As a knitting enthusiast and photographer, I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting projects to combine my two passions. There’s something truly special about creating unique photo props for newborns, especially when they align with the season. This winter, I decided to design a snowman beanie for newborns—a whimsical and heartwarming hat that brings the magic of a snowy day indoors.
The snowman beanie is not just any ordinary hat; it’s a delightful photo prop that adds a touch of festive cheer to your newborn photography sessions. Picture a tiny baby, cozy and warm, adorned with a charming beanie that boasts a snowman face made from buttons, complete with optional knit earmuffs. The image alone brings a smile to my face, and I hope it will do the same for you.
The Inspiration Behind the Snowman Beanie
Winter has always held a special place in my heart. There’s a serene beauty in the blanket of snow covering the ground, the crispness in the air, and the joy of building snowmen. When thinking about my next knitting project, I wanted to capture this essence and create something that would evoke those same feelings. Thus, the idea of a snowman beanie was born.
As I brainstormed, I envisioned a hat that was not only practical but also adorable. The idea of using buttons for the eyes and nose came naturally, giving the beanie a classic snowman look. Adding the option for knit earmuffs was an extra touch to make the beanie stand out and provide a cozy, whimsical feel.
Materials and Preparation
Before diving into the knitting process, I gathered all the materials I would need. For this project, I chose a soft, white yarn for the beanie itself. Softness and comfort are paramount when knitting for newborns, so selecting the right yarn was crucial. I also picked out black buttons for the eyes and a bright orange one for the carrot nose. For the optional earmuffs, I selected a contrasting color to add a playful touch.
I recommend using a yarn that is both gentle on a baby’s skin and machine washable for easy care. When choosing buttons, make sure they are securely attached to avoid any choking hazards.
The Knitting Process
Knitting the snowman beanie was a delightful experience. As I worked, I could almost see the finished product in my mind, and it kept me motivated. The basic beanie pattern is simple and quick to knit, making it perfect for knitters of all skill levels.
Starting with a ribbed brim to ensure a snug fit, I then moved on to the body of the beanie, working in the round. The repetitive motion of knitting was meditative, and I found myself lost in the rhythm, envisioning the smiling faces of parents and their newborns who would wear this hat.
Once the beanie was complete, I carefully stitched on the buttons for the eyes and nose, making sure they were secure and symmetrical. Seeing the snowman’s face come to life was incredibly rewarding. The final touch was adding the optional knit earmuffs, which added a splash of color and an extra layer of warmth.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
With the snowman beanie complete, it was time to put it to the test in a newborn photography session. As a photographer, I know that the right props can transform a simple photo into a treasured memory. The snowman beanie did not disappoint.
I set up a winter-themed backdrop with soft blankets and faux snow to create a cozy, wintry scene. Placing the beanie on a sleeping newborn, I was struck by how adorable and perfect it looked. The hat framed the baby’s face beautifully, and the snowman features added a touch of whimsy that was irresistible.
The parents were thrilled with the photos, and their joy was contagious. Seeing their reactions reminded me of why I love combining my knitting and photography skills. There’s a unique satisfaction in creating something with my own hands and then using it to capture precious moments.
Sharing the Joy
One of the best parts about designing this snowman beanie is sharing the pattern with other knitters. I believe that creativity is meant to be shared, and providing a free knitting pattern allows others to experience the same joy I felt in making this hat. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just starting, this pattern is accessible and fun.
I’ve shared the pattern on my blog, and I’ve loved seeing the different variations that other knitters have created. Some have added their own touches, like tiny scarves or different colored earmuffs, making each snowman beanie unique. The knitting community is incredibly supportive and creative, and it’s been wonderful to be a part of it.
Final Thoughts
Creating the snowman beanie has been a heartwarming journey from start to finish. It’s a project that encapsulates the joy and magic of winter, bringing a smile to anyone who sees it. As a knitter, there’s nothing more fulfilling than creating something beautiful and functional. As a photographer, there’s nothing more rewarding than capturing those creations in moments that families will cherish forever.
I hope this snowman beanie brings as much joy to your knitting and photography sessions as it has brought to mine. Whether you’re knitting it for your own newborn, as a gift, or to use in your photography business, I’m sure it will be a hit. Happy knitting, and may your winter be filled with warmth, creativity, and lots of snowy fun!
Materials and Info
Materials – 60-120yds of bulky weight (size 5) yarn, appx 20yds of worsted weight (size 4 yarn) for the earmuffs, snowman buttons, yarn needle, size 10.5 (6.5mm) double pointed needles, size 8 (5mm) double pointed needles
Gauge – with bulky yarn and large needles – 3sts/in
Stitch Key
k – knit
p – purl
k2tog – knit 2 together
Snowman Beanie Pattern
Newborn
Cast on 39sts in bulky weight yarn using your larger sized needles.
Rounds 1-4 – [k2p1] around
Increase 1 stitch, k around (40sts)
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 4ins from cast on edge.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog k3] around (32sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog k2] around (24sts)
Round 4 – [k2tog k1] around (16sts)
Round 5 – [k2tog] around (8sts)
Using a needle and thread sew on the snowman face buttons. If you would like your snowman without earmuffs this is where you will stop. For earmuffs see the end of the pattern.
0-3mths
Cast on 42sts in bulky weight yarn using your larger sized needles.
Rounds 1-4 – [k2p1] around
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 4ins from cast on edge.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog k4] (34sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog k3] around (28sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog k2] around (21sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog k1] around (14sts)
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (7sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Using a needle and thread sew on the snowman face buttons. If you would like your snowman without earmuffs this is where you will stop. For earmuffs see the end of the pattern.
3-6mths
Cast on 45sts in bulky weight yarn using your larger sized needles.
Rounds 1-5 – [k2p1] around
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 4.5ins from cast on edge.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog k13] (42sts)
Round 2 – [k2tog k4] (34sts)
Round 3 – knit around
Round 4 – [k2tog k3] around (28sts)
Round 5 – [k2tog k2] around (21sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog k1] around (14sts)
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (7sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Using a needle and thread sew on the snowman face buttons. If you would like your snowman without earmuffs this is where you will stop. For earmuffs see the end of the pattern.
6-12mths
Cast on 48sts in bulky weight yarn using your larger sized needles.
Rounds 1-5 – [k2p1] around
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 5ins from cast on edge.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog k4] (40sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog k3] around (32sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog k2] around (24sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog k1] around (16sts)
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Using a needle and thread sew on the snowman face buttons. If you would like your snowman without earmuffs this is where you will stop. For earmuffs see the end of the pattern.
Toddler
Cast on 51sts in bulky weight yarn using your larger sized needles.
Rounds 1-6 – [k2p1] around
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 5.25ins from cast on edge.
Decreases
Round 1 – [k2tog k15] around (48sts)
Round 2 – [k2tog k4] (40sts)
Round 3 – knit around
Round 4 – [k2tog k3] around (32sts)
Round 5 – knit around
Round 6 – [k2tog k2] around (24sts)
Round 7 – [k2tog k1] around (16sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Using a needle and thread sew on the snowman face buttons. If you would like your snowman without earmuffs this is where you will stop. For earmuffs see the end of the pattern.
Child
Cast on 54sts in bulky weight yarn using your larger sized needles.
Rounds 1-6 – [k2p1] around
Continue working in stockinette st until your work measures 5.75ins from cast on edge.
Decreases
Round 2 – [k2tog k4] (45sts)
Round 3 – knit around
Round 4 – [k2tog k3] around (36sts)
Round 5 – knit around
Round 6 – [k2tog k2] around (27sts)
Round 7 – [k2tog k1] around (18sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (9sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Using a needle and thread sew on the snowman face buttons. If you would like your snowman without earmuffs this is where you will stop. For earmuffs see the end of the pattern.
If you want to stop here this is what your hat will look like
Earmuffs for newborn – 3-6mths (make 2)
Cast on 40sts using your worsted weight yarn and smaller needles leaving a long tail (apps 18-24ins) to sew muffs onto hat.
Round 1 &2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog] around (20sts)
Round 4–6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog] 10sts
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Sew onto your snowman on either side of the face.
Earmuffs for 6-12mths – child (make 2)
Cast on 48sts using your worsted weight yarn and smaller needles leaving a long tail (apps 18-24ins) to sew muffs onto hat.
Round 1-3 – knit around
Round 4 – [k2tog] around (24sts)
Round 5–7 – knit around
Round 8 – [k2tog] 12sts
Do not bind off. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Sew onto your snowman on either side of the face.
Band (between muffs)
Cast on 5 sts in bulky weight yarn using your smaller needles leaving appx 8ins to sew the band onto the hat.
Knit every row until your band reaches from one ear muff to the other without being stretched. Bind off leaving appx 8ins to sew band onto hat. Sew the band so it is touching from the top of one earmuff to the other.