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There’s something incredibly special about knitting for newborns. Every stitch is imbued with love and anticipation, a tactile manifestation of the joy and hope that a new life brings. Over the years, I’ve knitted countless baby items, but one pattern that remains a perennial favorite is the I-Cord Bonnet. This classic bonnet, with its elegant I-cord edge near the face and charming I-cord ties, is not only a practical accessory for keeping little heads warm but also a delightful prop for newborn photography.
The Timeless Appeal of the I-Cord Bonnet
The I-Cord Bonnet stands out in the world of newborn knits due to its simplicity and elegance. The I-cord edge adds a neat, finished look that frames a baby’s face beautifully. I remember the first time I saw a newborn wearing one of these bonnets; it was like something out of a vintage photograph, timeless and utterly precious.
One of the things I love most about this bonnet is its versatility. It can be knit in a variety of yarns, from soft merino wool to luxurious cashmere blends, making it suitable for any season. The simplicity of the design also means it can be easily embellished with little details, like a delicate lace pattern or a small, knitted flower.
Choosing the Right Yarn
Selecting the perfect yarn is one of the most enjoyable parts of knitting the I-Cord Bonnet. For a classic look, I often reach for a soft, DK weight merino wool. It’s gentle on a baby’s sensitive skin and provides just the right amount of warmth. When I want to create something truly luxurious, I turn to cashmere or an alpaca blend. These fibers add a touch of elegance and make the bonnet feel extra special.
Recently, I’ve also experimented with some of the newer, eco-friendly yarns on the market. Organic cotton and bamboo blends are wonderful options for summer bonnets, offering breathability and softness. They’re also a great choice for babies with wool sensitivities.
Knitting the I-Cord Edge
The I-cord edge is the hallmark of this bonnet, giving it a polished, professional finish. If you’ve never knit an I-cord before, don’t worry – it’s simpler than it looks! Essentially, an I-cord is a narrow tube of knitting that is worked by sliding stitches back and forth on double-pointed needles. When added to the edge of the bonnet, it creates a smooth, rounded border that frames a baby’s face perfectly.
Knitting the I-cord edge does require a bit of patience, but the result is well worth the effort. I like to use a contrasting color for the I-cord to add a pop of color and interest. For example, a soft, pastel bonnet with a crisp white I-cord edge looks absolutely stunning in photos.
The Charm of I-Cord Ties
In addition to the I-cord edge, this bonnet features adorable I-cord ties that can be fastened under the baby’s chin. These ties not only keep the bonnet securely in place but also add a charming, old-fashioned touch. There’s something so sweet about those little cords dangling down, tied in a neat bow.
When knitting the ties, I always make sure they are long enough to tie comfortably without being too long – we don’t want any unnecessary ends that might get in the way or pose a safety risk. The I-cord ties are usually the last step in finishing the bonnet, and I love the satisfaction of tying that final bow and seeing the completed piece.
Perfect for Newborn Photography
The I-Cord Bonnet is a favorite among photographers for newborn photo shoots, and it’s easy to see why. The classic design and delicate details make it a perfect prop for capturing those precious early moments. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing many of my bonnets featured in newborn photos, and it always warms my heart to see my work as part of such a special memory.
Photographers often tell me how much they love the way the bonnet frames a baby’s face, highlighting their delicate features. The I-cord edge and ties add a touch of vintage charm that looks beautiful in both color and black-and-white photos. Whether it’s a simple, natural shoot or something more elaborate, the I-Cord Bonnet is a versatile prop that complements any setting.
A Thoughtful Handmade Gift
Knitting an I-Cord Bonnet for a newborn is a heartfelt way to welcome a new baby into the world. Handmade gifts carry a special significance, and there’s something truly wonderful about giving a gift that you’ve created with your own hands. I love to knit these bonnets for friends and family members who are expecting, and they are always warmly received.
Each bonnet is a labor of love, with every stitch carrying a wish for the baby’s health and happiness. I often include a little note with care instructions and a message about the significance of the bonnet. It’s a small touch, but it makes the gift even more meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Knitting the I-Cord Bonnet is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. From choosing the perfect yarn to knitting the I-cord edge and ties, every step is a chance to create something beautiful and meaningful. Whether you’re knitting for your own baby, a friend’s little one, or as a special gift for a newborn photo shoot, this classic bonnet is sure to be cherished.
The timeless appeal of the I-Cord Bonnet, with its elegant details and classic design, ensures it will remain a favorite in my knitting repertoire for years to come. There’s a certain magic in seeing a newborn wearing something you’ve made, and the I-Cord Bonnet captures that beauty perfectly.
Materials and Info
Materials: Worsted weight yarn (appx 90 yards) My favorite yarns to use are Knitpicks Wool of the Andes and Caron Joy. 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
