purlJam

# **Baby Bonnet with Ties**
*A Simple Knitted Head Cover for Little Ones*

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## **MATERIALS**
- **Yarn:** 100g worsted weight yarn (DK/Light Worsted), soft and washable cotton or cotton blend recommended
- **Needles:** 4.5mm (UK 7, US 7) straight knitting needles
- **Notions:** Tapestry needle for sewing seams, scissors
- **Optional:** Stitch markers

**Yarn Suggestions:** Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, Sirdar Snuggly DK, or any machine-washable baby yarn

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## **GAUGE**
18 stitches and 24 rows = 10cm (4") in garter stitch (knit every row)

*Always knit a tension square! Correct gauge ensures proper fit for baby's head.*

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## **FINISHED SIZE**
- **Width:** 18cm (7") at widest point
- **Length:** 15cm (6") from cast-on edge to crown
- **Fits:** Newborn to 6 months
- **Head circumference:** Approximately 35-40cm (14-16")

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## **ABBREVIATIONS**
- **k** = knit
- **p** = purl  
- **st(s)** = stitch(es)
- **RS** = right side
- **WS** = wrong side
- **k2tog** = knit 2 stitches together (decrease)
- **kfb** = knit into front and back of same stitch (increase)
- **BO** = bind off (cast off)

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## **PATTERN**

### **Back Panel**
Cast on 32 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method.

**Rows 1-36:** Knit every row (garter stitch).

This creates a rectangular panel measuring approximately 15cm (6") long.

### **Crown Shaping**
**Row 37:** K6, k2tog, k16, k2tog, k6 (30 sts)
**Row 38:** Knit across
**Row 39:** K5, k2tog, k16, k2tog, k5 (28 sts)
**Row 40:** Knit across
**Row 41:** K4, k2tog, k16, k2tog, k4 (26 sts)
**Row 42:** Knit across
**Row 43:** K3, k2tog, k16, k2tog, k3 (24 sts)
**Row 44:** Knit across
**Row 45:** K2, k2tog, k16, k2tog, k2 (22 sts)
**Row 46:** Knit across
**Row 47:** K1, k2tog, k16, k2tog, k1 (20 sts)
**Row 48:** Knit across
**Row 49:** K2tog, k16, k2tog (18 sts)
**Row 50:** Knit across

Bind off all stitches.

### **Ear Flaps (Make 2)**
Cast on 12 stitches.
**Rows 1-8:** Knit every row
**Row 9:** K2tog, k8, k2tog (10 sts)
**Row 10:** Knit across
**Row 11:** K2tog, k6, k2tog (8 sts)
**Row 12:** Knit across
**Row 13:** K2tog, k4, k2tog (6 sts)
**Row 14:** Knit across

Do not bind off. Continue with tie.

### **Ties (attached to ear flaps)**
**Row 15:** K2tog, k2, k2tog (4 sts)
**Rows 16-60:** Knit every row (creates a 25cm/10" tie)

Bind off.

Repeat for second ear flap and tie.

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## **FINISHING**

### **Assembly:**
1. **Block pieces lightly** by laying flat on a towel, misting with water, and allowing to dry.

2. **Attach ear flaps:** Position ear flaps on each side of the main bonnet piece, approximately 5cm (2") from the cast-on edge. The straight edge of each ear flap should align with the side edge of the bonnet.

3. **Sew side seams:** Using a tapestry needle and matching yarn, sew the back seam of the bonnet from the crown shaping down to where the ear flaps are positioned.

4. **Secure ear flaps:** Stitch the ear flaps securely to the bonnet using mattress stitch or whip stitch.

5. **Weave in ends:** Use the tapestry needle to weave in all yarn ends on the wrong side of the work.

### **Care Instructions:**
Machine wash on gentle cycle in cool water. Lay flat to dry. Do not tumble dry.

### **Notes for Success:**
- This pattern uses simple garter stitch throughout, making it perfect for beginners
- The garter stitch creates a fabric that lies flat and has natural stretch
- Ear flaps can be positioned higher or lower depending on preference
- For a softer edge, you can pick up stitches around the face opening and knit 2-3 rows before binding off
- Consider making this in multiple colours using stripes - simply change yarn colour every 4-6 rows for a cheerful effect

**Finished bonnet should fit snugly but comfortably around baby's head with ties securing under the chin.**