With the weather getting cooler, we're not the only ones who want to wrap up warm or add an extra layer to our beds. We need to think about the little dolls and teddy bears who are being pushed around in their prams or gently rocked to sleep in their cribs. We don't want those tiny toes or poor paws getting cold, do we?
Whether you're a seasoned stitcher or a keen beginner, I, Rachel, have a really lovely and incredibly simple tutorial for you to follow to knit a snuggly blanket for your child's doll's pram ... or for you child to attempt if they'd like to.
To get started, you will need:
- 2 x balls of wool. I love Sirdar Snuggly wool. It's soft, chunky, easy for children to handle if they're learning to knit, and you get a tactile, almost popcorn-like, finish without having to tackle any complicated stitches.
- Size 5 knitting needles
- Pair of scissors
- Sewing needle
Then it's as simple as casting on 50 stitches, knitting 80 rows, and then casting off.
If you're an absolute beginner, the best way to get started is by following these handy video tutorials. Watch them once or twice and then try to follow along in real time.
To finish your blanket, you need to weave in your ends. This is to make your blanket look neat and tidy and also to stop the wool from unravelling. I find that simply weaving the wool in and out of the stitches just above or below where you've cast on or off is enough to keep everything in place.
If your child would like to learn or help but you don't think they'd be able to tackle a full blanket, how about a little cushion for the pram or crib? Smaller and simpler, it's the perfect mini project for a novice knitter. I recommend using size 4 children's knitting needles.
This time, cast on 16 stitches. You may have to do the casting on and off for them ... I do for my six and eight year old. Then, knit 22 rows before casting off. This should give you a small rectangle. And then you need to knit a second, exactly the same.
Next, lay one rectangle on top of the other and sew three of the sides together. Pop in small amount of stuffing and sew up the fourth sides. You should be left with a beautifully plump pillow perfect for a pretty pram or crib.
Learning to knit does take time and practice but it's such a rewarding hobby. Not only does is improve children's fine motor skills, the repetitive nature helps them to unwind and relax (same for adults, too). Plus, they end up with something amazing that they've made themselves.
Pictured are the Emily Doll's Pram and Emily Doll's Crib. Both are beautiful, timeless toys made from sturdy painted wood; designed and built to be passed down from generation to generation.