Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Hello, fellow knitting enthusiasts! Today, I am excited to share a delightful project that has been a favorite in my knitting repertoire: the Cable Hood, a charming newborn photo prop. This pixie-style bonnet features a classic cable running down the top middle, adding an elegant touch to this cozy accessory. Whether you’re an experienced knitter or just getting started, this project is both manageable and rewarding. For this bonnet, I used either KnitPicks Reverie or Hobbii Fluffy Day yarns, both of which provide a wonderfully soft and fluffy texture perfect for newborns.
The Inspiration Behind the Cable Hood
Every knitting project I embark on begins with inspiration. For the Cable Hood, I was inspired by the timeless appeal of cables and the whimsical charm of pixie-style bonnets. Cables add a sophisticated element to any knit piece, and I wanted to create something that combined this classic technique with the softness and simplicity of a newborn bonnet. The result is a bonnet that is both elegant and functional, perfect for capturing those precious first moments.
Choosing the Right Yarn: KnitPicks Reverie vs. Hobbii Fluffy Day
Selecting the right yarn is crucial for any knitting project, and for the Cable Hood, I had two excellent options: KnitPicks Reverie and Hobbii Fluffy Day.
KnitPicks Reverie is a luxurious blend of baby alpaca and acrylic, offering a cloud-like softness that is gentle against a newborn’s delicate skin. Its light, airy texture makes it perfect for creating a bonnet that is warm yet breathable. The subtle halo of the yarn gives the finished bonnet a dreamy, ethereal quality, ideal for newborn photography.
Hobbii Fluffy Day is another fantastic choice, made from a mix of acrylic and nylon. This yarn is incredibly soft and fluffy, providing a similar gentle feel to KnitPicks Reverie. The slightly more affordable price point makes it an attractive option for knitters who want to create beautiful pieces without breaking the bank. Plus, Hobbii Fluffy Day comes in a wide range of colors, allowing for plenty of creative freedom.
Knitting the Cable Hood: A Step-by-Step Journey
As I embarked on knitting the Cable Hood, I found the process both meditative and fulfilling. Here’s a glimpse into my journey of creating this charming bonnet.
Gathering Supplies
Before diving into the knitting, I made sure I had all my supplies ready. Here’s what I used:
- Yarn: Either KnitPicks Reverie or Hobbii Fluffy Day, about 100 grams.
- Needles: A pair of US size 6 (4.0 mm) knitting needles.
- Cable needle: For the central cable.
- Stitch markers: To keep track of the different sections.
- Tapestry needle: For weaving in the ends.
Casting On and Ribbing
I began by casting on the required number of stitches, ensuring the bonnet would fit snugly around a newborn’s head. The ribbing at the edge of the bonnet provides a nice stretch, helping it stay in place. Working in a simple 1×1 ribbing pattern, I enjoyed the rhythmic back-and-forth motion, knowing it was setting the foundation for the bonnet’s structure.
Creating the Central Cable
The highlight of this bonnet is undoubtedly the central cable running down the top middle. To achieve this, I carefully followed the cable chart, using a cable needle to hold the stitches as I crossed them over. Watching the cable take shape was incredibly satisfying. It’s a relatively simple cable, but it adds such a beautiful detail to the bonnet.
Shaping the Pixie Point
Once the cable section was complete, it was time to shape the pixie point. This part of the bonnet gives it that whimsical, fairy-tale look. Using a series of decreases, I gradually reduced the number of stitches until only a few remained, forming the point of the bonnet. It was important to keep the decreases neat and even to ensure a smooth, professional finish.
Finishing Touches
With the knitting complete, I sewed the back seam using the mattress stitch. This technique creates an almost invisible seam, which is perfect for a delicate project like this. Finally, I wove in all the loose ends, giving the bonnet a tidy look.
The Joy of Newborn Photography Props
One of the most rewarding aspects of creating the Cable Hood is seeing it in use. There’s something magical about photographing newborns, and having a handmade prop adds a personal, heartfelt touch to those precious photos. The soft, fluffy yarn and the delicate cable detail make the bonnet a perfect accessory for capturing those early moments.
Sharing the Craft
Knitting is not just a hobby; it’s a way of connecting with others. I love sharing my creations with fellow knitters, friends, and family. When I gift a Cable Hood to a new mom, I know I’m giving something made with love and care. It’s a way of welcoming a new life into the world with a cozy, handmade hug.
Tips for Knitting Newborn Photo Props
If you’re inspired to create your own Cable Hood or other newborn photo props, here are a few tips:
- Choose Soft, Baby-Friendly Yarn: Always opt for yarns that are gentle on a newborn’s skin. Both KnitPicks Reverie and Hobbii Fluffy Day are excellent choices.
- Pay Attention to Size: Ensure your bonnet fits snugly but comfortably. Newborns grow quickly, so it’s essential to strike a balance between fit and room for growth.
- Practice Your Cables: If you’re new to cabling, practice on a swatch before starting your project. It’s a skill worth mastering, and it adds so much to your finished piece.
- Keep It Simple: While intricate patterns can be beautiful, simple designs often work best for newborn props. They highlight the baby’s features without overwhelming them.
- Enjoy the Process: Knitting is as much about the journey as it is about the finished product. Take your time, enjoy the process, and know that you’re creating something special.
Conclusion
Knitting the Cable Hood has been a delightful experience, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. This simple yet elegant pixie-style bonnet, with its central cable and fluffy yarn, is a perfect newborn photo prop. Whether you choose KnitPicks Reverie or Hobbii Fluffy Day, you’re sure to create a piece that is both beautiful and meaningful.
Happy knitting, and may your creations bring joy to you and those you share them with! If you decide to make the Cable Hood, I’d love to see your finished projects. Feel free to share your photos and experiences in the comments below.
Until next time, keep those needles busy and your heart full of creativity!
Materials and Info
Materials – 60-125yds of worsted weight (4) yarn (I used KnitPicks Reverie), size 8 (5mm) straight needles and 1 spare in the same size for bind off.
Gauge – 4sts/inch *Gauge is very important!*
Sizes (appx head circumference) – newborn (13in), 0-3mth (14in), 3-6mth (15in), 6-12mth (16in)
Three needle bind-off: With right sides together, separate your work evenly onto 2 needles, hold the two pieces of knitting together with the points facing to the right. Insert the third needle into the first stitch on each of the needles knitwise, starting with the front needle. Work a knit stitch, pulling the loop through both of the stitches you’ve inserted the third needle through. After you’ve pulled the loop through, slip the first stitch off of each of the needles. This takes two stitches (one from the front needle and one from the back) and joins them to make one finished stitch on the third needle (held in your right hand). Repeat this motion, inserting your needle into one stitch on the front and back needles, knitting them together and slipping them off of the needles. Each time you complete a second stitch, pass the first finished stitch over the second and off of the needle (as you would in a traditional bind-off). Repeat until all the stitches have been worked.
Stitch Key
cb4- sl the next 2 sts onto you cable needle, hold in back, k the next 2 sts, k the 2 sts on your cable needle cf4- sl the next 2 sts onto you cable needle, hold in front, k the next 2 sts, k the 2 sts on your cable needle
Cable Hood Pattern
Newborn
Cast on 46 sts.
Always slip the first st of the row purlwise for a neat edge.
Row 1 – k18, p1, k8, p1, k18
Row 2 and all even (wrong side) rows – p18, k1, p8, k1, p18
Row 3 – k18, p1, cb4, cf4, p1, k18
Row 5, 7 – k18, p1, k8, p1, k18
Repeat rows 3-8 until your work measures 5ins from cast on edge.
3-needle bind off.
Cut 3 pieces of yarn appx 30ins long. Fold them in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the hood. Pull the ends through this loop and secure. Now braid loosely to desired length. Clip ends. Repeat on the other side. Block so edges lay flat. (see instructions at the end of the pattern if you don’t know how to do this)
0-3mths
Cast on 50 sts.
Always slip the first st of the row purlwise for a neat edge.
Row 1 – k20, p1, k8, p1, k20
Row 2 and all even (wrong side) rows – p20, k1, p8, k1, p20
Row 3 – k20, p1, cb4, cf4, p1, k20
Row 5, 7 – k20, p1, k8, p1, k20
Repeat rows 3-8 until your work measures 5.5ins from cast on edge.
3-needle bind off.
Cut 3 pieces of yarn appx 30ins long. Fold them in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the hood. Pull the ends through this loop and secure. Now braid loosely to desired length. Clip ends. Repeat on the other side. Block so edges lay flat. (see instructions at the end of the pattern if you don’t know how to do this)
3-6mths
Cast on 54 sts.
Always slip the first st of the row purlwise for a neat edge.
Row 1 – k22, p1, k8, p1, k22
Row 2 and all even (wrong side) rows – p22, k1, p8, k1, p22
Row 3 – k22, p1, cb4, cf4, p1, k22
Row 5, 7 – k22, p1, k8, p1, k22
Repeat rows 3-8 until your work measures 6ins from cast on edge.
3-needle bind off.
Cut 3 pieces of yarn appx 30ins long. Fold them in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the hood. Pull the ends through this loop and secure. Now braid loosely to desired length. Clip ends. Repeat on the other side. Block so edges lay flat. (see instructions at the end of the pattern if you don’t know how to do this)
6-12mths
Cast on 58 sts.
Always slip the first st of the row purlwise for a neat edge.
Row 1 – k24, p1, k8, p1, k24
Row 2 and all even (wrong side) rows – p24, k1, p8, k1, p24
Row 3 – k24, p1, cb4, cf4, p1, k24 Row 5, 7 – k24, p1, k8, p1, k24
Repeat rows 3-8 until your work measures 6.5ins from cast on edge.
3-needle bind off.
Cut 3 pieces of yarn appx 30ins long. Fold them in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the hood. Pull the ends through this loop and secure. Now braid loosely to desired length. Clip ends. Repeat on the other side. Block so edges lay flat. (see instructions at the end of the pattern if you don’t know how to do this)
Blocking your work
To make sure your project lays flat you may want to block it. This will work better if you are using a natural fiber (wool, cotton, etc) over a synthetic (acrylics).
Wet your project with cool water.
Gently squeeze excess water out. Doing this too vigorously could felt wool so be very gentle.
Pin your project with stainless steel or rust proof pins as pictured. I like to use one of the “puzzle tiles” that are for a child’s playroom floor.
