Down with Pigs Bib

Down with Pigs Bib by Kathleen Sperling

What is Being Made

The Down with Pigs Bib is a practical and charming knitted baby bib designed by Kathleen Sperling. This reversible bib features a playful design that combines functionality with personality, making it both a practical feeding accessory and a conversation piece for parents who appreciate geeky style. The bib is sized to fit most babies, with finished measurements of approximately 8.25 inches wide by 13 inches in length when laid flat, and is designed to fit head circumferences up to about 17.5 inches.

Key Features and Design Advantages

• Reversible construction: The bib can be flipped to a clean side for the next feeding, extending the time between washes
• Double-thick fabric: The doubled construction provides extra absorbency, making it highly functional for messy mealtimes
• Pull-over design: The bib fits on over the baby's head rather than using closures, making it difficult for infants to remove themselves
• One-size-fits-all approach: The generous sizing accommodates most babies without requiring multiple pattern sizes

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level knitting project uses double knitting as its primary technique. Double knitting creates a reversible, two-sided fabric by working with two colors simultaneously, allowing both sides of the bib to be finished and decorative. The pattern employs stocking stitch, a fundamental knit stitch that creates a smooth, classic fabric texture on the right side with horizontal bumps on the reverse.

The double-knit construction means that knitters work with two yarn colors in a coordinated manner throughout the project, creating the reversible effect without seaming. This technique requires attention to yarn management and understanding how to carry colors appropriately to maintain even tension and fabric quality.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Down with Pigs Bib is worked in worsted weight yarn, requiring approximately 68 yards total of yarn in two colors. The model shown uses Bernat Handicrafter Cotton, a 100% cotton yarn available in 50-gram skeins yielding 73 meters or 80 yards per skein. The original design features Bernat Handicrafter Cotton in white (#00001) and country red (#13530), creating a classic color combination with thematic appeal.

Knitting is performed on 4.5mm circular needles, with the needle length being at least long enough to accommodate the stitches comfortably. The pattern specifies a gauge of 31 stitches and 22.5 rows over 4 inches in double knitting stocking stitch on 4.5mm needles, though exact gauge is noted as not critical since bibs do not require precise fitting.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic knitting techniques and are ready to explore more complex stitch patterns and color work. The double-knitting technique requires solid foundational skills and the ability to manage two colors simultaneously while maintaining consistent tension and stitch quality throughout the project.