If you would like to knit items for new-born babies in Hamlin hospitals, we have some guidance for most useful items below.

Materials

  • Yarn: 8 ply wool
  • Knitting needles: 3.0 mm–3.5 mm

Abbreviations

  • K = Knit
  • P = Purl
  • K2tog = Knit 2 stitches together (decrease)
  • Stocking stitch = Knit 1 row, purl 1 row

Pattern

Cast on: 64 stitches.

Brim: Work 16 rows in K2, P2 rib.

Body: Work 26 rows in stocking stitch.

Shape the Crown

  • Row 1: K6, K2tog; repeat to end.
  • Row 2: Purl.
  • Row 3: K5, K2tog; repeat to end.
  • Row 4: Purl.
  • Row 5: K4, K2tog; repeat to end.
  • Row 6: Purl.

Continue in this pattern, knitting one fewer stitch before each K2tog on every knit row, with a purl row between each decrease row, until you work K1, K2tog across the row. 16 stitches should remain.

Finishing

Knit 1 row. Cut the yarn, thread it through the remaining stitches and pull tight. Sew the back seam, keeping the folded ribbed brim neat.

You will need:

  • Double knitting yarn in one solid colour 
  • 4 mm (UK No. 8) needles 
  • Small buttons, if required by your chosen pattern 
  • Darning needle for sewing up 

Please use double knitting yarn. We recommend knitting the cardigan in one solid colour. 

Pattern Guidance for Hamlin Baby Cardigans 

  1. Knit using a standard newborn cardigan pattern. 
  2. The finished cardigan should fit a newborn baby, approximately 35 cm chest ( 14 inches.) 
  3. Ensure all seams are securely sewn and all loose ends are woven in. 
  4. If using buttons, please ensure they are sewn on firmly. 
  5. Please do not add decorative items such as beads, ribbons or pom-poms, as these may present a safety risk. 

Please use yarn that is durable, practical and suitable for hand washing.

You will need:

  • Double knitting yarn in bright colours 
  • 4 mm (UK No. 8) needles 

Please do not use a thicker ply, as the blankets become too heavy. We prefer knitted blankets to crocheted blankets because they tend to be warmer.

Pattern Guidance for Hamlin Baby Blankets 

  1. You can chose to knit squares to form the blanket or use your favourite baby blanket pattern.
  2. If you chose squares please knit them in garter stitch. Depending on the size of the squares and the finished blanket size you are aiming for, you will need around 20–30 squares.
  3. When you have enough squares, stitch them together to form a complete blanket. 

Finished blanket measurements: approximately 90 × 90 cm (36 × 36 inches). 

  1. Finish with a simple blanket stitch border to strengthen the edges. 
  2. Please ensure all loose ends are securely woven in before donating.