Cute Baby Bonnet and Nesting Blanket Set

Materials

• Lightweight, soft yarn (for the bonnet, use a lace-weight yarn such as mohair; for the blanket, use a medium-weight yarn)
• Knitting needles (size US 2.5 - 3.5 mm for bonnet, size US 6 - 8 mm for blanket)
• Crochet hook (size H/8 or 5 mm for blanket)
• Measuring tape
• Safety scissors
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Gauge

Bonnet: 6 stitches = 1 inch in stockinette stitch with lightweight yarn on the smaller needles.
Blanket: 4 stitches = 1 inch in single crochet with medium-weight yarn on the larger hook.

Abbreviations

• k - knit
• p - purl
• st(s) - stitch(es)
• BO - bind off
• ch - chain
• sc - single crochet
• sl st - slip stitch

Instructions

Bonnet

1. Cast on 68 stitches using the lace-weight yarn and size US 2.5 mm needles.
2. Row 1: *k1, p1; repeat from * across the row.
3. Row 2: k all stitches.
4. Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until you have knitted approximately 6 inches or until the piece measures from the bottom of the bonnet to the top of the head.
5. Place a marker at each end of the work, then continue in stockinette stitch (knit every row) for an additional 4 inches.
6. Begin decreasing for the top of the bonnet: Row 1: k2tog across the row (you should have 34 stitches left).
7. Row 2: purl all stitches.
8. Continue to decrease every other row until you are down to about 12 stitches.
9. BO all stitches and pull the yarn through the last stitches to secure. Weave in all ends with a tapestry needle.
10. Optional: Add a delicate ribbon or lace for tie strings around the chin.

Nesting Blanket

1. Using medium-weight yarn and size US 6 mm crochet hook, make a slip knot and ch 70.
2. Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and across the row until the end.
3. Row 2: ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. Repeat this row until the blanket measures approximately 30 inches or desired size.
4. On the last row, switch to a double crochet (dc) stitch across if you desire a patterned edge.
5. Once you have the desired size, finish with a row of slip stitches around the edges for a neat finish.
6. Weave in any ends and your cuddly nesting blanket is complete!

This baby bonnet and nesting blanket set will not only be a lovely handmade gift but also serve as a cherished keepsake for years to come. Happy crafting!