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As a seasoned knitter and enthusiastic newborn photographer, I am always on the lookout for patterns that combine practicality with a touch of whimsy. My latest discovery, the Gathering Bonnet, has quickly become a favorite. This free knitting pattern creates a beautiful newborn photo prop that features a delicate gathered section at the front, framing the baby’s face with an elegant touch. Today, I want to share my journey in creating this charming bonnet using KnitPicks Capretta yarn.
The Inspiration Behind the Gathering Bonnet
Newborn photography is all about capturing the fleeting, precious moments of a baby’s early days. Props play a significant role in these sessions, adding a unique, handmade touch that enhances the beauty and softness of the newborn. The Gathering Bonnet is no exception. Its delicate gathered detail is what initially caught my eye; it’s a design element that adds sophistication and charm, making it an ideal choice for newborn photo shoots.
Choosing the Yarn: KnitPicks Capretta
Selecting the right yarn is crucial for any knitting project, especially for items intended for newborns. I chose KnitPicks Capretta for this project, and it was a decision that paid off beautifully. Capretta is a luxurious blend of merino wool, cashmere, and nylon, making it incredibly soft and gentle on a baby’s delicate skin. The yarn’s subtle sheen and smooth texture lend themselves perfectly to the refined look of the Gathering Bonnet.
KnitPicks Capretta comes in a variety of colors, allowing for creative flexibility. For my Gathering Bonnet, I opted for a soft, neutral shade that complements any newborn outfit, ensuring that the bonnet would be a versatile addition to my prop collection.
Getting Started: The Knitting Process
The Gathering Bonnet pattern is straightforward, making it accessible even to those who might be relatively new to knitting. The pattern begins with the bonnet’s body, which is knit flat. This section is simple yet enjoyable, allowing the knitter to focus on achieving a smooth and even texture with the luxurious Capretta yarn.
Once the body of the bonnet is complete, the magic happens at the front section. The gathered detail is created using a series of strategically placed stitches that pull the fabric together, forming a soft, ruched effect. This section requires a bit more attention and precision, but the results are well worth the effort. Watching the gathers form as you knit is incredibly satisfying, and it adds an element of interest to the project.
The Final Touches: Creating the Ties
No bonnet is complete without its ties, and the Gathering Bonnet is no exception. The ties are essential for both function and aesthetic appeal. They ensure the bonnet stays securely on the baby’s head while also adding a sweet finishing touch. I chose to create simple I-cord ties for a clean and polished look. The softness of the Capretta yarn ensures that the ties are comfortable for the baby, avoiding any irritation.
Blocking the Bonnet
Blocking is a crucial step in finishing any knitting project, and the Gathering Bonnet is no different. Blocking helps to even out stitches, open up any lace or gathered sections, and give the bonnet its final shape. With Capretta yarn, blocking also enhances the natural drape and softness of the fabric.
I carefully soaked the bonnet in lukewarm water with a bit of wool wash, gently squeezing out the excess water without wringing it. Then, I laid the bonnet flat on a towel, shaping it to its desired dimensions. For the gathered section, I took extra care to ensure that the gathers were evenly distributed and pronounced. After leaving the bonnet to dry completely, I was thrilled with the result. The blocking process had brought out the best in the yarn and the pattern, creating a professional and polished final product.
Photographing the Finished Bonnet
With the bonnet complete, it was time to see it in action. I couldn’t wait to use it in a newborn photo shoot. The soft, neutral color and elegant gathered detail made the bonnet a perfect addition to my prop collection. As I positioned it on the baby’s head, I was struck by how beautifully it framed their face, adding a touch of vintage charm to the photos.
The Capretta yarn’s softness ensured that the baby was comfortable throughout the shoot, and the delicate gathered section created a lovely focal point in the images. The bonnet added an element of handcrafted elegance that elevated the overall aesthetic of the photos.
Reflections and Future Projects
Creating the Gathering Bonnet with KnitPicks Capretta yarn was a delightful experience. The pattern is well-written and easy to follow, and the gathered detail adds a unique touch that sets it apart from other bonnets. The luxurious Capretta yarn was a joy to work with, providing both comfort and beauty.
This project has inspired me to explore more patterns and designs that feature delicate details and refined textures. The success of the Gathering Bonnet has also reinforced my love for using high-quality yarns in my projects, particularly when creating items for newborns.
If you’re a knitter looking for a charming and practical project, I highly recommend giving the Gathering Bonnet a try. Whether you’re an experienced knitter or a beginner, the pattern offers a satisfying and rewarding experience. The finished bonnet is not only a beautiful photo prop but also a cherished keepsake that can be passed down through generations.
In the world of newborn photography, where every detail matters, the Gathering Bonnet stands out as a perfect blend of elegance and functionality. I look forward to using it in many more photo shoots and exploring new ways to incorporate its delicate gathered detail into my knitting repertoire. Happy knitting!
Materials and Info
Materials: 70-120yds fingering yarn (I used knitpicks capretta), size 3 needles (straight and dpn)
Gauge: 7sts/in ~GAUGE IS VERY IMPORTANT!!!~
Head circumference: nb (13ins). 0-3mths (14ins), 3-6mth (15ins), 6-12mths (16ins)
Stitch Key:
k – knit
p – purl
kfb – knit into the front and the back of the stitch
k2tog – knit 2 stitches together
Gathering Bonnet Pattern
Newborn
Cast on 70 stitches.
Rows 1-6 – knit across
Row 7 – k1 (kfb) across to last stitch, k1 (138sts)
Rows 8-14 – work in stockinette stitch (k all right side rows and a p all wrong side rows) starting with a wrong side row
Row 15 – k1 (k2tog) across to last stitch, k1 (70sts)
Rows 16-21 – knit across
Continue in stockinette stitch (k all right side rows and a p all wrong side rows) starting with a wrong side row until your work measures 4ins from cast on edge.
You will now start working in the round. Switch to dpn here.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog, k5] repeat around (60sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog, k4] repeat around (50sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k3] repeat around (40sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k2] repeat around (30sts)
Round 8 – knit around
Round 9 – [k2tog, k1] repeat around (20sts)
Round 10 – [k2tog] repeat around (10sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining 10sts. 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
Cast on 77 stitches.
Rows 1-6 – knit across
Row 7 – k1 (kfb) across to last stitch, k1 (152sts)
Rows 8-14 – work in stockinette stitch (k all right side rows and a p all wrong side rows) starting with a wrong side row
Row 15 – k1 (k2tog) across to last stitch, k1 (77sts)
Rows 16-21 – knit across
Continue in stockinette stitch (k all right side rows and a p all wrong side rows) starting with a wrong side row until your work measures 4.5ins from cast on edge.
You will now start working in the round. Switch to dpn here.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog, k5] repeat around (66sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3– [k2tog, k4] repeat around (55sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k3] repeat around (44sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k2] repeat around (33sts)
Round 8 – knit around
Round 9 – [k2tog, k1] repeat around (22sts)
Round 10 – [k2tog] repeat around (11sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining 10sts. 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
Cast on 86 stitches.
Rows 1-6 – knit across
Row 7 – k1 (kfb) across to last stitch, k1 (170sts)
Rows 8-16 – work in stockinette stitch (k all right side rows and a p all wrong side rows) starting with a wrong side row
Row 17 – k1 (k2tog) across to last stitch, k1 (86sts)
Rows 18-23 – knit across
Continue in stockinette stitch (k all right side rows and a p all wrong side rows) starting with a wrong side row until your work measures 5ins from cast on edge.
You will now start working in the round. Switch to dpn here.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog, k41] repeat around (84sts)
Round 2 – [k2tog, k5] repeat around (72sts)
Round 3 – knit around
Round 4– [k2tog, k4] repeat around (60sts)
Round 5 – knit around
Round 6 – [k2tog, k3] repeat around (48sts)
Round 7 – knit around
Round 8 – [k2tog, k2] repeat around (36sts)
Round 9 – knit around
Round 10 – [k2tog, k1] repeat around (24sts)
Round 11 – [k2tog] repeat around (12sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining 10sts. 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
Cast on 96 stitches.
Rows 1-6 – knit across
Row 7 – k1 (kfb) across to last stitch, k1 (190sts)
Rows 8-16 – work in stockinette stitch (k all right side rows and a p all wrong side rows) starting with a wrong side row
Row 17 – k1 (k2tog) across to last stitch, k1 (96sts)
Rows 18-23 – knit across
Continue in stockinette stitch (k all right side rows and a p all wrong side rows) starting with a wrong side row until your work measures 5.5ins from cast on edge.
You will now start working in the round. Switch to dpn here.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog, k5] repeat around (84sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3– [k2tog, k4] repeat around (70sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k3] repeat around (56sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k2] repeat around (42sts)
Round 8 – knit around
Round 9 – [k2tog, k1] repeat around (28sts)
Round 10 – [k2tog] repeat around (14sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining 10sts. 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.
Gathering Bonnet PDF
