Snag this sweet I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern (and others like it!) over on the photo prop pattern page! Pattern below.
When it comes to knitting for newborns, I can’t help but reach for the classics. One of my all-time favorites? The I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern. There’s just something about the delicate edge, the sweet ties, and the timeless charm that gets me every time. And if you’re looking for a beautiful, beginner-friendly project that doubles as an adorable photo prop, this is it.
The featured I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern is waiting for you at the bottom of this post—but if you’re in the mood for even more squishy goodness, check out the rest of my free photo prop patterns here.
Why I Keep Coming Back to the I-Cord Brim Bonnet Pattern
I’ve knit this I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern more times than I can count, and every time feels just as sweet as the first. There’s a satisfying rhythm in the simple stitches, and the I-cord edging just gives the whole thing a clean, polished finish that photographs beautifully.
I still remember the first time I slipped one of these bonnets onto a baby’s head. That little face framed by a soft, rounded I-cord edge? Pure perfection. It looked like a snapshot from an old family album—sweet, soft, and timeless.
Yarn Talk: My Favorite for the I-Cord Brim Bonnet Pattern
Let’s talk yarn. For this particular I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern, I used KnitPicks Capra (affiliate link)—and oh my goodness, it’s a dream. Capra is this soft and lofty merino and cashmere blend that feels luxurious without being fussy. Perfect for delicate baby skin and ideal for those snuggly newborn photos.
Any DK-weight yarn will technically work, but if you’re looking for that cozy-luxe feel, definitely try KnitPicks Capra (affiliate link). It holds up well, photographs beautifully, and makes your stitches pop without any extra effort.
That Iconic I-Cord Brim
The I-cord brim is what really sets this bonnet apart. It’s not just pretty—it’s practical. The rounded edge hugs a baby’s forehead gently, staying put without pulling or puckering. Once I figured out how to knit I-cord directly into the brim, I was hooked. It was like discovering secret sauce for baby bonnets.
If you’ve never tried knitting an I-cord, don’t stress. It sounds fancy, but it’s really just a little tube made by sliding your stitches back and forth on double-pointed needles. I like to make the I-cord in the same yarn as the body of the bonnet, but if you want a little extra flair, go with a contrasting color!
Let’s Not Forget Those Adorable I-Cord Ties
The I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern wouldn’t be complete without matching I-cord ties. They’re not just for looks—they keep the bonnet snug and secure under a baby’s chin. Plus, they add that sweet, vintage touch that gets all the heart eyes from photographers and moms alike.
And yes, I always triple-check the tie length. You want enough room to make a bow, but not so much that the ties dangle forever in baby’s face. The ties are the final cherry on top, and finishing them always makes me smile.
Perfect for Photo Props
If you’re a fellow prop knitter like I am, you’re going to adore how the I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern shows up in photos. Whether it’s a natural daylight shoot or a posed studio setup, that rounded brim frames tiny faces so sweetly. It highlights the softness of newborn features and adds a handmade touch without overwhelming the shot.
I’ve seen this bonnet pop up in everything from dreamy black-and-whites to cozy winter-themed sessions. And each time, it adds this gentle, handcrafted element that feels so genuine and warm.
A Thoughtful Gift New Moms Will Love
One of my favorite things about the I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern is that it makes the perfect handmade gift. I’ve given so many of these little bonnets to new mamas, and they’re always a hit. There’s something special about gifting something that you’ve knit stitch by stitch—especially when it’s wrapped in prayer and love.
When I gift one, I usually tuck in a little note with care instructions and a blessing. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. Just a reminder that this bonnet was knit with care and intention.
Yarn Options for All Seasons
While I adore KnitPicks Capra (affiliate link) for cooler weather, I also like to switch it up depending on the season. A soft organic cotton or bamboo blend is perfect for spring and summer babies—light, breathable, and ideal for babies who might be sensitive to wool.
But for that plush, buttery softness that really stands out in photos? You guessed it—KnitPicks Capra (affiliate link) all the way.
Let’s Talk Fit
The I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern is designed with newborns in mind, and I love how snug the fit is without being tight. That stretchy I-cord brim offers just enough give to fit babies between 6–12 lbs comfortably. And because the design is fairly simple, it’s easy to adjust if you need a slightly larger or smaller fit.
You can also play around with the depth of the crown if you’re knitting for a preemie or a chunkier baby. Just a few rows more (or less), and boom—you’ve got a custom fit.
Final Thoughts on the I-Cord Brim Bonnet Pattern
I’ll be honest—I don’t think I’ll ever stop knitting this I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern. It’s got all the things I love in a knit: simplicity, function, beauty, and that satisfying finish when you tie those little I-cord bows. Whether you’re knitting for your own baby, a photography session, or as a thoughtful handmade gift, this pattern checks all the boxes.
Grab your favorite skein of KnitPicks Capra (affiliate link), pull out your needles, and get ready to fall in love with this timeless little project.
The featured I-Cord brim Bonnet pattern is just below, but don’t forget to swing by my photo prop pattern collection here for even more free goodies!
Materials and Info
Materials: Worsted weight yarn (appx 90 yards) My favorite yarn to use is Capra (affiliate link). Size 6 (4mm) straight needles and double pointed needles (or size needed to obtain gauge).
Gauge: appx 5sts/inch Gauge is very important!
Sizes (appx finished head circumference) : newborn (13ins), 0-3mths (14 ins), 3-6mths (15ins), 6-12mths (16ins), 1-3yrs (17ins)
Notes: In this pattern there is a provisional cast on and an Icord bind off.
I-cord instructions – To make an i-cord cast on 3 sts on double pointed needles. Slide these sts to the right of your needle. Knit the row. Slide the sts to the right of the needle. Knit the row and slide the sts to the right of the needle. Continue in this manner until you reach your desired length, occasionally giving the resulting cord a gentle tug.
I-Cord Bonnet Pattern
Newborn
Provisional cast on 55sts
Stockinette st (beginning with a purl row) for 4ins ending after a knit row.
With double pointed needles start working in the round as follows
rd 1: k2tog k3 around (44sts)
rd 2: k2tog k2 around (33sts)
rd 3: k2tog k1 around (22sts)
rd 4: k2tog (11sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remain 11sts.
Cast on 3sts on double pointed needles and work appx 8ins of i-cord. Place all of the provisional cast on sts on your straight needle (I like to use a circular needle for this but straight will do) and begin i-cord bind off using the 8ins of i-cord you have already worked. Once all of the sts have been bound off work an additional 8ins of i-cord.
Weave in all of your ends and enjoy the cuteness of the little one wearing your handiwork!
0-3mths
Provisional cast on 60sts
Stockinette st (beginning with a purl row) for 4.5ins ending after a knit row.
With double pointed needles start working in the round as follows
rd 1: k2tog k3 around (48sts)
rd 2: k2tog k2 around (36sts)
rd 3: k2tog k1 around (24sts)
rd 4: k2tog (12sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remain 12sts.
Cast on 3sts on double pointed needles and work appx 8ins of i-cord. Place all of the provisional cast on sts on your straight needle (I like to use a circular needle for this but straight will do) and begin i-cord bind off using the 8ins of i-cord you have already worked. Once all of the sts have been bound off work an additional 8ins of i-cord.
Weave in all of your ends and enjoy the cuteness of the little one wearing your handiwork!
3-6mths
Provisional cast on 66sts
Stockinette st (beginning with a purl row) for 5ins ending after a knit row.
With double pointed needles start working in the round as follows
rd 1: k2tog k4 around (55 sts)
rd 2: k2tog k3 around (44sts)
rd 3: k2tog k2 around (33sts)
rd 4: k2tog k1 around (22sts)
rd 5: k2tog (11sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remain 11sts.
Cast on 3sts on double pointed needles and work appx 8-9ins of i-cord. Place all of
the provisional cast on sts on your straight needle (I like to use a circular needle for this but straight will do) and begin i-cord bind off using the 8ins of i-cord you have already worked. Once all of the sts have been bound off work an additional 8-9ins of i-cord.
Weave in all of your ends and enjoy the cuteness of the little one wearing your handiwork!
6-12mths
Provisional cast on 72sts
Stockinette st (beginning with a purl row) for 5.5ins ending after a knit row.
With double pointed needles start working in the round as follows
rd 1: k2tog k4 around (60 sts)
rd 2: k2tog k3 around (48sts)
rd 3: k2tog k2 around (36sts)
rd 4: k2tog k1 around (24sts)
rd 5: k2tog (12sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remain 12sts.
Cast on 3sts on double pointed needles and work appx 8-9ins of i-cord. Place all of the provisional cast on sts on your straight needle (I like to use a circular needle for this but straight will do) and begin i-cord bind off using the 8ins of i-cord you have already worked. Once all of the sts have been bound off work an additional 8-9ins of i-cord.
Weave in all of your ends and enjoy the cuteness of the little one wearing your handiwork!
1-3yrs
Provisional cast on 77sts
Stockinette st (beginning with a purl row) for 6ins ending after a knit row.
With double pointed needles start working in the round as follows
rd 1: k2tog k5 around (66sts)
rd 2: k2tog k4 around (55sts)
rd 3: k2tog k3 around (44sts)
rd 4: k2tog k2 around (33sts)
rd 5: k2tog k1 around (22sts)
rd 6: k2tog (11sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remain 11sts.
Cast on 3sts on double pointed needles and work appx 8-9ins of i-cord. Place all of the provisional cast on sts on your straight needle (I like to use a circular needle for this but straight will do) and begin i-cord bind off using the 8ins of i-cord you have already worked. Once all of the sts have been bound off work an additional 8-9ins of i-cord.
Weave in all of your ends and enjoy the cuteness of the little one wearing your handiwork!
I-Cord Bonnet PDF
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