Want to create a dreamy newborn photoshoot? This free photo prop hat pattern is a must-have! Find even more adorable knitting patterns for baby photography props here. Scroll down for this specific pattern at the bottom of the post!
The Perfect Free Photo Prop Hat Pattern for Newborn Photography
There’s something so magical about newborn photography. Those tiny fingers, sleepy yawns, and squishy little cheeks—every moment is a snapshot of pure sweetness. And if you’re like me, you want to make sure those early photos have the perfect touch of warmth and charm. That’s where a free photo prop hat pattern comes in!
I designed the Toasty Tot Photo Prop to be an easy, cozy, and adorable knitting project that adds just the right amount of texture and snugness to any newborn photoshoot. The best part? It’s completely free, and you can find it at the bottom of this post! But if you’re looking for even more free photo prop hat patterns, be sure to check out this collection.
A Free Photo Prop Hat Pattern That’s Both Stylish and Functional
Newborns are tiny, wiggly bundles of cuteness, but they also get cold fast. That’s why a good free photo prop hat pattern needs to do two things:
- Keep baby warm – Lion Brand Homespun (affiliate link) is the perfect yarn choice because it’s ultra-soft, plush, and has a slightly textured look that photographs beautifully.
- Stay snug but comfy – The earflaps on this design help the hat fit securely while adding an extra dose of adorable.
Whether you’re a professional newborn photographer or a parent hoping to capture some sweet DIY pictures at home, this pattern is a great choice.
Why Lion Brand Homespun (Affiliate Link) is the Best Yarn for This Free Photo Prop Hat Pattern
When I was designing this free photo prop hat pattern, I knew I needed a yarn that was:
- Soft enough for newborn skin – No scratchy fibers here! Lion Brand Homespun (affiliate link) is baby-friendly and oh-so-gentle.
- Textured for visual interest – The subtle boucle-like texture adds depth to the final piece, making it extra photogenic.
- Warm but lightweight – Newborns need warmth, but bulky yarns can be too heavy. Lion Brand Homespun (affiliate link) strikes the perfect balance.
If you don’t already have some in your stash, you can grab it here (affiliate link).
How This Free Photo Prop Hat Pattern Elevates Any Photoshoot
A well-knit photo prop isn’t just about keeping the baby warm—it also helps set the scene for stunning, professional-looking pictures. The Toasty Tot Photo Prop pairs well with:
- Rustic wooden backgrounds – The textured stitches stand out beautifully against natural wood tones.
- Fluffy blankets and baskets – Nestle baby in a soft setup, and this hat adds that perfect finishing touch.
- Seasonal themes – Whether you’re doing a winter wonderland shoot or a cozy autumn setup, this free photo prop hat pattern fits right in.
Can Beginners Knit This Free Photo Prop Hat Pattern?
Absolutely! This pattern is designed to be simple and approachable for knitters of all levels. If you can knit, purl, and work some basic shaping, you’ll be able to whip this up in no time. Plus, since newborn hats are so small, you’ll have a finished piece before you know it—instant gratification!
Tips for Knitting the Toasty Tot Photo Prop
- Choose the right needles – Because Lion Brand Homespun (affiliate link) is a bulkier yarn, you’ll want to use the recommended needle size to keep the stitches even.
- Watch your tension – This yarn is forgiving, but keeping a consistent gauge will help your hat turn out just right.
- Block it lightly – A gentle steam block will help smooth out the shape and make the stitches pop for the camera.
Get Even More Free Photo Prop Hat Patterns
If you love this free photo prop hat pattern, I’ve got great news—there are plenty more where that came from! I’ve put together a whole page of free photo prop hat patterns for every style and season. From delicate lace bonnets to chunky textured hats, there’s something for every newborn photoshoot.
Browse them all right here and get inspired for your next knitting project!
Ready to Knit? Grab This Free Photo Prop Hat Pattern Below!
Now that you know all the ways the Toasty Tot Photo Prop can make a newborn photoshoot even more adorable, it’s time to cast on! The pattern is waiting for you at the bottom of this post.
Don’t forget to share your finished hats with me—I’d love to see how you style them in your photoshoots! Happy knitting!
Toasty Tot Pattern
Materials
1 skein of Lion Brand Homespun, size 11 (8mm) double pointed needles, yarn
Gauge – 2.5sts/in – *Gauge is important. Be sure to check before starting.*
Sizes available (appx head size) – Newborn (13ins), 0-3mth (14ins), 3-6mth (15ins), 6-12mths (16ins), toddler (17ins)
Newborn
Cast on 32sts. Join in the round.
Round 1 – Purl around
Round 2 – Knit around
Repeat round 2 until you have worked appx 3.5ins from cast on edge.
Decrease round 1 – *K2tog K2* around (24sts)
Decrease round 2 – *K2tog K1* around (16sts)
Decrease round 3 – K2tog around (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving a 6-8in tail. Using a yarn needle, draw your yarn through the remaining 8sts.
Earflap
Pick up 6 sts
Rows 1-3 – Knit across
Row 4 – K2tog K2 K2tog (4sts)
Row 5 – Knit across
Row 6 – K2tog K2tog (2sts)
Row 7 – Knit across
Row 8 – K2tog
Cut yarn leaving a tail appx 15ins long. Pull through your remaining st.
Skip 10sts and repeat the earflap.
Cut 12 strands appx 30ins long for your braids. Use 6 strands on each earflap, pull a loop through the bottom of the earflap, pull the ends through the loop and braid, working your tail from the earflap into the braid.
0-3mths
Cast on 35sts. Join in the round.
Round 1 – Purl around
Round 2 – Knit around
Repeat round 2 until you have worked appx 4ins from cast on edge.
Decrease round 1 – K2tog K10 K2tog K10 K2tog K9 (32sts)
Decrease round 2 – *K2tog K2* around (24sts)
Decrease round 3 – *K2tog K1* around (16sts)
Decrease round 4 – K2tog around (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving a 6-8in tail. Using a yarn needle, draw your yarn through the remaining 8sts.
Earflap
Pick up 7 sts
Rows 1-3 – Knit across
Row 4 – K2tog K3 K2tog (5sts)
Row 5 – Knit across
Row 6 – K2tog K1 K2tog (3sts)
Row 7 – Knit across
Row 8 – K3tog
Cut yarn leaving a tail appx 15ins long. Pull through your remaining st.
Skip 11sts and repeat the earflap.
Cut 12 strands appx 30ins long for your braids. Use 6 strands on each earflap, pull a loop through the bottom of the earflap, pull the ends through the loop and braid, working your tail from the earflap into the braid.
3-6mths
Cast on 37sts. Join in the round.
Round 1 – Purl around
Round 2 – Knit around
Repeat round 2 until you have worked appx 4.5ins from cast on edge.
Decrease round 1 – K2tog k5, k2tog k6, k2tog k5, k2tog k6, k2tog k5 (32sts)
Decrease round 2 – *K2tog K2* around (24sts)
Decrease round 3 -*K2tog K1* around (16sts)
Decrease round 4 – K2tog around (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving a 6-8in tail. Using a yarn needle, draw your yarn through the remaining 8sts.
Earflap
Pick up 7 sts
Rows 1-3 – Knit across
Row 4 – K2tog K3 K2tog (5sts)
Row 5 – Knit across
Row 6 – K2tog K1 K2tog (3sts)
Row 7 – Knit across
Row 8 – K3tog
Cut yarn leaving a tail appx 15ins long. Pull through your remaining st.
Skip 12sts and repeat the earflap.
Cut 12 strands appx 30ins long for your braids. Use 6 strands on each earflap, pull a loop through the bottom of the earflap, pull the ends through the loop and braid, working your tail from the earflap into the braid.
6-12mths
Cast on 40sts. Join in the round.
Round 1 – Purl around
Round 2 – Knit around
Repeat round 2 until you have worked appx 5ins from cast on edge.
Decrease round 1 – *K2tog K3* around (32sts)
Decrease round 2 – *K2tog K2* around (24sts)
Decrease round 3 – *K2tog K1* around (16sts)
Decrease round 4 – K2tog around (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving a 6-8in tail. Using a yarn needle, draw your yarn through the remaining 8sts.
Earflap
Pick up 8 sts
Rows 1-3 – Knit across
Row 4 – K2tog K4 K2tog (6sts)
Row 5 – Knit across
Row 6 – K2tog K2 K2tog (4sts)
Row 7 – Knit across
Row 8 – K2tog K2tog (2sts)
Row 9 – Knit across
Row 10 – K2tog
Cut yarn leaving a tail appx 15ins long. Pull through your remaining st.
Skip 12sts and repeat the earflap.
Cut 12 strands appx 30ins long for your braids. Use 6 strands on each earflap, pull a loop through the bottom of the earflap, pull the ends through the loop and braid, working your tail from the earflap into the braid.
Toddler
Cast on 43sts. Join in the round.
Round 1 – Purl around
Round 2 – Knit around
Repeat round 2 until you have worked appx 5.5ins from cast on edge.
Decrease round 1 – *K2tog K12* 2 times K2tog K13 (40sts)
Decrease round 2 – *K2tog K3* around (32sts)
Decrease round 3 – *K2tog K2* around (24sts)
Decrease round 4 – *K2tog K1* around (16sts)
Decrease round 5 – K2tog around (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving a 6-8in tail. Using a yarn needle, draw your yarn through the remaining 8sts.
Earflap
Pick up 9 sts
Rows 1-3 – Knit across
Row 4 – K2tog K5 K2tog (7sts)
Row 5 – Knit across
Row 6 – K2tog K3 K2tog (5sts)
Row 7 – Knit across
Row 8 – K2tog K1 K2tog
Row 9 – Knit across
Row 10 – K3tog
Cut yarn leaving a tail appx 15ins long. Pull through your remaining st.
Skip 13sts and repeat the earflap.
Cut 12 strands appx 30ins long for your braids. Use 6 strands on each earflap, pull a loop through the bottom of the earflap, pull the ends through the loop and braid, working your tail from the earflap into the braid.
Download Toasty Tot PDF
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