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As a knitter, one of my greatest joys is creating delicate and meaningful pieces for newborns. There’s something truly special about crafting an item that will be part of a baby’s earliest moments, capturing the essence of innocence and new beginnings. Today, I’m excited to share with you my latest creation—the Babel Bonnet, a sweet and unisex newborn photo prop that combines tradition with modern trends in the most delightful way.
When I first conceived the idea for the Babel Bonnet, I knew I wanted to create a piece that would be versatile enough for both boys and girls. As a mom of eight, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of having go-to items that can be passed down from one child to the next, regardless of gender. The Babel Bonnet fits this need perfectly. Its geometric lace pattern is both intricate and charming, making it suitable for any little one.
The Yarn: KnitPicks Aloft
Choosing the right yarn was crucial for this project. I wanted something that would feel soft against a newborn’s delicate skin while also providing a luxurious look for those all-important first photos. KnitPicks Aloft turned out to be the perfect choice. This yarn is a blend of super kid mohair and silk, which gives it a beautiful sheen and an incredibly soft texture. The mohair adds a touch of fluffiness, making the bonnet look even more adorable.
KnitPicks Aloft is available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the perfect shade to match your newborn’s nursery or the theme of your photoshoot. For my sample, I opted for a soft, neutral tone that complements any outfit and setting. The subtlety of the color allows the lace pattern to take center stage, highlighting the intricate details without overwhelming the overall look.
The Design: Geometric Lace for a Modern Twist
One of the standout features of the Babel Bonnet is its geometric lace pattern. When designing this piece, I wanted to incorporate a lace motif that was both traditional and trendy. The geometric shapes add a modern twist to the classic lace bonnet, making it a stylish choice for today’s parents who appreciate both tradition and contemporary aesthetics.
The lace pattern is carefully designed to be gender-neutral. Its clean lines and structured shapes are perfect for boys and girls alike, proving that lace isn’t just for frills and florals. This pattern is knit flat, which makes it a great project for knitters of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking for a new challenge, you’ll find joy in watching the lacework come to life as you knit.
Knitting the Babel Bonnet: A Labor of Love
Knitting the Babel Bonnet was a true labor of love. The process is meditative, with each stitch contributing to the beautiful final product. The yarn glides smoothly on the needles, making it a pleasure to work with. I used a pair of straight needles for this project, which is my preferred method for knitting flat pieces.
The bonnet is constructed by knitting the main body flat and then seaming the back to form the rounded shape. This method ensures a snug fit for the baby’s head, keeping them cozy and comfortable. The lace pattern, though intricate, is easy to follow once you get into the rhythm. I found myself looking forward to each knitting session, eager to see the lace pattern develop row by row.
A Versatile Photo Prop
One of the things I love most about the Babel Bonnet is its versatility as a photo prop. Newborn photography has become an art form, with parents cherishing those early days through beautifully staged photoshoots. The Babel Bonnet adds a touch of elegance to any photoshoot, whether it’s a simple at-home session or a professional studio setup.
The bonnet pairs beautifully with a variety of outfits, from simple onesies to elaborate handmade ensembles. Its neutral design allows it to complement different themes and color schemes, making it a staple accessory in any newborn photographer’s collection. I’ve even had friends and family borrow the bonnet for their own baby photoshoots, and it’s always a hit.
Sharing the Joy of Knitting
As much as I enjoy knitting for my own family, one of the greatest rewards is sharing my creations with others. I’ve been blessed to connect with a wonderful community of knitters who share my passion for creating beautiful, meaningful pieces. The Babel Bonnet is a pattern that I’m proud to share, knowing that it will bring joy to both the knitters who make it and the families who receive it.
If you’re looking for a new project that combines the best of traditional and modern design, I encourage you to try the Babel Bonnet. The geometric lace pattern is both challenging and rewarding, and the finished bonnet is a testament to the love and care that goes into every stitch. Plus, the softness of the KnitPicks Aloft yarn makes it a joy to knit and a treasure to keep.
Final Thoughts
The Babel Bonnet holds a special place in my heart. It’s more than just a knitting pattern; it’s a symbol of the love and creativity that goes into welcoming a new life into the world. Whether you’re an experienced knitter or just starting out, I hope you’ll find as much joy in making this bonnet as I did.
Thank you for joining me on this knitting journey. I look forward to seeing your own versions of the Babel Bonnet and hearing about the special moments it will be a part of. Happy knitting!
This blog post not only shares the story behind the Babel Bonnet but also highlights the joy of knitting for newborns and the beauty of combining traditional and trendy design elements. The use of KnitPicks Aloft yarn ensures that the bonnet is as soft and sweet as the little ones who will wear it. I hope this post inspires you to pick up your needles and create your own Babel Bonnet, a timeless piece that will be cherished for years to come.
Materials and Info
Materials: Knit Picks Aloft (lace weight – 0), size 7 (4.5mm) straight needles, yarn needle, stitch markers
Gauge: 4.5sts x 8r per in ~GAUGE IS VERY IMPORTANT~
Stitch Key:
K – knit
P – purl
yo – yarn over
k2tog – knit 2 together
vdd – vertical double decrease – Insert right needle through the first 2 sts on the left needle as if to knit and slip both together to the right hand needle. Knit the next stitch. Insert the left hand needle through the front of the 2 slipped stitches and pull the slipped stitches over the knitted stitch.
Head circumference: nb (13ins). 0-3mths (14ins), 3-6mth (15ins), 6- 12mths (16ins)
Babel Bonnet Pattern
NEWBORN
Cast on 51sts.
Row 1 – purl across
Row 2 – knit across
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k2 [yo, vdd, yo, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1
Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures appx 3.75ins from cast on edge ending after completing a wrong side (purl) row.
DECREASES
Place one stitch marker on either end of the row just completed.
Row 1 – k1 [k2tog, k5] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1(44sts)
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (37sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (30sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (23sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (16sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11 – p1 [p2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, p1 (9sts)
Do not bind off.
Cut yarn leaving appx 12ins and pull through remaining stitches. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold 3 in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop. Repeat on the other front corner. Braid ends. OR cut 2 pieces appx 30-36ins long, fold 1 piece through as above. Using a crochet hook (I use a size d for this), slip stitch until your ties are appx 8-10ins long.
0-3 MONTHS
Cast on 55sts.
Row 1 – purl across
Row 2 – knit across
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k2 [yo, vdd, yo, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1
Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures appx 4.25ins from cast on edge ending after completing a right side (knit) row.
DECREASES
Set up row – p12, p2tog, p11, p2tog, p12, p2tog, p11, p2tog, p1 (51sts)
Place one stitch marker on either end of the row just completed.
Row 1 – k1 [k2tog, k5] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1(44sts)
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (37sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (30sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (23sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (16sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11 – p1 [p2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, p1 (9sts)
Do not bind off.
Cut yarn leaving appx 12ins and pull through remaining stitches. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold 3 in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop. Repeat on the other front corner. Braid ends. OR cut 2 pieces appx 30-36ins long, fold 1 piece through as above. Using a crochet hook (I use a size d for this), slip stitch until your ties are appx 8-10ins long.
3-6 MONTHS
Cast on 59sts.
Row 1 – purl across
Row 2 – knit across
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k2 [yo, vdd, yo, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1
Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures appx 4.75ins from cast on edge ending after completing a right side (knit) row.
DECREASES
Set up row 1 – p56, p2tog, p1 (58sts)
Place one stitch marker on either end of the row just completed.
Row 1 – k1 [k2tog, k5] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1(50sts)
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (42sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (34sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (26sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (18sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11 – p1 [p2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, p1 (10sts)
Do not bind off.
Cut yarn leaving appx 12ins and pull through remaining stitches. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold 3 in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop. Repeat on the other front corner. Braid ends. OR cut 2 pieces appx 30-36ins long, fold 1 piece through as above. Using a crochet hook (I use a size d for this), slip stitch until your ties are appx 8-10ins long.
6-12 MONTHS
Cast on 65sts.
Row 1 – purl across
Row 2 – knit across
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k3 [yo, vdd, yo, k1] repeat [to] across to last 2sts, k2
Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures appx 5.5ins from cast on edge ending after completing a wrong side (purl) row.
DECREASES
Place one stitch marker on either end of the row just completed.
Row 1 – k1 [k2tog, k5] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1(56sts)
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (47sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (38sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (29sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last sts, k1 (20sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11 – p1 [p2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, p1 (11sts)
Do not bind off.
Cut yarn leaving appx 12ins and pull through remaining stitches. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold 3 in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop. Repeat on the other front corner. Braid ends. OR cut 2 pieces appx 30-36ins long, fold 1 piece through as above. Using a crochet hook (I use a size d for this), slip stitch until your ties are appx 8-10ins long.
Babel Bonnet PDF
