EYELET LACE BOOTIES

Eyelet Lace Booties by Terry Morris

What is Being Made

These are delicate newborn booties designed for babies from newborn to 3 months old, with an approximate foot length of 3½ inches. The booties feature a charming combination of garter stitch construction with subtle eyelet lace details, making them versatile pieces that coordinate beautifully with matching lace bonnets and sweaters in a newborn's wardrobe.

Construction Method

The Eyelet Lace Booties are worked in one piece using both flat and in-the-round knitting techniques. The sole is knit flat using two double-pointed needles with a provisional cast-on method, while other sections transition to circular or in-the-round construction. This hybrid approach allows for efficient construction while maintaining the structural integrity of the finished bootie.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Garter stitch – Forms the primary fabric throughout the bootie, creating a soft, reversible texture with a gauge of 6.5 stitches per 1 inch
• Eyelet lace – Decorative openwork details that add visual interest while maintaining the bootie's delicate aesthetic
• Provisional cast-on – Used to begin the sole, allowing for seamless joining later in the construction
• Half-graft method – A specialized finishing technique similar to Kitchener stitch or regular grafting that uses a tapestry needle to complete the picot hem with a stretchy, flexible finish
• Make 1 lifted increase (m1) – Shaping increase used throughout the pattern
• Slip, slip, knit decrease (ssk) – Decrease technique for shaping

Materials and Tools

The booties are knitted using lace, light fingering, or sock yarn in either 3-ply or 4-ply weight. Knitters will need US Size 2 (2.75mm) needles or the appropriate size to achieve the specified gauge. Additional materials include 1 yard of smooth cotton waste yarn or string for the provisional cast-on, 1 yard of ¼-inch satin ribbon for decorative ties, and a tapestry needle for grafting and finishing work.

Design by Terry Morris

This pattern is created by Terry Liann Morris, known as SailingKnitter, an independent designer specializing in charming knitwear for infants and young children.