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Welcoming a newborn into the world is an experience filled with joy, wonder, and countless cherished moments. As parents, we want to capture every precious second, immortalizing them in photographs that we can treasure for years to come. For many, the perfect photo prop is essential to these keepsake images, and nothing quite compares to the delicate charm of a hand-knitted bonnet. Enter the Shiloh Bonnet – a stunning free knitting pattern designed specifically for newborn photo sessions. Crafted with KnitPicks Aloft yarn, this mohair cable bonnet is sure to become a favorite among photographers and parents alike.
The Inspiration Behind the Shiloh Bonnet
The Shiloh Bonnet was inspired by the timeless beauty of classic newborn photography. Its intricate cable design and soft, airy texture evoke a sense of vintage elegance while remaining contemporary and stylish. Named after the Hebrew word for “peace,” the Shiloh Bonnet embodies the serene and tranquil moments of a sleeping newborn, wrapped in the love and warmth of a handmade creation.
Why Choose KnitPicks Aloft Yarn?
When it comes to choosing the perfect yarn for newborn photo props, softness and delicacy are paramount. KnitPicks Aloft yarn, a luxurious blend of 72% Super Kid Mohair and 28% Silk, meets these criteria effortlessly. Here’s why this yarn is the ideal choice for the Shiloh Bonnet:
- Unmatched Softness: Mohair is renowned for its incredibly soft and silky texture, making it gentle against a newborn’s delicate skin. The addition of silk enhances this softness, ensuring that the bonnet is comfortable for your little one.
- Lightweight and Airy: KnitPicks Aloft yarn is incredibly lightweight, creating a bonnet that is both cozy and breathable. This is particularly important for newborn photo sessions, where comfort is key to capturing those peaceful sleeping poses.
- Elegant Sheen: The silk content in the yarn adds a subtle sheen, giving the Shiloh Bonnet a touch of sophistication and making it stand out in photographs.
- Variety of Colors: Available in a wide range of colors, KnitPicks Aloft yarn allows you to customize the Shiloh Bonnet to suit any photo session theme or color scheme. Whether you prefer classic neutrals or vibrant hues, there’s a shade to match your vision.
You can purchase the yarn for this project here.
The Beauty of Cable Knitting
The Shiloh Bonnet features an intricate cable pattern that adds depth and texture to the design. Cable knitting, a technique that involves crossing stitches to create raised patterns, can seem daunting to beginners, but the results are well worth the effort. Here’s why cable knitting enhances the beauty of this bonnet:
- Timeless Appeal: Cable patterns are a staple in traditional knitting, often seen in heirloom pieces passed down through generations. Incorporating cables into the Shiloh Bonnet lends it a timeless quality that will never go out of style.
- Visual Interest: The raised texture of cable stitches adds visual interest to the bonnet, making it a focal point in photographs. The interplay of light and shadow on the cables creates a dynamic and captivating effect.
- Structural Integrity: Cables not only look beautiful but also add structure to the bonnet. This helps it maintain its shape, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for your newborn.
Crafting the Shiloh Bonnet
While we won’t delve into the specific pattern details here, it’s important to highlight a few key aspects of knitting the Shiloh Bonnet:
- Gauge and Swatching: Achieving the correct gauge is crucial for ensuring the bonnet fits properly. Knit a swatch before starting your project to match the recommended gauge.
- Tools and Materials: In addition to KnitPicks Aloft yarn, you’ll need a set of circular or double-pointed needles in the appropriate size, a cable needle, and stitch markers. These tools will help you navigate the cable pattern with ease.
- Techniques: Familiarize yourself with basic cable knitting techniques, such as holding stitches to the front or back of your work. Practice these techniques on a small swatch before diving into the bonnet.
- Finishing Touches: After completing the bonnet, take the time to block it gently. Blocking helps even out the stitches and enhances the overall appearance of the cables. Use a blocking mat and pins to shape the bonnet to the desired dimensions.
Tips for a Successful Newborn Photo Session
Once you’ve crafted the Shiloh Bonnet, you’ll want to ensure it shines in your newborn photo session. Here are a few tips to help you capture beautiful images:
- Timing: Schedule the photo session within the first two weeks of your baby’s life. Newborns are typically sleepier and more pliable during this period, making it easier to pose them in the bonnet.
- Lighting: Natural light is your best friend when photographing newborns. Choose a well-lit room with ample natural light, and avoid using harsh artificial lighting that can create unflattering shadows.
- Background and Props: Keep the background simple and uncluttered to keep the focus on your baby and the bonnet. Soft blankets, baskets, and other neutral props can complement the Shiloh Bonnet beautifully.
- Patience and Flexibility: Newborn photography requires patience and flexibility. Be prepared for breaks to feed, change, or soothe your baby. A relaxed and calm environment will help you capture those serene moments.
Conclusion
The Shiloh Bonnet is more than just a knitting project; it’s a labor of love that celebrates the beauty of newborn life. With its intricate cable design, luxurious KnitPicks Aloft yarn, and timeless appeal, this bonnet is the perfect accessory for capturing precious moments. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or new to the craft, creating the Shiloh Bonnet will be a rewarding experience, culminating in a cherished keepsake that you and your family will treasure for years to come.
So gather your yarn, needles, and a cup of tea, and embark on the journey of knitting the Shiloh Bonnet. As you do, you’ll be creating not just a beautiful photo prop, but a piece of art that encapsulates the love and warmth of welcoming a new life into the world. Happy knitting!
Materials and Info
Materials: 60-150 yds of lace weight (size 0) mohair yarn (I used knitpicks aloft), size 7 (4.5mm) straight needles, cable needle, yarn needle, 2 stitch markers
Gauge: 5sts/in ~GAUGE IS VERY IMPORTANT~
Abbreviation Key:
K – knit
P – purl
k2tog – knit 2 together
cf4- slip next 2sts onto cable needle, k next 2 sts, k2 sts from cable needle
Head circumference: nb (13ins). 0-3mths (14ins), 3-6mth (15ins), 6- 12mths (16ins)
Shiloh Bonnet Pattern
NEWBORN
Cast on 64sts.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl across
Row 2 – knit across
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k1 (k2, cf4) repeat (to) across to last 3 sts, k3
Row 5 – purl across
Row 6- knit across
Repeat rows 1-6 across to 3.75ins ending after completing a wrong side (purl) row.
Place stitch markers on either end of the last row worked.
Decreases
Row 1 – k1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 (62sts)
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 (11sts)
Cut yarn leaving appx 12ins and pull through remaining stitches. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold 3 in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop. Braid.
Repeat on the other front corner.
0-3 MONTHS
Cast on 70sts.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl across
Row 2 – knit across
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k1 (k2, cf4) repeat (to) across to last 3 sts, k3
Row 5 – purl across
Row 6- knit across
Repeat rows 1-6 across to 4.25ins ending after completing a wrong side (purl) row.
Place stitch markers on either end of the last row worked.
Decreases
Row 1 – k1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 (68sts)
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 (k2tog, k4) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (57sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 (k2tog, k3) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (46sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7– k1 (k2tog, k2) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (35sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9– k1 (k2tog, k1) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (24sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11– k1 (k2tog) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (13sts)
Cut yarn leaving appx 12ins and pull through remaining stitches. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold 3 in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop. Braid.
Repeat on the other front corner.
3-6 MONTHS
Cast on 76sts.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl across
Row 2 – knit across
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k1 (k2, cf4) repeat (to) across to last 3 sts, k3
Row 5 – purl across
Row 6- knit across
Repeat rows 1-6 across to 4.75ins ending after completing a wrong side (purl) row.
Place stitch markers on either end of the last row worked.
Decreases
Row 1 – k1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 (74sts)
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – k1 (k2tog, k4) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (62sts)
Row 4 – purl across
Row 5 – k1 (k2tog, k3) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (50sts)
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7– k1 (k2tog, k2) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (38sts)
Row 8 – purl across
Row 9– k1 (k2tog, k1) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (26sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11– k1 (k2tog) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (14sts)
Cut yarn leaving appx 12ins and pull through remaining stitches. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold 3 in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop. Braid.
Repeat on the other front corner.
6-12 MONTHS
Cast on 82sts.
Row 1 (wrong side) – purl across
Row 2 – knit across
Row 3 – purl across
Row 4 – k1 (k2, cf4) repeat (to) across to last 3 sts, k3
Row 5 – purl across
Row 6- knit across
Repeat rows 1-6 across to 5.25ins ending after completing a wrong side (purl) row.
Place stitch markers on either end of the last row worked.
Decreases
Row 1 – k1 (k2tog, k6) repeat (to) across to last st, k1 (72sts)
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 sts, k1 (32sts)
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11– k1 (k2tog, k1) repeat (to) across to last sts, k1 (22sts)
Row 12 – purl across
Row 13– k1 (k2tog) repeat (to) across to last sts, k1 (12sts)
Cut yarn leaving appx 12ins and pull through remaining stitches. Using this end sew the crown together to your stitch markers. (I like to use the mattress stitch since it is nearly invisible).
Cut 6 pieces of yarn approximately 30ins long. Fold 3 in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the bonnet. Pull the ends through this loop. Braid.
Repeat on the other front corner.