Looking for free baby bonnet knitting patterns in fingering weight yarn? Find them all on my bonnet knitting pattern page!
There’s something about a sweet little baby bonnet that just pulls at my heartstrings—especially when it’s knit in delicate fingering weight yarn. I love the way lighter yarns drape and stretch, making for a cozy yet breathable fit that’s perfect for newborns. Today I’m sharing six of my favorite free baby bonnet knitting patterns that are all written for fingering weight yarn—and better yet, they’re all available for free right here on my blog!
Each of these designs features KnitPicks Capretta yarn (affiliate link), one of my absolute favorite yarns to use when I want a soft and luxurious feel without sacrificing durability. And since all of these are free baby bonnet knitting patterns, you can try them out without spending anything on the pattern itself.
So grab your needles (and maybe a cup of coffee), and let’s take a tour of six beautiful bonnets that I think you’ll love just as much as I do.
1. The Annabelle Bonnet
If you love classic baby style with a little extra charm, the Annabelle Bonnet is going to be your new favorite. This design features soft lacy leaves that give the bonnet just enough visual interest while keeping the look timeless and sweet.
I knit the Annabelle Bonnet in KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link), and let me tell you—it’s dreamy to work with. The blend of merino, cashmere, and nylon creates a light fabric with a gentle halo, which makes it perfect for baby’s sensitive skin.
This is one of those free baby bonnet knitting patterns that looks much harder than it really is. The stitches are simpler than they appear, making it a great project to work on if you want something fancy without being to difficult.
If you’ve never knit a bonnet before, this is a lovely place to start. And if you’re a seasoned baby-knit enthusiast? You’ll enjoy this one just as much.
👉 Annabelle Bonnet Free Pattern
2. The Cadwyn Bonnet
Lace lovers, this one’s for you. The Cadwyn Bonnet is light, airy, and full of delicate detail. Cadwyn means little warrior. I made this bonnet for my little nicu warrior (pictured above). Making her things always resulted in names that were powerful but subtle. Just like this bonnet. The simple knit purl stitches create this powerful almost chain but also very subtle to not take away from the squishy bundle of cuteness wearing the bonnet.
I used KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link) again for this one because its smooth stitch definition and slight fuzz make the lace pop beautifully. The bonnet ties under the chin for a snug, secure fit and works beautifully as a baby shower gift or photo prop.
This is one of my most popular free baby bonnet knitting patterns, and it’s easy to see why. There’s just something special about a bit of lace on a tiny head that makes you go, “awww.”
If you’re comfortable with yarn overs and basic decreases, you’ll fly through this pattern. And even if you’re still a lace beginner, the instructions are clear and beginner-friendly.
3. The Chain Bonnet
The Chain Bonnet holds a special place in my heart because it features the same MCDD stitch used in my Chain Socks and other coordinating patterns. There’s a lovely geometric quality to the stitchwork, with the center panel looking almost like interlocking links—a striking but subtle texture that works well in fingering weight yarn.
KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link) was the perfect yarn choice here again. It allows those details to show up clearly, while keeping the bonnet soft and stretchy enough for even the tiniest baby heads.
This is one of those free baby bonnet knitting patterns that makes people ask, “Where did you buy that?”—and then you get to smile and say, “I made it!”
The Chain Bonnet is especially fun if you like rhythmic, textured stitches that look impressive but don’t require tons of focus. Bonus: you can match it with the Chain Beanie or Chain Socks for a complete set!
4. The Gathering Bonnet
I designed the Gathering Bonnet as a gentle nod to the feeling of being drawn in—just like how motherhood gathers us up into something new and beautiful. This bonnet features an organic, rippling texture that starts at the brim and subtly pulls inward as you knit.
I used—you guessed it—KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link), and the result is so soft and stretchy. This yarn has the elasticity you want for a bonnet that needs to hug a baby’s head without slipping off.
Among my free baby bonnet knitting patterns, this one is a favorite for gifts. It has a handspun charm that makes it feel both rustic and refined. It’s especially lovely in pale pastels or soft earth tones.
If you’ve knit stockinette and garter before, you’re more than ready for this one. And once it’s off your needles, you’ll want to knit it again in another color!
👉 Gathering Bonnet Free Pattern
5. The Wheat Bonnet
Inspired by one of my most popular stitches, the Wheat Bonnet features a simple wheat motif panel across the front that reminds me of harvest and warmth and family. It’s minimal but meaningful, and it works so well in the lighter weight of fingering yarn.
KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link) helped give the motif beautiful stitch definition while still keeping the overall look delicate. It blocks out to perfection and has a bit of drape that makes the bonnet feel buttery soft.
If you’re looking for free baby bonnet knitting patterns with just a little something extra, this one’s it. It’s easy to pair with plain outfits, or you can knit it in a bright color to make it pop.
This is one of those patterns that knitters of all skill levels enjoy. The motif keeps things interesting, but it’s not difficult or fussy. Just enough to keep your hands happy.
6. The Vine Bonnet
Last but not least is the Vine Bonnet, which winds tiny twisted looking stitches into soft, climbing trails across the fabric. It’s sweet, it’s organic, and it has a fairy-tale kind of elegance (minus any whimsical language—you know me!).
Once again, I used KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link), and I love how the subtle texture comes to life in this yarn. The little vines create a lovely stretch and structure while the background stockinette keeps the bonnet light and wearable.
Of all my free baby bonnet knitting patterns, this one might be my favorite to photograph. The texture really stands out in photos, especially when paired with soft lighting or gentle outdoor settings.
This bonnet is ideal for knitters who love a clean, elegant look with just a little decorative flair. You’ll be surprised how quickly it works up—and how many compliments you’ll get!
Why Fingering Weight for Baby Bonnets?
If you’ve ever wondered why I lean toward fingering yarn in many of my free baby bonnet knitting patterns, it’s because the lighter fabric is gentler on newborn skin. It’s also easier to layer without overheating baby, and it gives you beautiful detail without bulk.
All six of these free baby bonnet knitting patterns use fingering yarn in a way that really highlights the textures and shapes of each design. The result is a collection of bonnets that are soft, stretchy, stylish, and totally practical.
Plus, let’s be honest—fingering weight means you can fit more bonnets in your project bag. And who doesn’t love that?
Ready to Cast On?
Each of these free baby bonnet knitting patterns is ready for you to download and knit today. Whether you’re working on a baby gift, stocking up for photo props, or just love a sweet bonnet project, I hope you’ve found something here that inspires you.
Let me know in the comments below which one you’ll be casting on first—or if you’ve already knit one of these bonnets, I’d love to hear what you thought! Did you change the yarn or add your own twist? Let’s chat!
And don’t forget to bookmark my bonnet knitting pattern page to keep exploring even more free baby bonnet knitting patterns in every weight, texture, and style.
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