Free Photo Prop Bonnet Pattern: Sammy Bonnet

Check out my favorite free photo prop bonnet pattern below! For more adorable options, head to my photo prop pattern page.

As a newborn knitting designer, nothing sparks my creative heart quite like a charming free photo prop bonnet pattern. Today, I’m super excited to share about the Sammy Bonnet—a dreamy design featuring subtle mohair stripes and adorable wide knit ties. The Sammy Bonnet itself is waiting at the bottom of this post, but if you’re looking for even more bonnet love, make sure to check out my full collection on my [photo prop pattern page].

Let’s jump into what makes this particular free photo prop bonnet pattern such a dreamy addition to your knitting stash.

Why You’ll Adore This Free Photo Prop Bonnet Pattern

Creating bonnets for newborn photo sessions is my jam, and the Sammy Bonnet hits all the right notes: delicate mohair accents, wide ties, and endless styling possibilities. Plus, it’s knitted with two gorgeous yarns: KnitPicks Aloft (affiliate link) for the soft mohair stripes, and Madelinetosh Pashmina (affiliate link) for everything else—can you say luxury?!

Quick safety note: Because of the long ties on this bonnet, always remember that baby should never be left unattended while wearing it!

Mohair Magic (Without the Stress)

Mohair yarn is like fluffy clouds spun into fiber—it’s seriously that soft! In this free photo prop bonnet pattern, I’ve chosen KnitPicks Aloft (affiliate link) because of its unbeatable softness and that dreamy halo effect. But let’s be honest, knitting with mohair can feel a little tricky at first, right?

Here’s my secret: Go slow, keep your tension even, and use wooden or bamboo needles for extra grip. Trust me—the results are worth every stitch. The subtle mohair stripes in this bonnet add a whisper of texture without overpowering the design.

Wide Knit Ties for the Win!

One feature I adore about this free photo prop bonnet pattern is the wide knit ties. They’re both functional (keeping the bonnet comfortably snug) and adorable. Whether tied in a simple bow, wrapped snugly, or loosely styled, these ties are designed to elevate every newborn photo setup.

When knitting the ties, I recommend Madelinetosh Pashmina (affiliate link), a yarn that is super soft and gentle on sensitive baby skin. Your little model will thank you for choosing such luxurious fibers—well, at least their parents will!

Tips for Knitting This Free Photo Prop Bonnet Pattern

Excited to dive in? Here are a few tips to ensure your bonnet turns out picture-perfect:

Yarn Choices: Stick to soft, high-quality yarns. My picks are KnitPicks Aloft (affiliate link) for those airy mohair stripes and Madelinetosh Pashmina (affiliate link) for the main bonnet. Your newborn photo shoots deserve luxury, after all!
Needles: Circular needles make knitting this bonnet seamless (literally!). DPNs can also be handy, especially for the ties.
Gauge Matters: Don’t skip your gauge swatch. Trust me, achieving the correct gauge ensures your bonnet fits beautifully.
Working with Mohair: Slow and steady knitting will prevent frustration. Mohair yarn can slip easily, but once you master the rhythm, it’s smooth sailing.
Blocking: Always block your finished bonnet. It evens stitches, highlights the gorgeous mohair stripes, and adds softness.

Styling Ideas for Your Free Photo Prop Bonnet Pattern

The Sammy Bonnet isn’t just versatile—it’s a photographer’s dream! Here are some sweet styling ideas:

Timeless Classic: Go minimalist with neutral outfits or simple white rompers. The mohair stripes and wide ties of this bonnet create an elegant yet subtle focal point.
Rustic Sweetness: Pair your bonnet with earthy textures or woodsy props. Think soft knitted blankets and cozy, muted colors. Picture perfect!
Seasonal Delight: Customize colors for the seasons—soft pastels for spring, rich hues for winter. With this free photo prop bonnet pattern, the possibilities are endless!
Whimsically Yours: Bright props? Adorable tiny animals? Go wild! This subtle bonnet complements bolder themes beautifully.

Handmade Happiness with this Free Photo Prop Bonnet Pattern

As a mom and knitting enthusiast myself, nothing compares to handmade baby items. There’s joy in every stitch—especially when knitting something as charming as this free photo prop bonnet pattern.

The Sammy Bonnet isn’t just a prop; it’s a keepsake made with love, care, and luxurious yarn. Whether you’re a photographer seeking unique props or a fellow knitter crafting gifts, this bonnet is bound to become a cherished heirloom.

Important Safety Reminder!

This bonnet is undeniably adorable, but safety always comes first. Due to the length of the wide knit ties, make sure that baby is never left unattended while wearing the bonnet. Safety ensures everyone can enjoy the photo session stress-free.

Ready to Knit Your Own Sammy Bonnet?

Feeling inspired? Good news—the Sammy Bonnet pattern is waiting for you right below! Remember, this pattern is designed to bring style and softness to your newborn photo sessions. And don’t forget: if you fall in love with this free photo prop bonnet pattern, you’ll find even more delightful designs on my [photo prop pattern page].

Now, grab your KnitPicks Aloft (affiliate link), Madelinetosh Pashmina (affiliate link), and your favorite needles—let’s get knitting!

Happy creating!

Materials and Info

MATERIALS: appx 80-160yds of sport (3) yarn (I used madelinetosh pashmina (affiliate link)), 20-40yds of mohair lace (0) yarn (I used knitpicks aloft (affiliate link)), Size 6 (4mm) needles, stitch markers, yarn needle

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)

Stitch Key
K – knit
p – purl
K2tog – knit 2 stitches together
MC – main color

Sammy Bonnet Pattern

NEWBORN
Cast on 176sts in MC.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl for 60sts, place marker, purl for 56sts, place marker, purl for the remaining 60sts.
Row 2 (right side) – knit across
Continue working in stockinette st (knitting the right side and purling the wrong side) until you have worked a total of 7 rows.
Bind off row – Bind off LOOSELY to the first marker, knit to next marker (leaving these stitches on your needle to be picked up again in the next row), bind off LOOSELY remaining stitches. In the bind off process you will remove all markers. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st starting with a wrong side row (purl row). Cut yarn.
Join MC work 8 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join MC and work in stockinette st until your work measures appx 4ins from cast on edge ending after completing a wrong side row.
DECREASES
Row 1 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (47sts) Place markers on both ends of this row and leave them on this row.
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (38sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (29sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (20sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (11sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the back tight. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible). Block as necessary.

0-3 MONTHS
Cast on 182sts in MC.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl for 60sts, place marker, purl for 62sts, place marker, purl for the remaining 60sts.
Row 2 (right side) – knit across
Continue working in stockinette st (knitting the right side and purling the wrong side) until you have worked a total of 7 rows.
Bind off row – Bind off LOOSELY to the first marker, knit to next marker (leaving these stitches on your needle to be picked up again in the next row), bind off LOOSELY remaining stitches. In the bind off process you will remove all markers. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st starting with a wrong side row (purl row). Cut yarn.
Join MC work 8 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join MC and work in stockinette st until your work measures appx 4.5ins from cast on edge ending after completing a wrong side row.
DECREASES
Row 1 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (52sts) Place markers on both ends of this row and leave them on this row.
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (42sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (32sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (22sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (12sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the back tight. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible). Block as necessary.

3-6 MONTHS
Cast on 188sts in MC.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl for 60sts, place marker, purl for 68sts, place marker, purl for the remaining 60sts.
Row 2 (right side) – knit across
Continue working in stockinette st (knitting the right side and purling the wrong side) until you have worked a total of 7 rows.
Bind off row – Bind off LOOSELY to the first marker, knit to next marker (leaving these stitches on your needle to be picked up again in the next row), bind off LOOSELY remaining stitches. In the bind off process you will remove all markers. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st starting with a wrong side row (purl row). Cut yarn.
Join MC work 8 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join MC and work in stockinette st until your work measures appx 5ins from cast on edge ending after completing a wrong side row.
DECREASES
Row 1 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (57sts) Place markers on both ends of this row and leave them on this row.
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (46sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (35sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (24sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (13sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the back tight. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible). Block as necessary.

6-12 MONTHS
Cast on 192sts in MC.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl for 60sts, place marker, purl for 72sts, place marker, purl for the remaining 60sts.
Row 2 (right side) – knit across
Continue working in stockinette st (knitting the right side and purling the wrong side) until you have worked a total of 7 rows.
Bind off row – Bind off LOOSELY to the first marker, knit to next marker (leaving these stitches on your needle to be picked up again in the next row), bind off LOOSELY remaining stitches. In the bind off process you will remove all markers. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st starting with a wrong side row (purl row). Cut yarn.
Join MC work 8 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join MC and work in stockinette st until your work measures appx 5.5ins from cast on edge ending after completing a wrong side row.
DECREASES
Row 1 – k1 [k2tog, k5] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (62sts) Place markers on both ends of this row and leave them on this row.
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (52sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (42sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (32sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (22sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11 – k1 [k2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (12sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the back tight. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible). Block as necessary.

TODDLER
Cast on 198sts in MC.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl for 60sts, place marker, purl for 78sts, place marker, purl for the remaining 60sts.
Row 2 (right side) – knit across
Continue working in stockinette st (knitting the right side and purling the wrong side) until you have worked a total of 7 rows.
Bind off row – Bind off LOOSELY to the first marker, knit to next marker (leaving these stitches on your needle to be picked up again in the next row), bind off LOOSELY remaining stitches. In the bind off process you will remove all markers. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st starting with a wrong side row (purl row). Cut yarn.
Join MC work 8 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join mohair yarn and work 3 rows in stockinette st. Cut yarn.
Join MC and work in stockinette st until your work measures appx 6ins from cast on edge ending after completing a wrong side row.
DECREASES
Row 1 – [k2tog, k11] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (72sts) Place markers on both ends of this row and leave them on this row.
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 [k2tog, k5] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (62sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 [k2tog, k4] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (52sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – k1 [k2tog, k3] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (42sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9 – k1 [k2tog, k2] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (32sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11 – k1 [k2tog, k1] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (22sts)
Row 12 – purl across
Row 13 – k1 [k2tog] repeat [to] across to last st, k1 (12sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the back tight. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible). Block as necessary.

Sammy Bonnet PDF

Sammy-Bonnet Download

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