6 Free Cotton Bonnet Patterns for Summer
Looking for free summer bonnet patterns? These lightweight cotton designs are perfect for warmer weather. Browse all my free bonnet patterns here.
When summer rolls in, I start reaching for cotton yarn and lightweight accessories—especially when it comes to knitting bonnets. I know I’m not alone in wanting to keep babies cool and cute without adding heat-trapping fibers to their heads. That’s why I put together this list of free summer bonnet patterns that are all knit in breathable cotton or bamboo blends. Each one is soft, sweet, and easy to care for—everything you want in a summer knit for babies.
These free summer bonnet patterns are some of my favorites to knit when the weather warms up. They’re great for photo shoots, baby gifts, or just everyday use for littles who don’t mind a good bonnet moment. So if you’re hunting for your next cotton knit project, scroll on—I’ve got six free summer bonnet patterns you’ll want to bookmark!
1. Asher Bonnet – Free Summer Bonnet Pattern in Fingering Weight
The Asher Bonnet is an airy, sweet piece that pairs beautifully with warm weather. It’s knit in KnitPicks Comfy Fingering yarn (affiliate link), a lightweight cotton-acrylic blend that’s soft to the touch and perfect for delicate summer knits. I designed this one with a simple faux cable detail that adds a bit of texture without weighing things down.
Because it’s knit in fingering weight yarn, it’s one of the coolest and most breathable options on this list of free summer bonnet patterns. I love gifting this one at spring baby showers or using it as a coordinating set with the matching Asher Baby Blanket.
If you like sweet, soft, and textured, this one is calling your name. And it’s all written out for you step-by-step—no charts or guesswork.
2. Bethany Pixie Bonnet – Lightweight and Lacy
Pixie bonnets are always in style, and the Bethany Pixie Bonnet is one of my go-tos when I want something quick, summery, and special. It’s knit in Hobbii Rainbow Bamboo yarn (affiliate link), which is silky smooth and light on baby’s head—exactly what you want for summer.
The pointed back gives this bonnet a whimsical, vintage look that somehow works just as well for a modern photo session or a sunny afternoon walk. I especially love the way this one frames a baby’s face—it’s just too cute.
This pattern is an easy lace knit with a no shaping making it a great project for an adventurous beginner. The final effect is a beautifully clean, breathable bonnet you’ll be proud to show off. Definitely one of the standout free summer bonnet patterns in my collection.
Bethany Pixie Bonnet Free Pattern
3. Cailloux Bonnet – Texture Lovers, Rejoice!
The Cailloux Bonnet is knit in KnitPicks Comfy Worsted yarn (affiliate link), which makes it a little quicker to knit but still totally appropriate for summer. The cotton-acrylic blend has a light feel, and the simple textured stitch reminds me of little pebbles—hence the name!
Out of all the free summer bonnet patterns, this one is my favorite when I want something that looks complex but is surprisingly beginner-friendly. It’s also stretchy and forgiving, which makes it perfect for gifting—you don’t have to hit exact measurements to end up with a great fit.
This one flies off my needles every time I cast on. And I love that it can be a unisex option depending on your yarn color choice.
4. Lewis Bonnet – Simple Lines, Classic Fit
The Lewis Bonnet is what I think of as the essential summer bonnet. Knit in KnitPicks Comfy Worsted yarn (affiliate link), it’s structured enough to keep its shape but soft and breathable enough to wear comfortably on warm days.
What makes this one special is the clean line the cables create that run from front to back and the detailed decreases on the crown. It’s subtle but striking. And sometimes, especially in summer, attention to detail is best.
This bonnet is worked flat to the crown and then joined in the round for the decreases, so it’s a great intro to bonnet construction if you’re still new to shaping. It also makes a great backdrop for a handmade tie—i-cord, ribbon, or even a crocheted chain. When you’re working with free summer bonnet patterns, it’s always fun to personalize.
5. MiniBobble Bonnet – A Summer Texture Favorite
Tiny bobbles. That’s what makes the MiniBobble Bonnet so fun and unique. It’s knit in Hobbii Baby Cotton yarn (affiliate link), which is buttery soft and perfect for even the most sensitive baby skin.
This pattern uses small bobbles spaced evenly across the body of the bonnet, giving it a playful texture that looks darling in photos. And while it looks fancy, it’s all done with beginner-friendly bobble techniques. If you’ve never knit a bobble before, this is a great first project!
Out of all the free summer bonnet patterns, this one always gets a ton of compliments. It’s an unexpected twist on a baby classic—and it’s really fun to knit!
Mini Bobble Bonnet Free Pattern
6. Naomi Bonnet – Soft and Breezy in Bulky Cotton
Yes, you read that right—a summer bonnet in bulky yarn! The Naomi Bonnet is knit in KnitPicks Billow (affiliate link), a bulky cotton yarn that’s loosely spun and super breathable. It gives this bonnet a soft, cozy feel without adding weight or warmth.
This one has a lovely texture caused by the thick and thin single ply yarn. It’s probably the fastest knit out of all these free summer bonnet patterns, and I love how plush it feels once it’s blocked.
If you’re short on time but still want to knit something special and seasonal, the Naomi Bonnet is a great choice.
Why I Love Knitting Free Summer Bonnet Patterns
There’s something so satisfying about summer knitting. You don’t have to worry about thick wool weighing down your lap, and you get to work with breathable cottons and breezy patterns. Bonnet projects, especially, feel manageable and quick—perfect for squeezing into those little windows of time during busy summer days.
Plus, bonnets make perfect gifts. Whether you’re visiting a new baby, setting up a market booth, or just want to keep your own little ones stylish and sun-ready, these free summer bonnet patterns are always a hit.
They’re also great stash busters. Got half a skein of Comfy Worsted lying around? Boom, Lewis Bonnet. Leftover fingering weight from socks? Asher Bonnet to the rescue.
Tips for Working with Cotton Yarn in Summer Projects
Before you head off to cast on, I’ve got a few quick tips to make your summer bonnet knitting experience even better:
- Swatch, swatch, swatch – Cotton doesn’t stretch or bounce back like wool. Make sure you like the feel and drape before committing.
- Stay hydrated and stretch your hands – Cotton can be a little rough on the joints during long knitting sessions.
- Wash before gifting – Some cottons bloom or soften after a wash, and it’s always nice to gift something that’s ready to use.
I hope these free summer bonnet patterns inspire you to pull out your needles and try something new. Whether you go for the airy texture of the Asher Bonnet, the playful pixie shape of the Bethany, or the bobble-filled fun of the MiniBobble Bonnet, there’s something here for every knitter and every baby.
Let’s Chat!
Do you have a favorite among these free summer bonnet patterns? Have you knit one already? I’d love to hear what you’re working on—or which one you’re planning to try next. Drop a comment below and tell me all about it!
Happy summer knitting!
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The post 6 Free Cotton Bonnet Patterns for Summer appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.
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