Softly Bonnet

Softly Bonnet by Mel Harrison

What is Being Made

The Softly Bonnet is a unisex textured bonnet designed for infants and toddlers in sizes ranging from newborn through 4 years old. This fitted bonnet features a sweet, simple construction with a textured pattern repeat that works well for both confident beginners and experienced knitters. The design is versatile enough to suit any gender, making it an ideal handmade gift for babies and young children.

Techniques Used

The Softly Bonnet employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginner-level crafters. The pattern includes straightforward shaping and an easy pattern repeat that builds confidence while creating a polished finished garment. Knitters have flexibility in their approach to the back section of the bonnet, with options to use the magic loop method, double-pointed needles (DPNs), or specialized circular needles depending on their preference and skill level. Proper gauge swatching is emphasized as an important step to ensure the bonnet knits to the correct finished size.

Stitches Used

The pattern features a textured stitch design with a repeating pattern panel. The gauge is measured at 12 stitches by 13 rows over 5 centimeters when worked in the pattern and finished according to instructions. While specific stitch names are not detailed in the pattern excerpt, the textured quality comes from the pattern repeat itself, which remains accessible for beginner knitters while adding visual interest to the completed bonnet.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for 8ply/DK weight yarn, with yardage requirements varying by size: approximately 55 meters for newborn, 61 meters for 0-3 months, 69 meters for 3-6 months, 84 meters for 6-12 months, 94 meters for 1-2 years, and 120 meters for 2-4 years. The sample shown uses Drops Merino Extra Fine hand-dyed by Mahogany Turtle, demonstrating the beautiful results possible with quality DK weight merino.

Needles: The pattern requires 4mm circular needles in a 60-centimeter length for working the flat panel and neckline sections. For the back of the bonnet, knitters may choose between the magic loop method using the same circular needles, 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs), or 4mm Addi Crazytrio needles. Needle size may be adjusted as needed to achieve the correct gauge.

Notions: Seven stitch markers are needed, with one marker in a distinctive color or design to help track pattern repeats and shaping. A darning needle is required for weaving in ends and finishing the bonnet.