Marlais

Marlais Newborn Knit Collection by Sheep Can't Knit or Crochet

Project Overview

The Marlais is a comprehensive newborn knitting pattern set designed by Suzanne Rossignol that includes five coordinated pieces: a collared short-sleeve knickers-style romper, a long-tail beanie with pompom, little slippers, a heart lovey, and a bear lovey. This intermediate-level knitting project is ideal for crafters looking to create a complete newborn gift set or layette collection.

What Is Being Made

• Collared Short-Sleeve Knickers-Style Romper: A charming one-piece garment featuring a collar and short sleeves with a knickers (shorts) style leg opening, designed specifically for newborn sizing
• Long-Tail Beanie with Pompom: A classic newborn hat featuring a long tail design and decorative pompom topper
• Little Slippers: Coordinating footwear pieces to complete the newborn set
• Heart and Bear Lovies: Small comfort toys or security blankets featuring heart and bear motifs

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental to intermediate knitting techniques suitable for crafters with some experience. The construction utilizes circular needles for seamless or nearly seamless construction throughout the romper. Techniques include basic increases such as knit-front-and-back (K1FB) for shaping, and the pattern incorporates both knit and purl stitches for texture and stitch definition. The beanie construction involves working in the round and attaching a pompom finish.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k): The fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl (p): Used for textural contrast and stitch definition
• Knit 1 Front and Back (K1FB): An increase stitch used for shaping the garment pieces

Materials and Specifications

This pattern is designed for DK weight yarn, which creates a lightweight, delicate fabric appropriate for newborn wear. The original design uses two yarn colors: Nako Paris in colour #300 and James C Brett Double Knitting with Merino in colour #DM11, allowing for creative two-color work and color blocking throughout the set. A partial ball of each color is sufficient for completion.

Needles and Tools Required:

• Size 4mm (US 6) circular needle in 16-inch length for primary construction
• 4.5mm crochet hook for finishing details and construction of certain pieces
• Darning needle for weaving in ends and seaming
• 4 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping
• 9 small buttons of choice for garment closures

Gauge: The pattern is worked at a gauge of 21 stitches by 30 rows over a 4-inch square, which is essential for achieving proper newborn sizing and fit.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as an intermediate difficulty pattern, the Marlais collection is best suited for knitters who have completed several projects and are comfortable with basic shaping techniques, circular needle work, and color changes. The pattern provides a rewarding project for those seeking to expand their skills while creating practical, beautiful newborn garments and accessories.