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!

Knitting is not just a hobby; it’s a way to weave memories and warmth into every stitch. In the realm of newborn photography, few accessories evoke the same sense of sweetness and nostalgia as a teddy bear bonnet. This charming little garment, with its adorable ears and cuddly charm, has become a beloved staple in photo shoots and family albums alike. Let’s explore the cuteness of the teddy bear bonnet and how it adds an extra layer of coziness to those precious moments with newborns.

Picture this: a tiny bundle of joy nestled snugly in a soft blanket, wearing a bonnet that transforms them into an irresistible little bear cub. The teddy bear bonnet is more than just a piece of clothing; it’s a symbol of innocence and childhood wonder. With its cozy design and playful details, it instantly elevates any photo session, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories.

What makes the teddy bear bonnet truly special is the craftsmanship behind it. Each bonnet is lovingly hand-knit, with every stitch infused with care and attention to detail. From selecting the perfect yarn to adding delicate embellishments, crafting a teddy bear bonnet is a labor of love. And as any knitter will tell you, there’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing your creation come to life, stitch by stitch.

Whether used as a prop in professional photo shoots or simply worn for cozy cuddles at home, the teddy bear bonnet has a way of capturing the essence of infancy. It’s a reminder of the fleeting nature of childhood and the importance of cherishing every moment. And as parents look back on those early days, they’ll be grateful for the memories preserved in each adorable photo.

The yarn used for crafting a teddy bear bonnet is a crucial element in bringing this adorable accessory to life. Opting for soft and gentle yarn is paramount, ensuring both comfort and coziness for the precious newborn wearer. Bulky weight yarn is favored for its balance of warmth and durability, providing a snug fit while remaining breathable. Additionally, choosing washable yarn ensures practicality for busy parents, allowing them to easily care for their little one’s cherished garment. That is why I chose to use KnitPicks Brava Bulky. When selecting colors, soft neutrals like beige, brown, or gray evoke the classic teddy bear aesthetic, while pastel hues add a touch of sweetness perfect for newborn photography. Ultimately, the yarn becomes more than just a material; it becomes a vessel for love and memories, woven into each stitch with care and consideration.

In a world filled with fleeting trends and disposable goods, the teddy bear bonnet stands as a timeless symbol of love and tradition. It’s a reminder of the simple joys of childhood and the beauty of handmade craftsmanship. So whether you’re a photographer looking to add a touch of whimsy to your sessions or a parent wanting to capture those fleeting moments with your little one, consider the adorableness of the teddy bear bonnet. After all, some memories are just too precious not to knit into existence.

You find the Swaddle Sack Pattern in all the photos here.

Teddy Bonnet Pattern

Materials: appx 50-90yd of bulky weight yarn (I used willow yarns daily which is discontinued but a great replacement is KnitPicks Brava Bulky), size 11 (8mm) straight and dpn needles, yarn needle

Gauge:  appx 2.75sts/inch – ~gauge is very important~

Stitch Key:

st – stitch                                          

co – cast on

k – knit                                             

k2tog – knit 2 together

yo – yarn over

Head circumference: nb (13ins). 0-3mths (14ins), 3-6mth (15ins), 6-12mths (16ins)

NEWBORN

CO 28sts.

Work in stockinette st for approximately 4ins ending after working a right side row.

(if you want to do striped as in the model photo than work 4 rows of each color throughout, switching without cutting yarn)

You will now start working in the round and need to switch to your dpn

Decreases

Round 1 – [k2tog, k2] around (21sts)

Round 2 – knit around

Round 3 – [k2tog, k1] around (14sts)

Round 4 – [k2tog] around (7sts)

Do not bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through all remaining sts.  Cinch tightly closed and tie off.  Cut 3 pieces of yarn appx 30ins long. Fold them in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the hood. Pull the ends through this loop and secure. Now braid loosely to desired length. Clip ends. Repeat on the other side.

Ears (make 2)

CO 10sts

Work in stockinette sts for 6 rows.

Do not bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through all remaining sts.  Cinch tightly closed and tie off.  Sew onto bonnet. (photo tutorial at the end of pattern)

0-3MTH

CO 30sts.

Work in stockinette st for approximately 4.5ins ending after working a right side row.

(if you want to do striped as in the model photo than work 4 rows of each color throughout, switching without cutting yarn)

You will now start working in the round and need to switch to your dpn

Decreases

Round 1 – [k2tog, k3] around (24sts)

Round 2 – knit around

Round 3 – [k2tog, k2] around (18sts)

Round 4 – [k2tog, k1] around (12sts)

Do not bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through all remaining sts.  Cinch tightly closed and tie off.  Cut 3 pieces of yarn appx 30ins long. Fold them in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the hood. Pull the ends through this loop and secure. Now braid loosely to desired length. Clip ends. Repeat on the other side.

Ears (make 2)

CO 10sts

Work in stockinette sts for 6 rows.

Do not bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through all remaining sts.  Cinch tightly closed and tie off.  Sew onto bonnet. (photo tutorial at the end of pattern)

3-6MTH

CO 33sts.

Work in stockinette st for approximately 5ins ending after working a right side row.

(if you want to do striped as in the model photo than work 4 rows of each color throughout, switching without cutting yarn)

You will now start working in the round and need to switch to your dpn

Decreases

Round 1 – [k2tog, k9] around (30sts)

Round 2 – [k2tog, k3] around (24sts)

Round 3 – [k2tog, k2] around (18sts)

Round 4 – [k2tog, k1] around (12sts)

Do not bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through all remaining sts.  Cinch tightly closed and tie off.  Cut 3 pieces of yarn appx 30ins long. Fold them in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the hood. Pull the ends through this loop and secure. Now braid loosely to desired length. Clip ends. Repeat on the other side.

Ears (make 2)

CO 10sts

Work in stockinette sts for 6 rows.

Do not bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through all remaining sts.  Cinch tightly closed and tie off.  Sew onto bonnet. (photo tutorial at the end of pattern)

6-12MTHS

CO 35sts.

Work in stockinette st for approximately 5.5ins ending after working a right side row.

(if you want to do striped as in the model photo than work 4 rows of each color throughout, switching without cutting yarn)

You will now start working in the round and need to switch to your dpn

Decreases

Round 1 – [k2tog, k3] around (28sts)

Round 2 – knit around

Round 3 – [k2tog, k2] around (21sts)

Round 4 – [k2tog, k1] around (14sts)

Round 5 – [k2tog] around (7sts)

Do not bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through all remaining sts.  Cinch tightly closed and tie off.  Cut 3 pieces of yarn appx 30ins long. Fold them in half and pull a loop through the front corner of the hood. Pull the ends through this loop and secure. Now braid loosely to desired length. Clip ends. Repeat on the other side.

Ears (make 2)

CO 12sts

Work in stockinette sts for 8 rows.

Do not bind off.  Cut yarn and pull through all remaining sts.  Cinch tightly closed and tie off.  Sew onto bonnet. (photo tutorial at the end of pattern)

Teddy Ear Tutorial