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There’s something utterly magical about capturing the first moments of a newborn’s life. Parents cherish these memories, often immortalized in photos that become family heirlooms. One way to add a unique and personal touch to these precious photographs is by incorporating handmade props. Among the many adorable options available, ruffle shorts stand out as a charming and versatile addition to any newborn photo session.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the delightful world of knitting ruffle shorts as a newborn photo prop, why they make such a fantastic choice, and some tips to ensure your project turns out perfect without sharing the actual pattern.
The Appeal of Ruffle Shorts
Ruffle shorts are a wonderful blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal. Their playful design adds a touch of whimsy to newborn photography, creating a visual focal point that draws the eye. The soft, textured ruffles can be made from a variety of yarns, ensuring comfort for the baby while looking irresistibly cute.
Moreover, these shorts are versatile. They can be paired with simple tops, delicate headbands, or even left as the sole garment, emphasizing the natural beauty and innocence of the newborn. Their neutral design means they can be adapted to fit any theme or color scheme, making them a must-have for photographers and parents alike.
Choosing the Right Materials
The success of your ruffle shorts project starts with selecting the right materials. For newborn garments, comfort is paramount. Opt for soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic yarns. Cotton and bamboo blends are excellent choices, offering a gentle touch against delicate skin. If you prefer wool, ensure it’s of the highest quality, like merino wool, which is both soft and non-irritating.
When picking yarn, consider the color. Pastels are a popular choice for newborn photography, as they highlight the baby’s delicate features. However, don’t shy away from bolder hues if they fit the desired theme. Remember, the yarn’s texture and color will significantly influence the final look of the ruffle shorts.
Tools of the Trade
Once you’ve chosen your yarn, gather your knitting tools. A pair of circular needles is essential for this project, providing a seamless finish that’s comfortable for the baby. Double-pointed needles might also come in handy, especially for smaller details like the waistband and leg openings.
Stitch markers are invaluable for keeping track of your pattern, especially when working on the ruffles. A tape measure, yarn needle, and scissors round out your basic toolkit. As always, a good knitting project requires patience and attention to detail, so take your time to gather everything you need before starting.
Knitting Techniques and Tips
1. Creating the Base Shorts
The foundation of your ruffle shorts is a simple pair of knit shorts. Start by measuring the baby to ensure a good fit. Most patterns will provide guidelines based on standard newborn sizes, but personal measurements will ensure the best results. Knit the base shorts using a basic stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth and stretchy fabric.
2. Adding the Ruffles
Ruffles are what give these shorts their distinctive charm. They can be created using various techniques, but a common method involves picking up stitches around the leg openings and knitting in a series of increases to create the desired fullness. This process can be repeated in multiple layers for a more voluminous effect.
3. Waistband and Finishing Touches
A comfortable waistband is crucial for ensuring the shorts stay in place during the photo session. A ribbed waistband is an excellent choice, offering elasticity and a snug fit. You can also add a drawstring for adjustable sizing. Once the main components are complete, finish by weaving in all loose ends and blocking the shorts to set the stitches and ensure they maintain their shape.
Personalizing Your Creation
One of the joys of knitting is the ability to infuse your creations with personal touches. Consider adding small embellishments like bows, buttons, or lace to the ruffles. These details can make your ruffle shorts unique and tailored to the specific theme of the photo session.
For those who love a challenge, experimenting with different ruffle styles can add an extra dimension to your project. Layered ruffles, asymmetrical designs, or even contrasting colors can create a one-of-a-kind piece that stands out in photographs.
Caring for Your Knitted Ruffle Shorts
Once your ruffle shorts are complete, proper care is essential to maintain their beauty and functionality. Hand washing in cold water with a gentle detergent is recommended for delicate yarns. Avoid wringing out the shorts; instead, gently press out excess water and lay them flat to dry. Proper care will ensure the shorts remain soft and vibrant, ready for multiple photo sessions.
The Joy of Handmade Props
Knitting ruffle shorts for newborn photography props is more than just a craft; it’s a labor of love. Each stitch is a testament to the time and care invested in creating something beautiful and unique. These handmade pieces carry a personal touch that store-bought items can’t replicate, making them a cherished part of any photo session.
Moreover, the process of knitting can be incredibly fulfilling. It’s an opportunity to hone your skills, explore creative possibilities, and produce something tangible and meaningful. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or a beginner, the satisfaction of seeing your creation in a stunning photograph is unparalleled.
Conclusion
Ruffle shorts are a delightful addition to any newborn photo prop collection. Their whimsical design, combined with the softness and comfort of carefully chosen yarn, makes them a perfect choice for capturing those precious early moments. By following the tips and techniques outlined above, you can create a pair of ruffle shorts that are as functional as they are adorable.
Embrace the joy of knitting and the opportunity to contribute to a family’s cherished memories. Each pair of ruffle shorts you create will be a unique testament to your creativity and care, making every photo session even more special. Happy knitting!
Crafting these delightful pieces is not just about the end product, but the journey of creation and the joy it brings to both the maker and the recipient. Whether for your own little one or as a thoughtful gift, knitted ruffle shorts are sure to be a hit.
Materials and Info
Materials: 1 skein of Paton Lace (size 2), and size 9 (5.5mm) needles, size e (3.5mm) crochet hook (or 2 yards of lace edging of choice)
Gauge: 3.5sts/ins (gauge is very important)
Stitch Key
K – knit
P – purl
yo – yarn over
k2tog – knit 2 together
ssk – slip slip knit (slip sts purlwise)
sl – slip st knitwise
psso – pass slipped stitch over
(crochet abbreviations)
sl – slip st
ch – chain
dc – double chain
sc – single chain
Waist Circumference: nb (13ins). 0-3mths (14ins), 3-6mth (15ins), 6- 12mths (16ins), toddler (17ins)
Ruffle Shorts Pattern
Newborn
Cast on 44sts. Join in the round. Place marker at beginning of round.
Work in a k1p1 ribbing (k1p1 around on each round) for 6 rounds
Work in stockinette st for 3 rounds.
Ridge Round: p13, k19, p12
knit 3 rounds
Work (1 ridge round, 3 rounds knit) until you have a totally of 5 ridge rounds.
Work a short round as follows – knit 12, yo, turn your work, purl 23, yo, turn your work, knit to first yo, knit yo and next st together, knit to 1st before next yo, ssk using your yo as the second knit sts in the ssk, work to the end of the round.
Knit 1 round
Work a short round.
Continue working in stockinette st until work measures appx 5ins from cast on edge.
Gusset
Round 1: [place marker m1 k1 m1 place marker (the stitches between these markers are your gusset stitches) k21] repeat once more (48sts) the
Round 2: knit around
Cut yarn leaving appx 8-10ins. Slip the last 21sts you worked onto a st holder or scrap piece of yarn. Kitchener st the gusset stitches from the front and back together.(tutorial at the end of pattern)
Legs
Round 1 – knit 21sts, pick up 1st on the gusset (22sts)
Work in k1p1 for 6rounds.
Bind off using your favorite stretchy bind off.
Pick up the 21sts on your stitch holder and repeat from round 1 of legs.
Ruffles
You can simply sew a piece of lace on each set of ridges or crochet as follows:
Row 1: [ch1 (sc, ch2, dc2)] all in the first st of the ridge row. Work in every other ridge st.
Repeat on the next ridge row.
Weave in all ends.
0-3MTHS
Cast on 48sts. Join in the round. Place marker at beginning of round.
Work in a k1p1 ribbing (k1p1 around on each round) for 6 rounds
Work in stockinette st for 4 rounds.
Ridge Round: p14, k21, p13
knit 3 rounds
Work (1 ridge round, 3 rounds knit) until you have a totally of 5 ridge rounds.
Work a short round as follows – knit 13, yo, turn your work, purl 25, yo, turn your work, knit to first yo, knit yo and next st together, knit to 1st before next yo, ssk using your yo as the second knit sts in the ssk, work to the end of the round.
Knit 1 round
Work a short round.
Continue working in stockinette st until work measures appx 5.5ins from cast on edge.
Gusset
Round 1: [place marker m1 k1 m1 place marker (the stitches between these markers are your gusset stitches) k23] repeat once more (52sts) the
Round 2: knit around
Cut yarn leaving appx 8-10ins. Slip the last 23sts you worked onto a st holder or scrap piece of yarn. Kitchener st the gusset stitches from the front and back together.(tutorial at the end of pattern)
Legs
Round 1 – knit 23sts, pick up 1st on the gusset (24sts)
Work in k1p1 for 6rounds.
Bind off using your favorite stretchy bind off.
Pick up the 23sts on your stitch holder and repeat from round 1 of legs.
Ruffles
You can simply sew a piece of lace on each set of ridges or crochet as follows:
Row 1: [ch1 (sc, ch2, dc2)] all in the first st of the ridge row. Work in every other ridge st.
Repeat on the next ridge row.
Weave in all ends.
3-6MTHS
Cast on 52sts. Join in the round. Place marker at beginning of round.
Work in a k1p1 ribbing (k1p1 around on each round) for 7 rounds
Work in stockinette st for 4 rounds.
Ridge Round: p15, k23, p14
knit 3 rounds
Work (1 ridge round, 3 rounds knit) until you have a totally of 5 ridge rounds.
Work a short round as follows – knit 14, yo, turn your work, purl 27, yo, turn your work, knit to first yo, knit yo and next st together, knit to 1st before next yo, ssk using your yo as the second knit sts in the ssk, work to the end of the round.
Knit 1 round
Work a short round.
Continue working in stockinette st until work measures appx 6ins from cast on edge.
Gusset
Round 1: [place marker m1 k1 m1 place marker (the stitches between these markers are your gusset stitches) k25] repeat once more (56sts) the
Round 2: knit around
Cut yarn leaving appx 8-10ins. Slip the last 25sts you worked onto a st holder or scrap piece of yarn. Kitchener st the gusset stitches from the front and back together.(tutorial at the end of pattern)
Legs
Round 1 – knit 25sts, pick up 1st on the gusset (26sts)
Work in k1p1 for 7rounds.
Bind off using your favorite stretchy bind off.
Pick up the 25sts on your stitch holder and repeat from round 1 of legs.
Ruffles
You can simply sew a piece of lace on each set of ridges or crochet as follows:
Row 1: [ch1 (sc, ch2, dc2)] all in the first st of the ridge row. Work in every other ridge st.
Repeat on the next ridge row.
Weave in all ends.
6-12MTHS
Cast on 56sts. Join in the round. Place marker at beginning of round.
Work in a k1p1 ribbing (k1p1 around on each round) for 7 rounds
Work in stockinette st for 5 rounds.
Ridge Round: p16, k25, p15
knit 3 rounds
Work (1 ridge round, 3 rounds knit) until you have a totally of 6 ridge rounds.
Work a short round as follows – knit 15, yo, turn your work, purl 29, yo, turn your work, knit to first yo, knit yo and next st together, knit to 1st before next yo, ssk using your yo as the second knit sts in the ssk, work to the end of the round.
Knit 1 round
Work a short round.
Continue working in stockinette st until work measures appx 6.5ins from cast on edge.
Gusset
Round 1: [place marker m1 k1 m1 place marker (the stitches between these markers are your gusset stitches) k27] repeat once more (60sts) the
Round 2: knit around
Cut yarn leaving appx 8-10ins. Slip the last 27sts you worked onto a st holder or scrap piece of yarn. Kitchener st the gusset stitches from the front and back together.(tutorial at the end of pattern)
Legs
Round 1 – knit 27sts, pick up 1st on the gusset (28sts)
Work in k1p1 for 7rounds.
Bind off using your favorite stretchy bind off.
Pick up the 27sts on your stitch holder and repeat from round 1 of legs.
Ruffles
You can simply sew a piece of lace on each set of ridges or crochet as follows:
Row 1: [ch1 (sc, ch2, dc2)] all in the first st of the ridge row. Work in every other ridge st.
Repeat on the next ridge row.
Weave in all ends.
TODDLER
Cast on 60sts. Join in the round. Place marker at beginning of round.
Work in a k1p1 ribbing (k1p1 around on each round) for 8 rounds
Work in stockinette st for 5 rounds.
Ridge Round: p17, k27, p16
knit 3 rounds
Work (1 ridge round, 3 rounds knit) until you have a totally of 6 ridge rounds.
Work a short round as follows – knit 16, yo, turn your work, purl 31, yo, turn your work, knit to first yo, knit yo and next st together, knit to 1st before next yo, ssk using your yo as the second knit sts in the ssk, work to the end of the round.
Knit 1 round
Work a short round.
Continue working in stockinette st until work measures appx 7ins from cast on edge.
Gusset
Round 1: [place marker m1 k1 m1 place marker (the stitches between these markers are your gusset stitches) k29] repeat once more (64sts) the
Round 2: knit around
Cut yarn leaving appx 8-10ins. Slip the last 29sts you worked onto a st holder or scrap piece of yarn. Kitchener st the gusset stitches from the front and back together.(tutorial at the end of pattern)
Legs
Round 1 – knit 29sts, pick up 1st on the gusset (30sts)
Work in k1p1 for 8rounds.
Bind off using your favorite stretchy bind off.
Pick up the 29sts on your stitch holder and repeat from round 1 of legs.
Ruffles
You can simply sew a piece of lace on each set of ridges or crochet as follows:
Row 1: [ch1 (sc, ch2, dc2)] all in the first st of the ridge row. Work in every other ridge st.
Repeat on the next ridge row.
Weave in all ends.