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!
As a knitter and a mother, there’s something incredibly special about creating adorable, hand-knit items for newborns. Today, I’m excited to share my experience and insights about the Chocolate Bunny Bonnet, a delightful free knitting pattern that’s perfect for newborn photo props. This charming mohair bunny bonnet, complete with floppy ears, is made using the luxuriously soft KnitPicks Aloft yarn.
The Inspiration Behind the Chocolate Bunny Bonnet
The idea for the Chocolate Bunny Bonnet came to me during one of my many knitting sessions. I was working on a project with my favorite mohair yarn when I noticed how the soft, fluffy texture resembled a bunny’s fur. With Easter around the corner and a friend expecting a baby, I was inspired to create a whimsical bunny bonnet that would not only keep a newborn cozy but also make for the most adorable photo prop.
Why KnitPicks Aloft?
Choosing the right yarn is crucial for any knitting project, especially when it’s meant for a newborn. KnitPicks Aloft was the perfect choice for the Chocolate Bunny Bonnet for several reasons:
- Softness: This yarn is incredibly soft and gentle on a baby’s delicate skin. Made from a blend of super kid mohair and silk, it has a luxurious feel that’s ideal for baby items.
- Texture: The fluffy halo of Aloft adds a whimsical touch to the bunny bonnet, giving it that cute, furry look.
- Color Options: KnitPicks Aloft comes in a variety of colors, but I chose a rich, chocolate brown to resemble a classic chocolate bunny. The color is warm and inviting, perfect for baby photos.
- Durability: Despite its delicate appearance, Aloft is quite durable. This is essential for baby items that might need a gentle wash after an inevitable spit-up or two.
Getting Started with the Pattern
Before diving into the knitting, I gathered all my materials: a few balls of KnitPicks Aloft in Chocolate, my trusty circular needles, and a tapestry needle for finishing touches. I also had some stitch markers on hand to help with the more intricate parts of the pattern.
The pattern itself is quite straightforward, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced knitters. It involves basic stitches, some increases, and decreases, and of course, the adorable floppy ears. One of the things I love about this pattern is how quickly it knits up. Within a few evenings, I had a finished bonnet ready to be gifted.
Knitting the Bonnet
The bonnet starts with a simple cast-on, followed by a few rows of ribbing to ensure a snug fit around the baby’s head. The main body of the bonnet is worked in stockinette stitch, which allows the beauty of the mohair to shine through.
Creating the floppy ears was the most fun part. They are knit separately and then sewn onto the bonnet. The ears are slightly oversized to add to the cuteness factor, and their floppiness is just irresistible.
As I worked on the ears, I found myself daydreaming about the upcoming photo shoot. I could already picture the newborn wearing the bonnet, looking like a tiny, chocolate-colored bunny. The anticipation and excitement kept me motivated to finish the project.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Once the knitting was complete, it was time to sew the ears onto the bonnet and weave in any loose ends. I always take my time with this step, ensuring everything is secure and neatly finished. After all, these little details can make a big difference in the overall look and durability of the piece.
I also gave the bonnet a gentle wash and block to help it take shape. Blocking is a crucial step for mohair projects as it helps the fibers bloom and achieve that fluffy, airy look.
The Photo Shoot
The day of the photo shoot finally arrived. My friend’s baby was the perfect model for the Chocolate Bunny Bonnet. Seeing the bonnet on a newborn was incredibly rewarding. The soft mohair hugged the baby’s head gently, and the floppy ears framed the little face beautifully. The chocolate brown color complemented the baby’s skin tone, and the overall effect was beyond adorable.
We took several photos in different settings: some with the baby nestled in a basket lined with soft blankets, others with the baby lying on a fluffy rug. Each shot captured the sweet innocence of the newborn and the whimsical charm of the bunny bonnet.
Why I Love This Pattern
The Chocolate Bunny Bonnet holds a special place in my heart for several reasons. Firstly, it combines my love for knitting with my passion for creating memorable photo props. There’s something magical about crafting an item that will be part of a family’s cherished memories.
Secondly, this pattern is a wonderful way to experiment with mohair yarn. If you’ve never worked with mohair before, this project is an excellent introduction. The pattern is simple enough not to be intimidating, yet it allows you to experience the beauty and challenges of knitting with such a delicate fiber.
Finally, this bonnet makes an excellent gift. Whether you’re knitting for a friend’s baby, a family member, or even to donate to a local hospital, the Chocolate Bunny Bonnet is sure to be appreciated. It’s handmade with love, and that’s something you can’t buy in a store.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Bunny Bonnet has quickly become one of my favorite knitting projects. It’s easy to make, incredibly cute, and perfect for newborn photo shoots. If you’re looking for a new project to try, I highly recommend giving this pattern a go. Not only will you create a beautiful, hand-knit item, but you’ll also have the joy of knowing you’ve made something special for a little one.
Happy knitting, and may your projects bring as much joy to you as they do to those who receive them!
Materials and Info
Materials: 1 skein of lace weight (size 0) mohair yarn (I used Knitpicks Aloft), size 7 (4.5mm) straight and dpn needles, yarn needle
Gauge: 4.5sts x 8r per in ~GAUGE IS VERY IMPORTANT~
Stitch Key:
K – knit
P – purl
yo – yarn over
k2tog – knit 2 together
ssk – slip slip knit (slip sts purlwise)
m1 – make one
Head circumference: nb (13ins). 0-3mths (14ins), 3-6mth (15ins), 6- 12mths (16ins)
Chocolate Bunny Bonnet Pattern
Newborn
Cast on 52 sts using the E- cast on or your favorite stretchy cast on.
Row 1 – (k1p1) repeat across
Repeat row 1 until you have worked 4 rows total.
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 4ins from the cast on edge ending after completing a right side row.
You will now start working in the round. Switch to dpn here.
Round 1 – (k2tog, k11) repeat around(48sts)
Round 2 – (k2tog, k4) repeat around (40sts)
Round 3 – knit
Round 4 – (k2tog, k3) repeat around (32sts)
Round 5 – knit
Round 6 – (k2tog, k2) repeat around (24sts)
Round 7 – knit
Round 8 – (k2tog, k1) repeat around (16sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold three in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop and braid. Repeat on the other side.
Ears (Make 2)
Cast on 12sts leaving a long enough tail to sew the ear onto the hat with.
Row 1 – knit
Row 2 – purl
Row 3 – k1, m1, k10, m1, k1 (14sts)
Row 4 – purl
Row 5 – k1, m1, k12, m1, k1 (16sts)
Row 6 – purl
Row 7 – k1, m1, k14, m1, k1 (18sts)
Continue in stockinette st until your work measures 5ins from cast on edge ending after finishing a purl row.
Decreases
Row 1 – k1, ssk, k12, k2tog, k1 (16sts)
Row 2 – purl
Row 3 – k1, ssk, k10, k2tog, k1 (14sts)
Row 4 – purl
Row 5 – k1, ssk, ssk, k4, k2tog, k2tog, k1 (10sts)
Row 6 – purl
Row 7 – k1, ssk, ssk, k2tog, k2tog, k1 (6sts)
Do no bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins, pull through remaining 6sts. Cinch together tightly like the back of the bonnet. Weave in ends. Use the top end to sew the ears onto the hat. I like my ears about 1.5ins from the front edge and about 2ins apart. That is my personal preference but placement can be where ever you feel looks best. I just whip stitch them on but you can use whatever method you prefer to attach them.
0-3mths
Cast on 56 sts using the E- cast on or your favorite stretchy cast on.
Row 1 – (k1p1) repeat across
Repeat row 1 until you have worked 4 rows total.
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 4.5ins from the cast on edge ending after completing a right side row.
You will now start working in the round. Switch to dpn here.
Round 1 – (k2tog, 26) repeat around (54sts)
Round 2 – (k2tog, k4) repeat around (45sts)
Round 3 – knit
Round 4 – (k2tog, k3) repeat around (36sts)
Round 5 – knit
Round 6 – (k2tog, k2) repeat around (27sts)
Round 7 – knit
Round 8 – (k2tog, k1) repeat around (18sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold three in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop and braid. Repeat on the other side.
Ears (Make 2)
Cast on 12sts leaving a long enough tail to sew the ear onto the hat with.
Row 1 – knit
Row 2 – purl
Row 3 – k1, m1, k10, m1, k1 (14sts)
Row 4 – purl
Row 5 – k1, m1, k12, m1, k1 (16sts)
Row 6 – purl
Row 7 – k1, m1, k14, m1, k1 (18sts)
Continue in stockinette st until your work measures 5.5ins from cast on edge ending after finishing a purl row.
Decreases
Row 1 – k1, ssk, k12, k2tog, k1 (16sts)
Row 2 – purl
Row 3 – k1, ssk, k10, k2tog, k1 (14sts)
Row 4 – purl
Row 5 – k1, ssk, ssk, k4, k2tog, k2tog, k1 (10sts)
Row 6 – purl
Row 7 – k1, ssk, ssk, k2tog, k2tog, k1 (6sts)
Do no bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins, pull through remaining 6sts. Cinch together tightly like the back of the bonnet. Weave in ends. Use the top end to sew the ears onto the hat. I like my ears about 1.5ins from the front edge and about 2ins apart. That is my personal preference but placement can be where ever you feel looks best. I just whip stitch them on but you can use whatever method you prefer to attach them.
3-6mths
Cast on 62 sts using the E- cast on or your favorite stretchy cast on.
Row 1 – (k1p1) repeat across
Repeat row 1 until you have worked 6 rows total.
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 5ins from the cast on edge ending after completing a right side row.
You will now start working in the round. Switch to dpn here.
Round 1 – (k2tog, k29) repeat around (60sts)
Round 2 – (k2tog, k4) repeat around (50sts)
Round 3 – knit
Round 4 – (k2tog, k3) repeat around (40sts)
Round 5 – knit
Round 6 – (k2tog, k2) repeat around (30sts)
Round 7 – knit
Round 8 – (k2tog, k1) repeat around (20sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold three in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop and braid. Repeat on the other side.
Ears (Make 2)
Cast on 14sts leaving a long enough tail to sew the ear onto the hat with.
Row 1 – knit
Row 2 – purl
Row 3 – k1, m1, k12, m1, k1 (16sts)
Row 4 – purl
Row 5 – k1, m1, k14, m1, k1 (18sts)
Row 6 – purl
Row 7 – k1, m1, k16, m1, k1 (20sts)
Continue in stockinette st until your work measures 6ins from cast on edge ending after finishing a purl row.
Decreases
Row 1 – k1, ssk, k14, k2tog, k1 (18sts)
Row 2 – purl
Row 3 – k1, ssk, k12, k2tog, k1 (16sts)
Row 4 – purl
Row 5 – k1, ssk, k10, k2tog, k1 (14sts)
Row 6 – purl
Row 7 – k1, ssk, ssk, k4, k2tog, k2tog, k1 (10sts)
Row 8 – purl
Row 9 – k1, ssk, ssk, k2tog, k2tog, k1 (6sts)
Do no bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins, pull through remaining 6sts. Cinch together tightly like the back of the bonnet. Weave in ends. Use the top end to sew the ears onto the hat. I like my ears about 1.5ins from the front edge and about 3ins apart. That is my personal preference but placement can be where ever you feel looks best. I just whip stitch them on but you can use whatever method you prefer to attach them.
6-12mths
Cast on 66 sts using the E- cast on or your favorite stretchy cast on.
Row 1 – (k1p1) repeat across
Repeat row 1 until you have worked 6 rows total.
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 5.5ins from the cast on edge ending after completing a right side row.
You will now start working in the round. Switch to dpn here.
Round 1 – (k2tog, k9) repeat around (60sts)
Round 2 – (k2tog, k4) repeat around (50sts)
Round 3 – knit
Round 4 – (k2tog, k3) repeat around (40sts)
Round 5 – knit
Round 6 – (k2tog, k2) repeat around (30sts)
Round 7 – knit
Round 8 – (k2tog, k1) repeat around (20sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold three in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop and braid. Repeat on the other side.
Ears (Make 2)
Cast on 14sts leaving a long enough tail to sew the ear onto the hat with.
Row 1 – knit
Row 2 – purl
Row 3 – k1, m1, k12, m1, k1 (16sts)
Row 4 – purl
Row 5 – k1, m1, k14, m1, k1 (18sts)
Row 6 – purl
Row 7 – k1, m1, k16, m1, k1 (20sts)
Continue in stockinette st until your work measures 6ins from cast on edge ending after finishing a purl row.
Decreases
Row 1 – k1, ssk, k14, k2tog, k1 (18sts)
Row 2 – purl
Row 3 – k1, ssk, k12, k2tog, k1 (16sts)
Row 4 – purl
Row 5 – k1, ssk, k10, k2tog, k1 (14sts)
Row 6 – purl
Row 7 – k1, ssk, ssk, k4, k2tog, k2tog, k1 (10sts)
Row 8 – purl
Row 9 – k1, ssk, ssk, k2tog, k2tog, k1 (6sts)
Do no bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins, pull through remaining 6sts. Cinch together tightly like the back of the bonnet. Weave in ends. Use the top end to sew the ears onto the hat. I like my ears about 1.5ins from the front edge and about 3ins apart. That is my personal preference but placement can be where ever you feel looks best. I just whip stitch them on but you can use whatever method you prefer to attach them.
Chocolate Bunny Bonnet PDF
