Looking for a fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern? This sweet photo prop is featured at the bottom of this post—check out more on the photo prop pattern page!


Free Fluffy Lace Knit Bonnet Pattern: Fountain Bonnet

There’s just something irresistible about a delicate bonnet with a bit of fluff and lace, especially when it’s destined to sit atop a sweet little newborn head. I’ve knit a lot of bonnets in my day, but the fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern I’m sharing today—the Fountain Bonnet—feels extra special. It’s soft, elegant, and has just enough texture to make every photo shine without overwhelming the sweet face beneath it.

If you’re as obsessed with finding the perfect fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern for your next newborn session as I am, you’re in the right place.


Why I Fell in Love with This Fluffy Lace Knit Bonnet Pattern

I first spotted the Fountain Bonnet while browsing my ever-growing list of free photo prop patterns (yes, I have a whole page for those). The moment I saw the delicate cascading stitch, I knew I had to knit it. There’s something so peaceful about the way the stitches flow—like a tiny waterfall of fluff—and I instantly imagined it in one of my newborn photo shoots.

And can we talk about that lace? The stitch pattern looks far more complicated than it actually is (bless), which makes this a great choice for when I want to knit something that feels fancy without actually making my brain work overtime.


Choosing Yarn: Soft and Fluffy Without the Splurge

The original fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern uses angora yarn. And yes, it’s dreamy. Angora has that gentle halo effect and feather-light feel that makes everything look extra soft and cuddly. But… it’s also a bit of a splurge.

So, when I wanted a more budget-friendly option, I turned to Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link). This yarn is such a gem—it’s soft, it’s airy, it mimics that angora halo, and it’s easy on the wallet. Best of all, it doesn’t sacrifice baby-friendliness. I used Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link) in a soft pastel pink that practically begged to be knit into something adorable.

If you’ve got angora on hand, go for it! But if not, Fluffy Day (affiliate link) gives you all the charm of a luxury yarn without the luxury price tag.


Casting On: Getting Started with the Fountain Bonnet

Once I had my yarn and needles ready, it was time to dive into the pattern. The fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern begins with a simple cast-on and then eases into the stitch pattern that gives the Fountain Bonnet its signature look.

And let me tell you—the stitch pattern is a satisfying one. It’s a mix of yarn overs and decreases that create this gentle, cascading texture. It looks fancy. It feels fancy. But it’s not hard. Truly. This fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern is one of those sneaky patterns that looks advanced but doesn’t require a PhD in lacework.

fountain bonnet

Knitting Joy: Meditative and Magical (but not actually magical)

Knitting this bonnet was pure joy. It gave me that perfect meditative flow I look for in my evening knitting. There’s something about the combo of rhythmic stitches and squishy yarn that settles me in a way nothing else does.

With Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link) gliding through my fingers, I was in the zone. The fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern kept my hands busy and my brain relaxed. Plus, I could just imagine how darling it would look on a baby’s head, and that’s the kind of motivation that keeps me knitting row after row.


Personal Touches Make It Yours

One of the best things about this fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern is how customizable it is. Want to go classic with creams and whites? Go for it. Want to lean into blush pinks or even sage green? Yes and yes.

I added a little twist by knitting a coordinating pair of booties in the same Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link) colorway. Then I made the bonnet just a smidge bigger to give a little growing room.

This pattern also lends itself beautifully to embellishments—think a tiny knit flower, a crocheted edging, or even a mini pom-pom on top.


The Big Reveal: Finished Fountain Bonnet

After a few evenings of cozy knitting, I finished my Fountain Bonnet. The result? A buttery-soft, lacey, cloud-like bonnet that looked like it belonged in a fairytale.

The Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link) yarn delivered on its promise of fluff without fuss, and the stitch definition in this fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern made those cascading rows pop in the sweetest way.


Putting It to the Test: Baby’s First Photo Op

The real magic (okay, not magic… joy!) came when I used the bonnet for a newborn photo session. My friend’s baby girl wore the Fountain Bonnet in soft pink, and it was everything I’d hoped for. The fluffy lace knit bonnet framed her tiny face perfectly, and those stitches gave just enough visual interest without stealing the show.

It was classic. It was sweet. It was the exact kind of fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern moment I live for.

fountain bonnet

Why You’ll Want to Knit This Bonnet Too

Here’s what makes the Fountain Bonnet such a keeper:

  • Elegant Design: The stitch pattern is unique but easy.
  • Soft Yarn Options: Works with angora or Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link).
  • Customizable: Adjust the size or add embellishments.
  • Budget-Friendly: A designer look without the luxury cost.
  • Relaxing Knit: Just enough detail to keep you interested but not so much it feels like work.

Tips for Success with This Fluffy Lace Knit Bonnet Pattern

  • Choose Your Yarn Smartly: Angora is beautiful, but Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link) is a winner on its own.
  • Check Your Gauge: A quick swatch can save you heartache later.
  • Block It Gently: Light blocking helps that lace really bloom.
  • Never Leave Baby Unattended in a Bonnet: Always safety first—especially with photo props.

Ready to Knit Yours?

The Fountain Bonnet is a sweet and simple way to dip into lace, try out fluffy yarn, and create a stunning keepsake for photos. Whether you’re knitting for your own baby, a friend’s new arrival, or your photography studio stash, this fluffy lace knit bonnet pattern delivers on both charm and function.

The pattern is right below, and you can check out all my other photo prop patterns over on my photo prop pattern page.

Happy knitting—and tag me if you make it! I love seeing your sweet creations.

fountain bonnet

Materials and Info

Materials: 45-100yds worsted weight (size 4) yarn (I used Plymouth Yarns Angora and Hobbii fluffy Day (affiliate link)), size 8 (5mm) straight and double pointed needles

Gauge: 4st/in in stockinette st GAUGE IS VERY IMPORTANT!!!  SAVE TIME AND SWATCH FIRST!!!

Sizes (appx finished head circumference): newborn -13ins, 0-3mths (14ins), 3-6mth (15ins), 6-12mths (16ins), Toddler (17ins)

Abbreviations:

K – knit                                              P – purl

YO – yarn over                                    k2tog – knit 2 together       

PSSO – pass slipped stitch over              SL – slip stitch                

Fountain Bonnet Pattern

Newborn

Cast on 45sts

Row 1 – K1 [YO, K3, YO, K1] repeat [] across(67sts)

Row 2 – purl across

Row 3 – K2 (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO) [K3, (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO)] repeat [] across to last 2 sts, k2(45sts)

Row 4 – purl across

Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures 4ins ending after working a row 3.

You will now start working in the round.

Decreases

Round 1: (k2tog k3) repeat around (36sts)

Round 2: knit around

Round 3: (k2tog k2) repeat around (27sts)

Round 4: (k2tog k1) repeat around (18sts)

Round 5: (k2tog) repeat around (9sts)

Do NOT bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through the remaining sts.  Weave in ends.  Cut 6 strands 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 braid. Repeat on the other side.

0-3mths

CO 49 sts

Row 1 – K1 [YO, K3, YO, K1] repeat [] across(73sts)

Row 2 – purl across

Row 3 – K2 (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO) [K3, (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO)] repeat [] across to last 2 sts, k2 (49sts)

Row 4 – purl across

Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures 4.5ins ending after working a row 3.

You will now start working in the round.

Decreases

Round 1: K2tog, knit around (48sts)

Round 2: (k2tog k4) repeat around (40sts)

Round 3: (k2tog k3) repeat around (32sts)

Round 4: (k2tog k2) repeat around (24sts)

Round 5: (k2tog k1) repeat around (16sts)

Round 6: (k2tog) repeat around (8sts)

Do NOT bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through the remaining sts.  Weave in ends.  Cut 6 strands 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 braid. Repeat on the other side.

3-6mths

CO 53 sts

Row 1 – K1 [YO, K3, YO, K1] repeat [] across (79sts)

Row 2 – purl across

Row 3 – K2 (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO) [K3, (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO)] repeat [] across to last 2 sts, k2 (53sts)

Row 4 – purl across

Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures 5ins ending after working a row 3.

You will now start working in the round.

Decreases

Round 1: (K2tog, K9, K2tog, k8, k2tog, k9, k2tog, k8, k2tog, k9) (48sts)

Round 2: (k2tog k4) repeat around (40sts)

Round 3: (k2tog k3) repeat around (32sts)

Round 4: (k2tog k2) repeat around (24sts)

Round 5: (k2tog k1) repeat around (16sts)

Round 6: (k2tog) repeat around (8sts)

Do NOT bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through the remaining sts.  Weave in ends.  Cut 6 strands 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 braid. Repeat on the other side.

6-12mths

CO 57 sts

Row 1 – K1 [YO, K3, YO, K1] repeat []across (85sts)

Row 2 – purl across

Row 3 – K2 (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO) [K3, (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO)] repeat []across to last 2 sts, k2 (57sts)

Row 4 – purl across

Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures 5.5ins ending after working a row 3.

You will now start working in the round.

Decreases

Round 1: k2tog, knit across (56sts)

Round 2: (k2tog k5) Repeat around (48sts)

Round 3: (k2tog k4) repeat around (40sts)

Round 4: (k2tog k3) repeat around (32sts)

Round 5: (k2tog k2) repeat around (24sts)

Round 6: (k2tog k1) repeat around (16sts)

Round 7: (k2tog) repeat around (8sts)

Do NOT bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through the remaining sts.  Weave in ends.  Cut 6 strands 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 braid. Repeat on the other side.

Toddler

CO 61 sts

Row 1 – K1 [YO, K3, YO, K1] repeat []across (91sts)

Row 2 – purl across

Row 3 – K2 (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO) [K3, (SL1, K2TOG, PSSO)] repeat []across to last 2 sts, k2 (61sts)

Row 4 – purl across

Repeat rows 1-4 until your work measures 6.25ins ending after working a row 3.

You will now start working in the round.

Decreases

Round 1: k2tog, knit across (60sts)

Round 2: (k2tog k4) repeat around (50sts)

Round 3: knit around

Round 4: (k2tog k3) repeat around (40sts)

Round 5: (k2tog k2) repeat around (30sts)

Round 6: (k2tog k1) repeat around (20sts)

Round 7: (k2tog) repeat around (10sts)

Do NOT bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through the remaining sts.  Weave in ends.  Cut 6 strands 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 braid. Repeat on the other side.

Fountain Bonnet PDF

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