Natural Bonnet

Natural Bonnet by Mary Gonzales

What is Being Made

The Natural Bonnet is a newborn-sized knitted hat designed by independent designer Mary Gonzales. This cozy bonnet features a classic construction that combines ribbed and stockinette stitch sections, creating a structured yet soft accessory perfect for infants. The bonnet is worked in the round after an initial flat ribbed section, resulting in a seamless finish that is gentle against delicate newborn skin.

Techniques Used

This knitting project employs several fundamental techniques suitable for knitters with basic to intermediate skills. The pattern begins with a flat knit-and-purl ribbed section worked in rows, which creates a textured cuff area. After the initial ribbed section measures approximately 4 inches, stitches are connected to work in the round, transitioning from flat knitting to circular knitting. The pattern then incorporates a series of strategic decreases to shape the crown of the bonnet, gradually reducing the stitch count until the opening is closed. The final step involves weaving in ends for a polished, finished appearance.

Stitches Used

• Knit Stitch – The fundamental stitch used throughout the stockinette sections and decrease rounds
• Purl Stitch – Used in combination with knit stitches to create the ribbed texture in the opening rows
• Knit 2 Together (K2tog) – A right-leaning decrease stitch used in multiple rounds to shape the bonnet crown and reduce stitches progressively
• Ribbing (K1, P1) – An alternating knit and purl pattern that creates elasticity and structure in the bonnet's lower section
• Stockinette Stitch – Created by alternating knit rows and purl rows in flat sections, and knit rounds when working in the round

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The Natural Bonnet requires 1 skein of Berroco Kodiak in the Weasel colorway, or any comparable bulky weight yarn on the lighter side of that weight category. Super chunky yarn weight is used throughout this project, allowing for quick completion and a soft, lofty fabric.

Needles and Supplies: Knitters will need a Size 13 circular needle measuring 16 inches in length for the initial flat and early circular sections, along with a set of Size 13 double-pointed needles for the final decrease rounds when the stitch count becomes too small for the circular needle. Additional supplies include a yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors for cutting yarn, and a tape measure to ensure the ribbed section reaches the required 4-inch measurement. An optional stitch marker can help track the beginning of each round during the circular knitting sections.

Pattern Overview

The Natural Bonnet begins with casting on 30 stitches and working a flat ribbed cuff using alternating knit and purl stitches. After the ribbed section is complete, the pattern transitions to stockinette stitch, alternating knit and purl rows until the piece reaches 4 inches in length. Once the proper length is achieved, stitches are joined to work in the round. A series of six decrease rounds systematically reduces the stitch count, shaping the bonnet crown. The knitter switches to double-pointed needles when the circular needle becomes uncomfortable due to the decreasing number of stitches. The pattern concludes by cutting the yarn, pulling it through the remaining stitches to close the opening, and weaving in all ends for a finished bonnet.