Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
When I first started knitting, I was instantly drawn to the delicate allure of mohair. Its ethereal softness and fluffy texture make it an irresistible choice for creating cozy, beautiful pieces. Over the years, I’ve explored countless patterns and yarns, but there’s something truly special about a project that marries simplicity with elegance. One such project that has become a favorite in my collection of newborn photo props is the Mohair Slouchy Hat, knitted in KnitPicks Aloft.
Discovering the Perfect Yarn
KnitPicks Aloft is a dreamy blend of 72% super kid mohair and 28% silk. The combination of these fibers results in a yarn that is both luxuriously soft and subtly lustrous. Aloft comes in a stunning array of colors, from soft pastels to vibrant jewel tones, making it perfect for a wide variety of projects. For my Mohair Slouchy Hat, I opted for a delicate blush pink, which beautifully complements the soft, tender features of a newborn.
The Joy of Knitting for Newborns
Knitting for newborns is one of the most rewarding experiences for any knitter. There’s something profoundly heartwarming about creating a tiny, delicate piece that will be part of a baby’s earliest memories. The Mohair Slouchy Hat, with its gentle drape and cozy fit, is designed to keep a newborn warm and snug. Its slouchy silhouette adds a touch of contemporary style while ensuring it’s comfortable for the baby to wear.
Why the Mohair Slouchy Hat?
The Mohair Slouchy Hat stands out for several reasons. Firstly, its texture is simply irresistible. The mohair’s natural fuzziness creates a halo effect, giving the hat a whimsical, cloud-like appearance. This makes it not only a practical piece for keeping a newborn warm but also an enchanting accessory for photo shoots. The hat’s slouchy design adds a modern twist to traditional baby hats, making it a favorite among photographers and parents alike.
Pairing with Mohair Shorts
One of the delightful aspects of this hat is how beautifully it pairs with the Mohair Shorts Pattern. The combination creates an adorable ensemble that is perfect for newborn photography. The shorts, also knitted in KnitPicks Aloft, feature the same soft texture and light, airy feel. Together, the hat and shorts make a charming set that highlights the delicate beauty of a newborn while providing the comfort and warmth they need.
Crafting the Hat
Knitting the Mohair Slouchy Hat is a joy in itself. The pattern is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginners. Yet, the finished product looks incredibly sophisticated, thanks to the luxurious yarn. Here’s a brief rundown of the process:
- Selecting Your Yarn and Needles: Choose your favorite shade of KnitPicks Aloft and pair it with the recommended needle size. The yarn is delicate, so using needles with smooth tips will help prevent any snags.
- Casting On and Ribbing: Begin with a simple ribbed edge to ensure a snug fit around the baby’s head. The ribbing also provides a nice contrast to the slouchy body of the hat.
- Knitting the Body: The body of the hat is knitted in the round, allowing you to enjoy the rhythmic, meditative process of knitting. The mohair glides smoothly through your fingers, and you’ll quickly see the hat take shape.
- Shaping the Crown: Gradually decrease to shape the crown, maintaining the hat’s elegant drape. The decreases are simple and straightforward, making this step a breeze.
- Finishing Touches: Once the knitting is complete, weave in any loose ends carefully. The halo effect of the mohair will help hide any imperfections, giving your hat a polished look.
The Impact of Handmade
There’s a special magic in handmade items, especially when they’re crafted with love and care. The Mohair Slouchy Hat isn’t just a practical accessory; it’s a keepsake that parents will cherish for years. Knowing that something I created can be part of a baby’s earliest moments is incredibly fulfilling. Every stitch carries a bit of my love and dedication, making the hat more than just a piece of clothing.
Photographing the Finished Piece
One of the highlights of knitting photo props is seeing them in action. When I gifted the Mohair Slouchy Hat and Mohair Shorts set to a friend for her newborn’s photo shoot, the results were enchanting. The soft, blush pink yarn looked beautiful against the baby’s skin, and the slouchy design added a whimsical touch to the photos. The photographer was thrilled with how the hat and shorts complemented each other, creating a cohesive, charming look.
Tips for Knitting with Mohair
Knitting with mohair can be a bit tricky due to its delicate nature, but with a few tips, you can make the process smoother:
- Use a Light Touch: Mohair is incredibly fine and can break if handled too roughly. Use a gentle touch while knitting.
- Mind the Tension: Keep an even tension to ensure a uniform appearance. This is especially important with mohair, as uneven tension can cause the halo effect to look patchy.
- Choose the Right Tools: Bamboo or wooden needles can provide better grip, preventing the yarn from slipping too much.
- Be Patient: If you need to frog (undo) your knitting, take it slow. Mohair fibers can catch on each other, making it difficult to unravel quickly.
Final Thoughts
The Mohair Slouchy Hat, paired with the Mohair Shorts, is a delightful project that brings together the best of both worlds: simplicity and elegance. KnitPicks Aloft provides the perfect yarn for this endeavor, offering a soft, luxurious feel that is gentle on a newborn’s delicate skin. Whether you’re knitting for your own little one, a friend, or for newborn photography props, this pattern is sure to become a favorite in your collection.
Creating this set has been a joyful experience for me, and I hope it brings as much happiness to you and the little ones who wear it. Happy knitting!
Materials and Info
Materials – one skein of lace weight mohair yarn (I used KnitPicks Aloft), size 6 (4mm) needles, stitch holder, yarn needle
Gauge – 5sts/in ~GAUGE IS VERY IMPORTANT!!! SWATCH FIRST!!!~
Stitch Key:
K – knit P – purl
k2tog – knit 2 together
Head circumference: nb (13ins). 0-3mths (14ins), 3-6mth
(15ins), 6-12mths (16ins)
Mohair Slouchy Pattern
Newborn
Cast on 60sts and join in the round.
k1p1 for 10 rounds
Work in stockinette st until work measures appx 6ins from cast on edge
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog k8] repeat from [to] around (54)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog k7] repeat from [to] around (48)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog k6] repeat from [to] around (42)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog k5] repeat from [to] around (36)
Round 8 – knit around
Round 9 – [k2tog k4] repeat from [to] around (30)
Round 10 – knit around
Round 11 – [k2tog k3] repeat from [to] around (24)
Round 12 – [k2tog k2] repeat from [to] around (18)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 8-10ins. Thread yarn onto yarn needle and pull through remaining stitches. Tie off. Weave in all ends.
0-3mths
Cast on 66sts and join in the round.
k1p1 for 10 rounds
Work in stockinette st until work measures appx 7ins from cast on edge
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog, k9] repeat from [to] around (60sts)
Round 2 – [k2tog k8] repeat from [to] around (54sts)
Round 3 – knit around
Round 4 – [k2tog k7] repeat from [to] around (48sts)
Round 5 – knit around
Round 6 – [k2tog k6] repeat from [to] around (42)
Round 7 – knit around
Round 8 – [k2tog k5] repeat from [to] around (36)
Round 9 – knit around
Round 10 – [k2tog k4] repeat from [to] around (30)
Round 11 – knit around
Round 12 – [k2tog k3] repeat from [to] around (24)
Round 13– [k2tog k2] repeat from [to] around (18)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 8-10ins. Thread yarn onto yarn needle and pull through remaining stitches. Tie off. Weave in all ends
3-6mths
Cast on 70sts and join in the round.
k1p1 for 12 rounds
Work in stockinette st until work measures appx 8ins from cast on edge
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog k8] repeat from [to] around (63)
Round 2– knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog k7] repeat from [to] around (56)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog k6] repeat from [to] around (49)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog k5] repeat from [to] around (42)
Round 8 – knit around
Round 9 – [k2tog k4] repeat from [to] around (35)
Round 10 – knit around
Round 11 – [k2tog k3] repeat from [to] around (28)
Round 12 – [k2tog k2] repeat from [to] around (21)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 8-10ins. Thread yarn onto yarn needle and pull through remaining stitches. Tie off. Weave in all ends.
6-12mths
Cast on 76sts and join in the round.
k1p1 for 12 rounds
Work in stockinette st until work measures appx 9ins from cast on edge
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog, k9] repeat from [to] around (70sts)
Round 2 – [k2tog k8] repeat from [to] around (63)
Round 3 – knit around
Round 4 – [k2tog k7] repeat from [to] around (56)
Round 5 – knit around
Round 6 – [k2tog k6] repeat from [to] around (49)
Round 7 – knit around
Round 8 – [k2tog k5] repeat from [to] around (42)
Round 9 – knit around
Round 10 – [k2tog k4] repeat from [to] around (35)
Round 11 – knit around
Round 12 – [k2tog k3] repeat from [to] around (28)
Round 13 – [k2tog k2] repeat from [to] around (21)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 8-10ins. Thread yarn onto yarn needle and pull through remaining stitches. Tie off. Weave in all ends.