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Embracing the Summer Sun: The Solstice Bonnet with KnitPicks Capra
Hello, lovely readers! Today, I’m beyond excited to share with you one of my favorite knitting projects: the Solstice Bonnet. This baby bonnet, adorned with a charming diamond motif, is not only an absolute joy to knit but also a beautiful piece that will keep your little one cozy and stylish. And the best part? I’m sharing the pattern with you for free!
A Labor of Love: Choosing the Perfect Yarn
When it comes to baby knits, I’m always on the lookout for yarn that is not only soft and comfortable but also durable and easy to care for. For the Solstice Bonnet, I chose one of my all-time favorite yarns: KnitPicks Capra. This delightful DK weight yarn is a luxurious blend of merino and cashmere, making it incredibly soft and warm—perfect for a delicate baby’s skin. You can purchase this yarn here.
KnitPicks Capra comes in a stunning array of colors, so you can truly make this bonnet your own. Whether you prefer soft pastels or vibrant hues, there’s a shade for every taste. For this pattern, I chose a lovely shade of neutrals, which gives the bonnet a sweet, summery feel, perfectly suited for the solstice theme.
The Inspiration Behind the Solstice Bonnet
The inspiration for the Solstice Bonnet came from a desire to create something that captured the essence of summer. I envisioned a piece that was light and airy yet had a sense of timeless elegance. The diamond motif, which is the focal point of the bonnet, represents the sparkling facets of sunlight on a warm summer day. This motif is both classic and modern, making it a perfect accessory for any baby.
My Knitting Journey with the Solstice Bonnet
Knitting the Solstice Bonnet has been such a delightful experience. The pattern is engaging, with just enough complexity to keep things interesting without being overwhelming. The diamond motif adds a touch of elegance, making this bonnet a standout piece. And, of course, working with KnitPicks Capra is always a pleasure. The yarn’s softness and sheen truly elevate the finished piece.
As I worked on this bonnet, I found myself thinking about the babies who would wear it, the families who would cherish it, and the memories it would be part of. Knitting, for me, is not just about creating something beautiful but also about infusing each stitch with love and intention.
Tips for a Perfect Finish
- Blocking: To give your bonnet a polished look, gently block it to the specified measurements. This will help even out the stitches and enhance the diamond motif.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the pattern to suit your preferences. You can adjust the length of the ribbing, add a decorative border, or use a contrasting color for the ties.
Why I Love KnitPicks Capra
KnitPicks Capra has been a staple in my knitting stash for years. The merino-cashmere blend is incredibly soft and has a beautiful drape, making it perfect for baby knits. It’s also wonderfully warm without being too heavy, which is ideal for a versatile piece like the Solstice Bonnet.
One of the things I love most about Capra is how well it holds up over time. Even after multiple and washes, it maintains its softness and shape, which is crucial for baby items that see a lot of wear and tear. Plus, the range of colors means there’s always something to suit my mood or the season. You can purchase the yarn for this project here.
The Joy of Sharing Free Patterns
Sharing free knitting patterns is one of the ways I love to give back to the knitting community. There’s something incredibly rewarding about knowing that people all over the world are enjoying a pattern I created. It’s a way of connecting with fellow knitters and spreading a little bit of joy and creativity.
When I first started knitting, I relied heavily on free patterns to learn and grow my skills. Now, I’m thrilled to be in a position where I can offer that same support to others. The Solstice Bonnet is a pattern I’m particularly proud of, and I can’t wait to see all the beautiful variations that you’ll create.
Share Your Creations
I would love to see your versions of the Solstice Bonnet! Please share your finished projects on social media using the hashtag #SolsticeBonnet. It’s always so inspiring to see the beautiful variations and unique touches that each knitter brings to the pattern.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining me on this knitting adventure. The Solstice Bonnet is a project that’s close to my heart, and I’m so happy to share it with you. Whether you’re knitting it for your own little one, as a gift, or just because you love the pattern, I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did.
Happy knitting, and here’s to many sunny, joyful days ahead!
Materials and Info
Materials: appx 60-120yd dk weight yarn (I used knitpicks capra), size 6 (4mm) straight needles and double pointed needles (or size needed to obtain gauge), 4mm crochet hook for provisional cast on
Gauge: appx 5sts/inch Gauge is very important!
Size (appx finished head circumference) : newborn (13ins)
Notes: In this pattern there is a provisional cast on and an Icord bind off.
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.
Solstice Bonnet Pattern
Cast on 57 using a provisional cast on on scrap yarn.
Row 1 – with your main color, purl across
Row 2 (right side) – Knit across
Row 3 – purl across
The Diamonds start now. If you would like a chart there is one on the last page.
Row 4 – k2 [k8, p1, k9] repeat [to] across to last st, k1
Row 5 – P2 [p7, k3, p8] repeat [to] across to last st, p1
Row 6 – k2 [k6, p2, k1, p2, k7] repeat [to] across to last st, k1
Row 7 – p2 [p5, k2, p3, k2, p6] repeat [to] across to last st, p1
Row 8 – k2 [k4, p2, k2, p1, k2, p2, k5] repeat [to] across to last st, k1
Row 9 – p2 [p3, k2, p2, k1, p1, k1, p2, k2, p4] repeat [to] across to last st, p1
Row 10 – k2 [k2, p2, k2, (p1,k1) twice, p1, k2, p2, k3] repeat [to] across to last st, k1
Row 11 – p2 [p1, k2, p2, (k1,p1)3 times, k1, p2, k2, p2] repeat [to] across to last st, p1
Row 12 – k2 [p2, k2, (p1, k1) 4 times, p1, k2, p2, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1
Row 13 – p1, k1 [k1, p2, (k1, p1) 5 times, k1, p2, k2] repeat [to] across to last st, p1
Row 14 – repeat row 12
Row 15 – repeat row 11
Row 16 – repeat row 10
Row 17 – repeat row 9
Row 18 – repeat row 8
Row 19 – repeat row 7
Row 20 – repeat row 6
Row 21 – repeat row 5
Row 22 – repeat row 4
Work in stockinette st starting by working a wrong side (purl) row until your work measures 4ins from cast on edge. End after completing a right side (knit) row.
DECREASES
Row 1 – p54, p2tog, p1 (56sts) Place stitch markers on both ends of this row.
Row 2 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (47sts)
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (38sts)
Row 5 – purl across
Row 6 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (29sts)
Row 7 – purl across
Row 8 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (20sts)
Row 9 – purl across
Row 10 – k1 [k2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (11sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the back tight. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cast on 3sts on double pointed needles and work appx 8ins of i-cord. Place all of the provisional cast on sts on your straight needle (I like to use a circular needle for this but straight will do) and begin i-cord bind off using the 8ins of i-cord you have already worked. Once all of the bonnet sts have been bound off work an additional 8ins of icord with your 3 left over icord sts. Weave in ends.
Option 2
Another option is to do color work with this bonnet. To do so, knit the purls on the right side with a contrasting color and purl the knits on the wrong side with a contrasting color like the pictured bonnet below. There is also a chart included on the last page. I would suggest doing the color work portion in one needle size up to keep it stretchy.