Baby Shower Invitations: Part 1 - The Essential Information to Include

 A lot of your planning should be finalized by now, so it's time to doublecheck that guest list and order the invitations!  You'll want to send the invitations about 2 months before the date of the shower, so you'll want to order the invitations or start making them about a month to 4 weeks before you want to send them out.

 (photo credit to Diana Polekhina on Unsplash)

When creating a baby shower invitation, it's important to include specific details to ensure that your guests have all the necessary information. Here are the essential items to include:

1. Event Title: Clearly state that it's a "Baby Shower" so guests know the purpose of the gathering.

2. Parent's Name: Include the name of the expectant mother or the parents since it is their special day.

3. Date and Time: Specify the date and start time of the baby shower. If there are specific time details, such as when games or activities will begin, mention those as well.  And, frankly, if there's a time that you want the festivities to wind down, put an end time as well.
   

4. Location: Provide the complete address of the venue, including any helpful landmarks or parking information.

5. RSVP Information: Include an RSVP deadline along with contact details, such as a phone number or email address, where guests can respond to confirm their attendance.  Create a spreadsheet on which to mark accepted or declined invitations from guests since this will help with planning and catering as well as narrow down the follow-ups to those who did not respond timely.
   

6. Theme: Here's where your creativity starts to really blossom.  Let your guests know the theme of the shower explicitly on the invitation to guide guests in getting into the mood.  Let them know any specific items to bring or other information that they would want to know to prepare and be comfortable at the event. For example, if there are any special instructions or requests, such as bringing a book instead of a card, wearing a certain color, or participating in a particular activity, make sure to communicate this clearly.  
7. Gift Registry Information (optional): If a gift registry has been created, consider including a link or store details on a separate insert to avoid appearing gift-focused.
8. Additional Details: Be sure to include any additional information that your guests need to know, such as dress code, whether it's a co-ed shower, or if children are welcome.
   

  Once you've gathered this information, you'll be ready for our next post on the pros and cons of ordering invitations or designing your own.

Budgeting for Baby Bliss: How to Plan a Memorable Baby Shower Without Breaking the Bank

 When you're eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new baby, it's only natural to want to have a blow out celebration with friends and family, especially at the baby shower.  However, with all the excitement, it's easy to get carried away and overspend. That's why setting a budget for the baby shower is a smart move.

In future posts, we'll be exploring some potentially big ticket items, like food and decorations, and we've already thought about our location, guest list, and theme.   So, now, it's money time!

(photo credit to Sincerely Media on Unsplash)

Why Budgeting for a Baby Shower is Essential

Baby showers are about celebrating, not stressing over finances. Establishing a budget from the beginning can help you stay organized and avoid any post-party financial woes. Here are some tips for how to keep it all manageable:

1. Determine Your Total Budget

The first step is to figure out how much you can realistically spend overall on the baby shower. Consider your financial situation and don't be afraid to ask for contributions from family members or friends who want to help out.

2. Prioritize Expenses

Now that you have your total budget, it's time to break it down into categories. Think about what aspects of the baby shower are most important to you. Potential expenses include venue, decorations, invitations, food, drinks, games, and party favors. Allocate a portion of your budget to each category based on your priorities.  Even, as we'll discuss, you want to add DIY elements to the shower, you'll still need to budget for supplies and supplements.

3. Be Creative with Decorations

You don't need to break the bank to create a festive atmosphere. We'll have a future post on decorations for the shower, but adding a DIY element can be both budget-friendly and personal. Now that you have your theme, you can start pricing decorations and get lots of ideas from Pinterest and craft stores.

4. Plan a Potluck or DIY Food

One of the most significant expenses for any party is catering, especially in today's inflationary atmosphere. Consider hosting a potluck-style baby shower and ask family and close friends each to bring a dish to share. Alternatively, you can prepare simple, homemade snacks and refreshments to keep costs down.  We'll go more in depth into this topic in a future post.

5. Digital Invites

Save money on paper invitations and postage by sending digital invites through email or social media. There are plenty of templates available online that allow you to create beautiful, personalized invitations, and we've got a few in the pipeline as well that we'll share in a future post.  Alternatively, creating handmade invitations can be cost effective and really add a personal touch, but factor in the DIY supplies you'll need.

6. Keep Guest List in Check

The more guests you invite, the more you'll spend on food, drinks, and party favors. Keep your guest list manageable by inviting close friends and family members. This not only saves money but also creates a more intimate gathering.

7. Set Realistic Expectations

Remember that the purpose of the baby shower is to celebrate the upcoming arrival of the baby, not to impress anyone with extravagance. Setting realistic expectations for the event can help you stick to your budget without feeling pressured to overspend.

8. Shop Smart for Gifts and Favors

When it comes to party favors and gifts, look for affordable yet thoughtful options. You can find cute and practical baby shower favors and gifts at discount stores or online marketplaces.  We'll explore some of the ways you can create reasonably priced but on theme party favors for your guests that help memorialize this amazing baby shower in a future post.

9. DIY Games and Entertainment

Instead of hiring entertainment, consider organizing your own games and activities. Simple games like "guess the baby food" or "baby bingo" can be a hit and won't cost much to set up.  We've got a future post on this topic coming up too, but right now, just focus on how much money to allocate to these aspects of the shower.

10. Keep Track of Expenses

Throughout the planning process, keep a close eye on your spending. Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to record expenses and ensure you stay within your predetermined budget.

By following these budgeting tips, you can host a memorable baby shower without emptying your wallet. Remember that the most important thing is the love and joy you share with your loved ones as you eagerly await the newest addition to your community.

Choosing Just the Right Theme for the Baby Shower

 Oh, the possibilities are endless!  So, it's important to start narrowing down the choices and options early in the planning stages for the baby shower.  Of course, consulting with the guest(s) of honor is probably the best place to start.  Even if they insist upon leaving it up to you, you can share some of the themes below and get a reaction, you can ask about color preferences and dislikes, and you can start thinking about feasibility and budgeting issues. 

(photo credit to Lydia Winters on Upsplash)

Once you've got a theme, a lot of the other aspects of planning that we're going to explore in future posts will start to fall into place because the theme will help in choosing invitations, decorations, and food options.  And think about the DIY aspects!

Here's a list of themes to get you started:

1. Classic Storybook Theme:

   • Decorate with elements from beloved children's books and ask guests to bring their favorite childhood book as a gift.

2. Vintage Tea Party:

   • Host an elegant tea party with vintage teacups, saucers, and lace tablecloths while serving a variety of teas, finger sandwiches, and pastel-colored desserts.

3. Woodland Creatures:

   • Decorate with adorable forest animals like foxes, owls, and deer and use natural elements like logs, branches, and greenery for décor.

4. Travel Adventures:

   • Celebrate the parents-to-be's love for travel with a globe-trotting baby shower and decorate with maps, suitcases, and globes and serve cuisine from their favorite countries.

5. Garden Party:

   • Host an outdoor garden baby shower with floral arrangements, hanging lanterns, and a natural, botanical feel while serving fresh garden salads, fruit tarts, and herbal tea.

6. Nautical Adventure or Beach Scenes:

   • Set sail with a nautical or beach theme, featuring anchors, sailboats, sand buckets and spades and navy-blue and white décor with seafood appetizers and beachy cocktails/mocktails as part of the menu.

7. Circus Carnival:

   • Create a vibrant carnival atmosphere with circus-themed decorations and games like ring toss and balloon darts with cotton candy, popcorn, and carnival-style food.

8. Star Wars or Marvel Baby Shower:

   • For fans of the Star Wars or Marvel franchises, have a baby shower set in a galaxy far, far away and decorate with superhero props and emblems.

9. Movie Marathon:

   • Choose a favorite movie or film series as your theme, such as a Disney movie or Harry Potter, and screen the movie(s) in the background while having movie-themed snacks and activities related to the film.

10. Jungle Safari:

    • Go on a wild adventure with a jungle safari theme featuring animal prints, tropical foliage, and plush stuffed animals while serving fruit punch and exotic snacks.
      

11. Farmyard Fun:

    • Create a farm-inspired setting with barnyard decorations and farm animal cutouts or stuffies while serving farmers' market favorites like mini pies and farm-to-table veggies.

12. Science and Discovery:

    • Celebrate the little one's future as a scientist or explorer with a science-themed baby shower and decorate with beakers, microscopes, and other science equipment.

Choose a theme that resonates with the parents-to-be's interests and personality, and you'll create a memorable baby shower experience for everyone involved.  We'll pick one in our next post to carry through the planning stages as an illustration.

Planning the Perfect Baby Shower: Selecting the Ideal Venue and Crafting the Ultimate Guest List

When it comes to organizing a memorable baby shower, two critical factors can make or break the celebration: the venue and the guest list. Choosing the right location and carefully curating your guest list can set the tone for a joyous and unforgettable event. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the essential steps to help you make informed decisions and ensure your baby shower is a resounding success.

 (photo credit to Sofiya Levchenko on Unsplash)

Crafting the Ultimate Guest List:

1. Prioritize Close Friends and Family: Start by listing the essential people, such as immediate family and best friends; these are the individuals who should be at the top of your guest list.

2. Consider the Parents' Preferences: Ask the expectant mother or parents for their input on the guest list (we're not going to address surprise parties!).  Let's face it, she may have specific people she wants to invite or exclude whom you don't know about, so best to figure all of that out early in the process.  But leave room for some additional guests later.
   

3. Size Matters: Keep the size of the venue in mind when finalizing your guest list. It's crucial to strike a balance between inviting everyone you'd like and ensuring the space doesn't become overcrowded.  We're going to advocate for establishing the guest list first and working from there but, as we'll discuss in future posts, budget and available venues might require adjustments.
   

4. Theme and Activities: Consider the theme and activities planned for the baby shower (also a future blog post). Some games and activities may be more enjoyable with a smaller, more intimate group, while others can accommodate a larger crowd.  Though, you can always make adjustments, people come first!
   

5. Send Save-the-Date Notifications Early: Once you've finalized the guest list, you'll want to informally alert invitees to the date/time well in advance while you prepare the invitations. This gives guests ample time to RSVP (and allows you to make adjustments to the guest list) and helps you plan for the other elements of the shower. ** We'll address these aspects in upcoming posts too.

    ** For the DIYers, this is a great time also to start gauging whether certain guests want to help with decorations or other handmade gifts and favors for the party.
   

Selecting the Perfect Venue:

1. Consider the Paents-to-Be's Preferences: Start by consulting with the expectant parent(s). Does she or they envision an intimate gathering at home or a more elaborate affair at a rented space? Understanding the guests of honors' preferences is the first step in making the day special.  In fact, this is a good time to address whether the shower will be co-ed or just for female family and friends.  Taking into account the envisioned guest list will help in a lot of the planning going forward, such as the theme of the party, venue, activities, food, etc.  It really is the first step, so go back up to the beginning of this post to concentrate on guest list first, then come back here :-)
   

2. Capacity and Comfort: Evaluate the number of guests you plan to invite. Ensure the chosen venue can comfortably accommodate everyone while maintaining a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

3. Indoor or Outdoor: Decide whether you want an indoor or outdoor baby shower. Outdoor venues like gardens or parks can add a charming natural backdrop, while indoor spaces offer climate control and versatility.

4. Accessibility: Check if the venue is easily accessible to all guests, including those with mobility issues. Consider parking availability and proximity to public transportation.

5. Budget: Set a budget for the venue, keeping in mind that some locations may require rental fees. Be sure to account for any additional costs, such as decorations or catering.  We have an upcoming blog post on setting a budget.
   

By carefully selecting the perfect venue and nailing down a guest list of those special people to the guest(s) of honor, you can create a baby shower that not only celebrates the upcoming arrival but also ensures a wonderful experience for the parents-to-be and everyone in attendance. Remember, it's all about creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Creating the Perfect Baby Gift Registry: Essentials vs. Extras

So, once you've had that initial conversation with the mom-to-be or the parents-to-be about timing the baby shower (discussed in this post), you'll want to encourage or help them create a baby gift registry. 

When creating the registry, it's a good idea to divide items into necessities and extras to help friends and family choose how they want to participate.  It will really help you, as the planner and host of the event, to get insight into the guests they want to invite and the themes and colors that they gravitate towards, which will make the next stages of planning the shower even easier (future blog posts on these elements).

(photo credit to Eli Pluma on Unsplash.)

Necessities:

1. Diapers: You'll need plenty of diapers in various sizes.
2. Baby Clothes: Bodysuits, sleepers, onesies, and weather-appropriate outfits.
3. Baby Gear (great for group gifts):
   • Crib or Bassinet: A safe place for the baby to sleep.
   • Car Seat: A must for safe transportation.
   • Stroller: For on-the-go convenience.
   • Baby Body Carrier or Wrap: Great for bonding and convenience.
4. Feeding Essentials:
   • Bottles and Nipples: If not breastfeeding exclusively.
   • Breast Pump: If planning to breastfeed.
   • Formula: If not breastfeeding.
   • Bottle Warmer: Optional but helpful.
   • High Chair: For later stages.
5. Nursery Furniture:
   • Changing Table or Pad: For diaper changes.
   • Rocking Chair or Glider: Comfortable for late-night feedings.
6. Bedding:
   • Crib Sheets and Blankets: Make sure they fit the crib snugly.
7. Baby Bathing Supplies:
   • Baby Bathtub: Makes bath time safer.
   • Baby Shampoo, Soap, and Towels: Gentle products for baby's skin.
8. Health and Safety:
   • Baby Monitor: To keep an eye on the baby during sleeptime.
   • First Aid Kit: For minor health concerns.
9. Diapering Supplies on the go:
   • Diaper Bag: Look for one that's easy to carry or able to be attached to stroller.
   • Diaper Cream and Wipes: For diaper changes.

Extras:

1. Toys and Books: Rattles, teething toys, and age-appropriate books.
2. Decorative Items: Nursery decor, wall art, and mobiles. (great DIY projects that we'll talk about in later posts).
   
3. Baby Clothes: Cute outfits beyond the essentials (knitters and crocheters, here's where you come in!).
4. Nursery Organization: Shelving, organizers, and baskets.
5. Baby Grooming Kit: Nail clippers, hairbrush, etc.
6. Baby Swing or Bouncer: For soothing and entertainment.
7. Breastfeeding Accessories: Nursing pillow, nursing cover.
8. Baby Proofing: Outlet covers, cabinet locks, etc.
9. Travel Accessories: Travel crib, portable changing pad.

 (photo credit to Elliot Verhaeren on Unsplash)

Remember, every family's needs and preferences will vary widely, so it's another topic of conversation to have with the parents-to-be.  And, it really will provide insights into other aspects of the baby shower planning that we'll address in future posts.  For now, help the parents prioritize the necessities and fill out the registry, and the extras can be added later if friends and family are looking for additional gift options.

Timing The Baby Shower: Before or After Birth?

You've just found out a close friend or relative is having a baby!  Such great news, and you are itching to plan the baby shower.  But, hold on, there's a really preliminary question you need to discuss with the mom- or parents-to-be -- when is the ideal time to have the baby shower, before or after the baby is born? Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately depends on personal preferences and circumstances and sometimes religious traditions.* 

 (photo credit to Heike Mintel on Unsplash.)

In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of both pre-birth and post-birth baby showers to help you make an informed choice.

The Case for a Pre-Birth Baby Shower:

1. Preparation and Support: A pre-birth baby shower will definitely help the parents-to-be to be prepared for baby's arrival with all the essential items and gear. That way, there's time after the shower to take stock and fill in the gaps in advance. 

2. Easier Planning: As the host, you've got more time to organize a baby shower before the birth, and logistics may be simpler since the parents typically will be more available and can actively participate in planning without the demands of a newborn.

3. Celebration of Pregnancy: A pre-birth shower is as much about celebrating the parents-to-be, especially the pregnant lady herself, and provides an opportunity to honor the journey and share in the excitement of welcoming a new life.

The Case for a Post-Birth Baby Shower:

1. Gender Surprise: If parents choose not to reveal the baby's gender before birth, a post-birth shower allows for more customized gifts and a celebratory event that includes the baby.

2. Baby's Debut: A post-birth baby shower offers friends and family who might need to travel the chance to meet the baby in person. 

3. Reduced Stress: New parents who may be anxious about the baby's arrival for religious or medical reasons may appreciate celebrating once the baby has arrived. 

4. Inclusivity: Adoptive parents or those who become parents through surrogacy may prefer a post-birth shower to celebrate the baby's actual arrival.

Ultimately, the decision of when to have a baby shower, before or after the baby is born, hinges on individual circumstances, preferences, and cultural traditions. Both options have their merits, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

Help the parents-to-be consider factors such as timeline, personal comfort, and the desires of other close friends and family. Remember that, no matter when it happens, the meaningfulness of a baby shower remains the same: celebrating the joyous arrival of a new little human into the world!  With love and support of the community, the occasion will truly be special.

 (photo credit to Anne Nygard on Unsplash.)

*For example, many Jewish people avoid baby showers (and even avoid purchasing clothes or furniture for the baby before the baby is born) out of fear that such revelry might cause something bad to happen to the baby or the mother.

 

A Series of Blog Posts on Planning a Baby Shower

 Hello crocheters and knitters, it's been a minute, but I'm back and continuing my pivot into an area that we can't seem to stay away from (and don't want to!) -- preparing for a baby's arrival!  Whether you're about to become a parent or you're a close friend or relative of the pregnant one, making keepsake crocheted or knitted baby outfits and toys is such a joy.  But, sometimes, you want to do even more -- you want to host a baby shower!

(photo credit to aboodi vesakaran on Unsplash)

Well, you've come to the right place!  I'll be writing a series of blog posts that explore all the steps necessary to throw an amazing baby shower in an effort to curate for you the vast amount of information out there.  Plus, of course, I'm adding in tips on how crafters can bring special DIY elements to the celebration, not just the gifts. 

So, please subscribe to my blog and have this series (two blog posts a week) delivered straight to your inbox!

Crafting Serenity: A Crochet Offering for Your Jizo Statue

Gardens are spaces that hold a special place in our hearts, offering a serene sanctuary where nature's beauty can flourish. My friend has created such a wonderful garden oasis in her backyard, and she has an adorable Jizo statue.  She decided to get one for her garden because she was watching "Old Enough!" on Netflix, which is a Japanese reality show that follows young children leaving the house to run errands by themselves.  I know, sounds crazy to us in America, but it's a very natural tradition in Japan.  In one episode, one of the little girls makes an offering to a Jizo statue.  So, we thought that a little crochet hat for the Jizo would be a great offeringl.

But, before diving into the crochet project, it's essential to appreciate the significance of Jizo statues in Japanese culture and Buddhism. Jizo is a beloved bodhisattva known for his compassionate nature, protecting and guiding souls, especially those of children.  He is also called O-Jizo-san or O-Jizo-sama and is the guardian deity of children and travelers, playing the primary role of protector.  Since the color red is believed to ward off evil, the Japanese traditionally put red bibs and hoods on Jizo to protect the statue, but all colors are used these days. You will find Jizo statues in many places: in Buddhist temples, graveyards, at the side of the road in the countryside, and at the corner of some streets in cities.  In gardens, Jizo statues often represent a peaceful, nurturing presence, serving as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the transient nature of life.

So, we had a lovely afternoon sitting next to her garden, crocheting an offering for the Jizo!

 

And I thought I'd share the pattern so you could make one for your Jizo too!  First, we measured his head above the ears, and it was 13 inches.  Following the formula of 3.14x = 13, we figured out that we'd need to crochet a circle that was about 4 inches in diameter.

I used Red Heart Soft yarn (really a beautiful, soft yet durable acrylic yarn available in so many different colors!) and an H hook.

Round 1: ch 2, make 6 scs in second chain from hook, sl st to top of first st (6 sts)

Round 2: ch 1, 2 scs in each st around, sl st to top of first st (12 sts)

Round 3: ch 1, 1 sc in same st, 2 scs in next st, (1 sc in next st, 2 scs in next st) around, sl st to top of first st (18 sts)

Round 4: ch 1, 1 sc in same st and next st, 2 scs in next st, (1 sc in next 2 sts, 2 scs in next st) around, sl st to top of first st (24 sts)

Round 5: ch 1, 1 sc in same st and next 2 sts, 2 scs in next st, (1 sc in next 3 sts, 2 scs in next st) around, sl st to top of first st (30 sts)

Round 6:  ch 1, 1 sc in same st and next 3 st, 2 scs in next st, (1 sc in next 4 sts, 2 scs in next st) around, sl st to top of first st (36 sts)

Round 7:  ch 1, 1 sc in same st and next 4 st, 2 scs in next st, (1 sc in next 5 sts, 2 scs in next st) around, sl st to top of first st (42 sts)

Round 8: ch 1, 1 sc in same and each st around, sl st to top of first st (42 sts)

Rounds 9-11: repeat Round 8

Round 12: ch 2, 1 dc in same and each st around, sl st to top of first st and fasten off.  

Weave in ends and get ready to have one serene and well-protected Jizo statue!

Designing a Baby Hat, Part 2 (The Knit Version, continued)

 We’re finally ready to cast on!  So far, we’ve decided to make a knit beanie hat for a newborn, estimating that the circumference will be around 14 inches.  We’re going to make about a 3/4 to 1 inches 2x2 ribbed brim for the hat, so we need a stretchy cast-on method.  There are so many different ways to cast on before knitting (a plug for crochet — the chain stitch is the only way you need to get started with crochet!), but the stretchiest cast-on method I’ve come across is Jeny’s Surprisingly Stretchy Slip Knot Cast On.  It’s worth practicing and using for ribbed knitting, it makes for a stretchy and pretty edging (and, though we won’t need it for this project, she’s also got a great stretchy bind off too, available at this link).

If you want a tighter rib, experiment with using a smaller needle size (or switching to a larger size for the body of the hat).

After casting on and knitting the knit 2x2 rib brim (a design element is deciding the length of the ribbing), then it’s time to think about what stitch(es) you want to use to create the “body” of the hat.  Or maybe you just want to use the knit stitch and play with colors and striping (using the Fibonacci sequence for figuring out how many rows per stripe can make for interesting patterns).  I leave the creativity up to you, but you still need to figure out about how high to make the sides of the hat.  The formula is to divide the circumference (in our case here, 14 inches) by pi (3.14), which equals 4.46 inches.  Again, just an estimate  to get you started, the exact measurement will depend on your gauge, the stretchiness of the fabric, and the fit of the hat you want to create.

You’ll also need to experiment with when to start decreasing stitches and at what rate.  You might want the beanie to have a little extra slouch rather than fit snuggly, or you might want a close-to-the-head fit.  Consider how you’re going to finish off the top of the hat (A pompom? A knot?).  Be creative and experiment!

In my next post, we’ll start planning a crochet hat.

Designing a Baby Hat, Part 2 (the Knit Version)

By now, I’m sure you’re wondering, when are we actually going to start making a hat?!  But, trust me, a little preplanning during the design phase will really help when it comes to the making stage.  And, crocheters, forgive me, but when it comes to hats, the knit version is usually an easier project for a newborn because the extra give and stretchiness will help if sizing is off.  In my next post, we’ll talk about designing a crochet baby hat for a six-month old.

Our first design project is going to be a knit beanie hat for a newborn-to-three month old.  

We’ve gotten a lot accomplished so far:  we’ve picked out just the right yarn for this project (a DK weight super wash wool yarn); we’ve decided what type of baby hat to make (a beanie), and, now, we’re going to figure out what size to make it.  The decision about needle size has kind of been made for us since we decided to use DK yarn, but feel free to experiment with needle sizes during the next step (yarn swatch) to see and feel the different fabrics that result from the changes in needle size.  I suggest that, since we’re making a hat that doesn’t require a “drape” and that we want to be a little denser for warmth, you start with the needle size suggested on the yarn’s wrapper or a size smaller.  I usually use a size 5 (3.75 mm) or size 6 (4.00 mm) needle with DK yarn.

So, as I remarked above, the first step in this process is going to be knitting a little swatch to get familiar with our yarn (I know, I know, no one wants to hear about, much less make, a “gauge swatch” as it is called, but, since we are starting from scratch in designing this baby hat, we’ve got to get a feel for how this yarn is going to operate, especially if we are experimenting with needle sizes).  We’ll want to knit a 4 inch by 4 inch square to see how many stitches in a 4 inch row we get as well as how many rows we get in a 4 inch length.  Once we get a swatch whose fabric we like, we’ll want to wash it to see what that does to our swatch.  Once you wash and block the swatch, you’ll then measure again to see if there’s been any shrinkage or stretch.  

Now that we know what to expect of our yarn, we can start calculating how many stitches we need to cast on for the hat.  An average head circumference for a newborn is around 13.5 inches/34 cm, and baby’s head will grow to about 14.5 inches/37 cm in the first three months.  So, we’re going to average that out to about 14 inches since our knit hat should have enough give in it to stretch as baby grows (and it might be a bit big at first, but not for long!).  

Here’s where some basic math is going to come in handy — we are going to multiply the number of stitches we counted in our 4 inch row by 3.5.  For example, if we had 18 stitches in our gauge swatch, we’ll want to cast on 64 stitches (I know, the math actually came out to 63 stitches, but I like using even numbers).

Oh, I should have mentioned that, with a knit hat, it is easier to start at the brim and knit, then decrease to create the crown.  When we discuss making a crocheted hat, I will suggest starting at the crown and increasing stitches to work our way down to the brim.

Now, here is where the fun and aggravation starts!  Cast on 64 stitches, knit them up and see if you’re getting about 14 inches of outcome.  It’s hard to tell when the stitches are on the needles, but you’ll need to be prepared to experiment with the needle sizes and yarn to see if you’re getting the results you want.  

Decision point:  do you want a ribbed brim or a rolled brim for the beanie?  This is an aesthetic decision, though it too could affect the stitch count and sizing of the hat.  Ribbing makes the hat stretchier, which helps us with the sizing; a rolled brim is just easier in terms of getting started.  I prefer the ribbed brim because I really like the look of using a 2x2 ribbing.  

In the next post, we will talk about stretchy cast-on options and how to plan out the height of the hat to crown to ensure a proportionate hat in terms of width and height and its design elements.

Designing a Baby Hat, Part 1 (General Considerations)

As I’ve discussed in previous posts, one of the first choices I make in designing baby clothes is the yarn choice, both in terms of thickness and fiber (as well as color and price).  But, hand in hand with these choices is a consideration of what it is you want to design and make.  Oh, and of course, whether you want to crochet or knit (or maybe even both!).

Over the years, I’ve usually made a hat and booties as a baby shower gift because they’re the first items that baby is going to need in those first few months and estimating the right sizing is not as difficult.  A blanket is a good choice too, if you have the time to make it (and we’ll talk about blankets and timing of projects in a future post).  As baby grows and develops a personality, then it becomes easier to plan out more elaborate projects, like sweaters, other garments, and toys as well.

 Hats are easier than booties, so let’s start there.  First, what kind of hat do you want to make?  There are a lot of different styles, but here are a few that are perfect for baby:

    1. The beanie - a great choice for baby because it’s easy to get on and off, and it can be adjusted to fit snugly around baby’s head while leaving some room for growth.  Beanies are also great during the creative process because you can use a wide range of rib and stitch patterns, from basic to complex.  Beanies are usually knitted, but there are crochet versions that can work out nicely too.

    2. The ear flap hat - this hat type is similar to the beanie but has flaps that come down over the ears to provide extra warmth and protection from the cold.  Shaping can be a bit of a design challenge, but the ear flap hat is a great choice for crocheters because it’s a more structured hat that’s easier to shape using crochet techniques.  Plus, it’s fun to embellish the hat with braids, tassels, or Pom Poms!

    3. The baby bonnet - if you're looking for a traditional style of baby hat, the bonnet is perfect for both crocheters and knitters.  This type of hat covers the head and ties under the chin, often made with a delicate lace or cable pattern, though simple, sturdy versions are available as well.

    4.  The beret or tam - for a bit of baby flare, the beret or tam is a statement piece that's worn slouchy or slanted on the head.  For this hat, you'll want to use a lighter weight yarn to create a relaxed fabric with drape, and you might want to use some novelty yarns for extra fluff.  This hat works up well in either crochet or knit.

    5. The newsboy cap - another great hat type for baby is the newsboy cap, which has a rounded crown and a visor.  It's more structured and gives the opportunity to use a textured pattern, like basketweave or herringbone, to create a warm and protective hat.  It’s a great project for a crocheter, but there are knit versions as well.

 If you're a beginner to intermediate crocheter, I'd suggest going with the baby bonnet or beret; for knitters, the beanie or bonnet are good choices.  In my next post, we'll talk about making some final decisions on yarn and type of hat; then, we’ll start facing some new decisions to make.  We'll also start talking about sizing and how to take or estimate measurements.

Choosing the Right Yarn for Baby, Part 2

Another important consideration for choosing the right yarn for a baby project is the weight of the yarn.  Again, a lot of initial considerations go into making a good choice: for example, climate where baby lives, ease of care, and the look of the finished piece.

Yarn weight is the measure of thickness of the yarn, which affects the drape, gauge, and finish of your baby project.  Generally, “baby” or “DK” (double knitting) is recommended for use when making baby clothes.  These yarn weights are lighter and more delicate, creating a soft and comfortable fabric for baby’s sensitive skin (especially when combined with the right fibers).  It’s this combination of fiber and thickness that directly affects the care instructions and overall durability of yarn (as well as the size of the crochet hook and/or knitting needles you’ll use for the project).

Worsted weight yarn is a medium weight yarn that is slightly thicker than baby or DK weight yarn.  It’s a popular choice for a lot of different types of crochet and knit projects, but sometimes can be too thick or not drape-y enough for a baby item.  But, if baby does live in a colder climate, worsted weight yarn can create a warm outer garment or blanket that’ll get a lot of use.  Be sure to follow the care instructions to ensure that the item is safe and comfortable for baby.

In my next post, we’ll explore some good combinations of yarn weight and fibers to make a baby hat, which might be the first project in creating baby’s first year wardrobe that you want to undertake because it’s a great newborn gift and shouldn’t take too long to make.  

Choosing the Right Yarn for Baby, Part 1

There are a lot of decisions to make when starting a new crochet or knit project, but I tend to start with my yarn choice and let it drive my decisions from there (we'll be talking over the next few weeks about other options for the starting point).

The yarn choice for a baby project is especially important because there are some additional considerations to keep in mind than just softness against baby's skin: How easy is it to care for? How much will it cost to complete the project? How will it stand up to the test of time?

There are basically two choices, a natural fiber or a synthetic one.  Each has its benefits and downsides, which you'll need to weigh in making a final decision.  As we start exploring the different items that we will include in baby's first wardrobe, I'll make specific recommendations geared towards each project.  But, for now, here's some general considerations to keep in mind:

    1. Wool - wool is a natural fiber that produces a high quality, soft, and durable yarn for baby items; however, it can be more pricey than some of the other types of yarn and may shrink or felt when washed.  Look for a superwash wool that can be machine washed and dried to add life to the baby item and to make mama's life easier.

    2. Cotton - also a natural fiber that's soft, lightweight, and hypoallergenic, making it a comfortable and airy choice for baby in warmer climates; however, it's not going to provide the warmth that other types of yarn will, and it can stretch and lose its shape over time. 

    3. Bamboo - a sustainable and eco-friendly natural fiber that is soft and hypoallergenic; however, it stretches and loses shape even more than cotton and is not durable over the long term.  It can be expensive as well, but blended yarns with a little bamboo in them can be a good choice.

    4. Acrylic - a synthetic fiber whose quality has improved immensely in recent years.  It is cost effective and easier to care for than natural fibers; however, it may not be as soft and breathable and may not hold its shape over time.

Of course, there are a number of blended fiber yarns these days, which try to combine strengths of various fibers while minimizing the downsides.  In a future post, I’ll dig deeper into good combinations of fibers for baby, but, in my next post, we’ll explore yarn weights and which ones are well-suited for baby projects.

Happy New Year 2023!!

Another year, another chance to start fresh!  This is the year that I'm finally going to make some dreams come true, and I hope you'll join me for the ride.  

I've dreamed of helping crocheters and knitters create beautiful keepsakes for the new babies in their lives (and hopefully for some babies in need as well).  To me, that means providing access to the physical and skill-based tools needed to actually make the items as well as the inspiration to create something meaningful and from the heart.

 

So, this year, we are going to go, step by step together, through all of the decision points on the road to creating an amazing first-year wardrobe for baby.  I'll cover yarn choices, sizing options, pattern decisions, and head-to-toe practicalities to keep baby well-outfitted and the mama happy about the ease of caring for the items.

Please join me Tuesdays and Fridays for this series of blog posts, and, if you sign up in the box to the left, the posts will be delivered right to your inbox.

Thank you for your support through the years and for joining me on our journey through 2023!  Happy New Year!