pixie bonnet knitting patterns that let your yarn do the talking, this is your moment. It’s one of those patterns that never gets old because the yarn brings something new every time.
👉 Broken Rib Pixie Bonnet Free Pattern
Why I Love Pixie Bonnet Knitting Patterns
Let’s be honest—there’s no shortage of baby bonnet patterns out there. But pixie bonnet knitting patterns stand out because they strike that sweet spot between playful and classic. The pointed back gives them that storybook charm, while the variety of textures and yarns you can use makes them endlessly customizable.
Whether I’m looking to use up a bit of luxury yarn, create a timeless baby shower gift, or whip up some props for a newborn photo shoot, pixie bonnet knitting patterns never disappoint.
Another reason I keep coming back to these styles is how easily they can be adapted. Add a ribbed brim, work in a stripe, or use a textured yarn to make each one unique. And since they’re small projects, they’re perfect for experimenting.
Tips for Knitting the Perfect Pixie Bonnet
- Check your gauge, especially when using textured or specialty yarns. A bonnet that’s too small won’t stretch enough, and one that’s too big might fall off.
- Use soft yarns that are comfortable against baby’s skin. I’ve linked my favorite yarns above, but anything labeled soft or baby-friendly is a good place to start.
- Block your bonnets! This makes a huge difference in how crisp the point looks and how neatly the ties lay.
- Play with your cast-ons and edges. A picot edge or an I-cord bind-off can really elevate a simple design.
- Knit more than one. Trust me—once you knit one, you’re going to want to try them all!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ve found a new favorite (or three) from this list of pixie bonnet knitting patterns! Each one holds a special place in my designer heart, and I love how different they all feel, even with the same general shape.
If you’ve knit any of these already, I’d love to hear what yarn you used and how it turned out! Or if you’re planning to cast one on soon, let me know which one caught your eye. I always love seeing your projects and hearing your thoughts.
Have a favorite pixie bonnet pattern I didn’t mention here? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking for new ones to try!
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