7 Cable Free Knit Bonnet Patterns You’ll Want To Make Today
Discover cable free knit bonnet patterns that mix texture and style—find them all on my free bonnet knitting pattern page.

If you’ve hung around my blog for a while, you already know how much I adore bonnets. They’re timeless, they knit up quickly, and they bring just the right touch of charm to any little wardrobe. But when you add cables into the mix? Oh, my knitting heart skips a beat. Today, I’m diving into some of my favorite cable free knit bonnet patterns. These patterns are ones I’ve designed, knit, and loved, each with its own personality and yarn pairing.
So grab your favorite needles, scroll down to the bottom to find THIS pattern, and let’s explore together.
Why I Love Cable Free Knit Bonnet Patterns
There’s something about cables that transforms simple stitches into little works of art. Cable free knit bonnet patterns take that artistry and make it wearable for babies, toddlers, and photo props alike. Whether the cables are bold, delicate, or tucked into the fabric, each bonnet has its own story. And I love that I can make a stack of them for gifts, newborn photoshoots, or just because.
Plus, the yarns make such a difference. Sometimes you want the sheen of a merino blend, sometimes the soft halo of mohair, and other times you just want a dependable cotton or acrylic mix. Pairing yarn and cables is part of the joy.
The Selah Bonnet
Let’s start with the Selah Bonnet, one of my most-loved designs. This one features an i-cord front and a purposely decreased back, which gives it a gorgeous fitted shape. The standout feature? Beautiful cables that run with just enough texture to catch the light without overpowering.
I knit the Selah Bonnet using KnitPicks Capra (affiliate link), a luxurious merino and cashmere blend. The softness makes it baby-friendly, and the stitch definition makes those cables pop.
The Samson Bonnet
Next up is the Samson Bonnet. If you look closely, the cables almost resemble horseshoes marching down the bonnet. It’s a design that feels sturdy and strong, yet still incredibly sweet for little heads.
For this design, I went with KnitPicks Woolen Cotton (affiliate link). The blend of wool and cotton gives the bonnet warmth without being heavy, and it makes those horseshoe cables stand out perfectly. It’s a great year-round yarn for bonnets.
The Nicolas Bonnet
The Nicolas Bonnet is one of those patterns that feels almost architectural. It begins with a tidy 1×1 rib, flows into cables, and then returns back to 1×1 rib. It creates this structured yet soft look that I can’t get enough of.
I knit this bonnet in KnitPicks Capra (affiliate link), again because the merino and cashmere blend gives such beautiful stitch clarity. It’s a pattern that’s simple enough to knit but looks far more complex when finished.
The Lewis Bonnet
For knitters who want bold cables, the Lewis Bonnet is a showstopper. It’s knit with elongated double cables all over, giving it a striking texture. Add the i-cord front, and you’ve got a polished and professional-looking bonnet.
The yarn I chose here is KnitPicks Comfy Worsted (affiliate link). This cotton and acrylic blend makes it lightweight, washable, and practical while still highlighting the cable texture beautifully.
The Cable Hood
Sometimes you want a bonnet with a twist, and the Cable Hood brings that extra flair. It’s a pixie-style bonnet, complete with mirrored double cable panels that run from front to back. It’s whimsical, modern, and perfect for photo props.
I’ve knit this in both KnitPicks Reverie (affiliate link) and Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link). Both yarns add a light halo that softens the cables without hiding them, making the bonnet both textured and dreamy.
The Shiloh Bonnet
The Shiloh Bonnet is one of my favorites for subtlety. Instead of bold, high-contrast cables, the design blends cables into the fabric itself, leaving you with texture that feels soft and understated. There are no purl backgrounds here—just cables that rise gently from the smooth surface.
This bonnet is knit in KnitPicks Aloft (affiliate link), a laceweight mohair and silk blend. The halo of this yarn takes those cables and makes them feel like a whisper, adding depth without drama.
The Abigail Bonnet
Finally, let’s talk about the Abigail Bonnet. This design combines cables and lace in a way that feels both delicate and bold. The thicker knitted ties finish it off with a practical and beautiful detail.
For this one, I used Madelinetosh Pashmina (affiliate link). It’s a luxurious blend of merino, silk, and cashmere. The yarn elevates the cables and lace, making it an heirloom-worthy bonnet you’ll want to knit again and again.
Why Cable Free Knit Bonnet Patterns Work for Every Knitter
Whether you’re a beginner looking to stretch your skills or an advanced knitter who loves to play with texture, cable free knit bonnet patterns are perfect. They’re small enough to finish in a weekend but packed with just enough challenge to keep things interesting.
Each bonnet can be personalized with different yarn choices, colors, or even tie styles. And since they don’t require a ton of yardage, they’re budget-friendly projects that make incredible gifts.
Tips for Knitting Cable Free Knit Bonnet Patterns
- Use a cable needle you love. If you’re new to cables, a well-shaped cable needle makes all the difference.
- Choose yarns with good stitch definition. While fluffy yarns like Aloft or Fluffy Day soften the look, smoother yarns like Capra or Comfy Worsted will make cables crisp.
- Block your bonnets. Blocking helps cables open up and lay beautifully. Don’t skip this step!
- Experiment with ties. I-cord, garter stitch, or even ribbon can completely change the vibe of your finished bonnet.
- Practice your decreases. Many of these designs (like the Selah Bonnet and Lewis Bonnet) use purposeful decreases that shape the back of the bonnet in unique ways so they look just as good from the back as they do the front.
I hope walking through these cable free knit bonnet patterns has inspired you to pick up your needles and cast one on. From the subtle Shiloh to the bold Lewis, each of these bonnets showcases cables in its own way.
Don’t forget to scroll down to the bottom of this post to find THIS pattern, and be sure to check out my free bonnet knitting pattern page for even more designs.
I’d love to hear from you! Which of these cable free knit bonnet patterns is your favorite? Have you tried any of them yet, or do you have a go-to bonnet design? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about it.
This post contains affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work and helping me keep offering free patterns!
The post 7 Cable Free Knit Bonnet Patterns You’ll Want To Make Today appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.

Selah Bonnet Free Pattern





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