Sugar or Spice

Sugar or Spice Baby Bonnet by Amanda Buckley

What is Being Made

Sugar or Spice is a quick and easy baby bonnet pattern designed by Amanda Buckley for knitters of all skill levels. This downloadable knitting pattern offers two distinct versions: Version A features a sweet, girly aesthetic with an eyelet row perfect for threading decorative ribbon, while Version B includes i-cord ties and works beautifully for both boys and girls. Both versions are beginner-friendly projects that can be completed quickly, making them ideal for creating multiple gifts for babies and young children.

Techniques Used

This bonnet pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The construction uses knitting in the round, a core technique that creates seamless, tubular fabric ideal for hat construction. The pattern incorporates decreasing techniques to shape the bonnet crown and achieve the proper fit. Version A includes an eyelet row, a decorative openwork technique created by strategic yarn overs and decreases, allowing ribbon to be threaded through for added embellishment. Version B requires i-cord construction, a technique for creating small, cord-like ties that frame the bonnet's opening.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch – the primary stitch throughout the bonnet, created by knitting all rounds when working in the round, producing a smooth, classic fabric
• Garter stitch – used in flat knitting sections, created by knitting every row for a textured, reversible finish
• K2tog (knit 2 together) – a right-leaning decrease used to shape the bonnet
• SSK (slip, slip, knit) – a left-leaning decrease that pairs with K2tog for balanced shaping
• Yarn overs – used in the eyelet row of Version A to create decorative openings for ribbon threading

Materials and Tools

The pattern calls for Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran yarn, a luxurious blend ideal for baby garments. Version A uses shade 102, while Version B uses shade 028. One ball of yarn is sufficient to complete either version. Essential needles and tools include a 4.5mm circular needle measuring 40cm for the main bonnet construction, a 4.5mm set of double-pointed needles for Version A, and a tapestry needle for Version B finishing. A stitch marker helps track rounds during in-the-round knitting. Version A requires a length of ribbon of your choice for threading through the eyelet row. The gauge is 5 stitches per inch over stockinette stitch, ensuring proper fit and fabric drape for the finished bonnet.