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As a seasoned knitter and a passionate photographer, there’s a special joy I find in crafting handmade items that add a unique touch to my newborn photo sessions. One of my favorite projects to knit and use as a photo prop is the Knotted Nightcap. This delightful pattern creates a cozy, whimsical hat that not only keeps newborns warm but also adds a charming element to their photos. Let me take you on a journey through my experience knitting the Knotted Nightcap using the exquisite Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light yarn.

Discovering the Pattern

The Knotted Nightcap caught my eye while browsing for new patterns to expand my collection of photo props. Its simple yet adorable design immediately stood out. The knot at the top of the hat adds a playful twist, making it a perfect accessory for newborn photography. Knowing how fast babies grow and how precious those first photos are, I wanted a pattern that was both timeless and quick to knit. The Knotted Nightcap fit the bill perfectly.

Choosing the Yarn: Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light

Selecting the right yarn is crucial for any knitting project, especially for items intended for newborns. I decided on Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light for several reasons. This yarn is renowned for its softness, making it ideal for delicate baby skin. It’s a single-ply, fingering-weight yarn, which provides the perfect combination of warmth and breathability.

Another reason I love Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light is its stunning color palette. The yarn is hand-dyed, resulting in a rich, varied color that adds depth and character to any project. For the Knotted Nightcap, I chose a soft, pastel hue that complements the serene and gentle nature of newborn photography. The subtle color variations within each skein add a beautiful, organic feel to the finished hat.

Knitting the Knotted Nightcap

Embarking on the knitting process, I was eager to see how the Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light would work up in this pattern. The yarn glided smoothly on my needles, making each stitch a pleasure to knit. The pattern itself is straightforward, which allowed me to focus on the yarn’s texture and the overall construction of the hat.

The design begins with a stretchy ribbed brim, ensuring a snug fit for various head sizes. I appreciated the simplicity of the ribbing, as it provided a neat, polished edge that seamlessly transitioned into the main body of the hat. As I continued, the Madelinetosh yarn showcased its exceptional stitch definition, highlighting the clean lines of the pattern.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of knitting the Knotted Nightcap was forming the knot at the top. This unique feature sets the hat apart from more traditional designs. To create the knot, the pattern instructs you to knit a long, tapered tube. Once completed, you simply tie it into a knot, securing it firmly. This clever technique adds a whimsical touch and gives the hat its distinctive character.

The Final Touches

After completing the knitting, I took a moment to admire the finished Knotted Nightcap. The Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light had transformed into a soft, elegant hat that felt as delightful as it looked. The pastel color I had chosen added a dreamy quality, perfect for newborn photoshoots.

Blocking is a crucial step in finishing any knitting project, and the Knotted Nightcap was no exception. I gently soaked the hat in lukewarm water with a mild wool wash, then laid it flat to dry. This process helped even out the stitches and gave the hat a professional finish. The yarn’s natural sheen became even more apparent after blocking, enhancing the overall appearance of the hat.

Capturing the Moment

With the Knotted Nightcap complete, it was time to put it to the ultimate test: a newborn photo session. I couldn’t wait to see how this handmade creation would enhance my photos. During the shoot, the hat proved to be a perfect prop. It fit snugly on the baby’s head, staying in place without causing any discomfort. The knot at the top added a touch of whimsy, making the photos even more endearing.

The soft texture and pastel color of the Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light complemented the baby’s delicate features beautifully. The yarn’s subtle color variations added depth to the photos, creating a visual interest that drew the eye to the hat. As I clicked away, capturing those precious moments, I knew I had found a new favorite prop for my newborn photography sessions.

Reflections on the Experience

Knitting the Knotted Nightcap with Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light was a truly rewarding experience. The combination of a charming pattern and luxurious yarn resulted in a beautiful, functional piece that enhances my photography. This project reminded me of the joy of creating something special with my own hands, and the satisfaction of seeing it come to life in my photos.

For anyone looking to knit a unique and endearing photo prop for newborns, I highly recommend the Knotted Nightcap. The pattern is simple enough for beginners, yet offers enough interest for more experienced knitters. Pairing it with a high-quality yarn like Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light elevates the finished piece, making it a treasured addition to any photo session.

Final Thoughts

In the world of newborn photography, finding the perfect props can make all the difference. The Knotted Nightcap, with its charming design and the luxurious feel of Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light, has become a staple in my collection. It’s a project that brings joy in the making and even more joy in its use. Whether you’re a knitter looking for your next project or a photographer seeking the perfect accessory, the Knotted Nightcap is a delightful choice that will not disappoint.

Creating this hat has not only enriched my knitting repertoire but has also added a touch of magic to my photography sessions. Each stitch, each knot, and each moment captured in my lens is a testament to the timeless beauty of handmade creations. The Knotted Nightcap is more than just a hat; it’s a piece of art that holds memories, crafted with love and care.

Materials and Info

Materials: 140-300yd fingering (size 1) yarn (I used Madelinetosh toshmolight), size 3 dpn (or circular if using the magic loop method), yarn needle

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

Gauge: 6ts/in GAUGE IS VERY IMPORTANT!!! SWATCH FIRST!!!!

Stitch Abbreviations:
K – knit

p – purl

k2tog – knit 2 together

Knotted Nightcap Pattern

NEWBORN
Cast on 76sts.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 6 rounds.
Work in stockinette st until work measures 3ins from cast on edge.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k17, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (72sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k10, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (66sts)
Rounds 4-9 – knit around
Round 10 – [k9, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (60sts)
Rounds 11-16 – knit around
Round 17 – [k8, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (54sts)
Rounds 18-23 – knit around
Round 24 – [k7, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (48sts)
Rounds 25-30 – knit around
Round 31 – [k6, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (42sts)
Rounds 32-37 – knit around
Round 38 – [k5, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (36sts)
Rounds 39-44 – knit around
Round 45 – [k4, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (30sts)
Rounds 46-51 – knit around
Round 52 – [k3, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (24sts)
Rounds 53-58 – knit around
Round 59 – [k2, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (18sts)
Rounds 60-65 – knit round
Round 66 – [k4, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (15sts)
Knit for a further 4-5ins after your last decrease. Do not bind off. Cut yarn. Pull through remaining stitches and tie off. Weave in ends. Knot the top using the 4-5ins of length after you last decrease.

0-3 MONTHS
Cast on 84sts.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 6 rounds.
Work in stockinette st until work measures 3.5ins from cast on edge.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k10, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (77sts)
Rounds 2-7 – knit around
Round 8 – [k9, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (70sts)
Rounds 9-14 – knit around
Round 15 – [k8, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (63sts)
Rounds 16-21 – knit around
Round 22 – [k7, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (56sts)
Rounds 23-28 – knit around
Round 29 – [k6, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (49sts)
Rounds 30-35 – knit around
Round 36 – [k5, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (42sts)
Rounds 37-42 – knit around
Round 43 – [k4, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (35sts)
Rounds 44-49 – knit around
Round 50 – [k3, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (28sts)
Rounds 51-56 – knit around
Round 57 – [k2, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (21sts)
Rounds 58-63 – knit round
Round 64 – [k1, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (14sts)
Knit for a further 4-5ins after your last decrease. Do not bind off. Cut
yarn. Pull through remaining stitches and tie off. Weave in ends. Knot
the top using the 4-5ins of length after you last decrease.

3-6 MONTHS
Cast on 90sts.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 6 rounds.
Work in stockinette st until work measures 4ins from cast on edge.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k13, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (84sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k10, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (77sts)
Rounds 4-9 – knit around
Round 10 – [k9, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (70sts)
Rounds 11-16 – knit around
Round 17 – [k8, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (63sts)
Rounds 18-23 – knit around
Round 24 – [k7, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (56sts)
Rounds 25-30 – knit around
Round 31 – [k6, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (49sts)
Rounds 32-37 – knit around
Round 38 – [k5, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (42sts)
Rounds 39-44 – knit around
Round 45 – [k4, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (35sts)
Rounds 46-51 – knit around
Round 52 – [k3, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (28sts)
Rounds 53-58 – knit around
Round 59 – [k2, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (21sts)
Rounds 60-65 – knit round
Round 66 – [k1, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (14sts)
Knit for a further 4-5ins after your last decrease. Do not bind off. Cut yarn. Pull through remaining stitches and tie off. Weave in ends. Knot the top using the 4-5ins of length after you last decrease.

6-12 MONTHS
Cast on 96sts.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 6 rounds.
Work in stockinette st until work measures 4.5ins from cast on edge.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k10, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (88sts)
Rounds 2-7 – knit around
Round 8 – [k9, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (80sts)
Rounds 9-14 – knit around
Round 15 – [k8, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (72sts)
Rounds 16-21 – knit around
Round 22 – [k7, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (64sts)
Rounds 23-28 – knit around
Round 29 – [k6, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (56sts)
Rounds 30-35 – knit around
Round 36 – [k5, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (48sts)
Rounds 37-42 – knit around
Round 43 – [k4, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (40sts)
Rounds 44-49 – knit around
Round 50 – [k3, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (36sts)
Rounds 51-56 – knit around
Round 57 – [k2, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (24sts)
Rounds 58-63 – knit round
Round 64 – [k1, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (16sts)
Knit for a further 4-5ins after your last decrease. Do not bind off. Cut yarn. Pull through remaining stitches and tie off. Weave in ends. Knot the top using the 4-5ins of length after you last decrease.

TODDLER
Cast on 102sts.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 6 rounds.
Work in stockinette st until work measures 5ins from cast on edge.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k15, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (96sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k10, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (88sts)
Rounds 4-10 – knit around
Round 11 – [k9, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (80sts)
Rounds 12-18 – knit around
Round 19 – [k8, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (72sts)
Rounds 20-26 – knit around
Round 27 – [k7, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (64sts)
Rounds 28-34 – knit around
Round 35 – [k6, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (56sts)
Rounds 36-42 – knit around
Round 43 – [k5, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (48sts)
Rounds 44-50 – knit around
Round 51 – [k4, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (40sts)
Rounds 52-58 – knit around
Round 59 – [k3, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (36sts)
Rounds 60-66 – knit around
Round 67 – [k2, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (24sts)
Round 68-74 – knit around
Round 75 – [k1, k2tog] repeat from [to] around. (16sts)
Knit for a further 4-5ins after your last decrease. Do not bind off. Cut yarn. Pull through remaining stitches and tie off. Weave in ends. Knot the top using the 4-5ins of length after you last decrease.

Knotted Nightcap PDF