Happy Coincidence

Photo © Mel Clark

One day, as I was clicking away at my computer, a copy of Mel Clark’s newest book, Knitting Gifts for Baby, landed on my desk. As with all of Mel’s books, this collection of baby knits is beautiful and classic. I am always on the lookout for resources for future baby gifts. This collection features so many small and fast-to-knit unisex gifts that I am sure to want to make nearly every item in it!

Photo © Mel Clark

The Ice Cream Rattle would be such a sweet treat. Mel includes in her pattern the possibility of knitting alternate “flavors” or adding “chocolate chips” or “sprinkles”! I think these would be the hit of any shower.

Photo © Mel Clark

Another safe bet when it comes to gift giving… the beanie! This pattern, Two Striped Beanies, comes with many options: ribbed or rolled hem, a plain crown or a top knot, and of course inventive stripes. As Mel says, “I’ve never met a baby who didn’t look cute in one.” A fun and cute-to-wear gift, but still practical. Parents will like this topper to keep their little one warm. With the Ice Cream Rattle and Two Striped Beanies both knit in Skinny Cotton, a few hanks of yarn in different colors will go a long way for gift-giving, too.

• Knit with Blue Sky Alpacas Skinny Cotton.

Now, I was already excited about Knitting Gifts for Baby as a fabulous resource. But, then, there was a very happy coincidence indeed! This book couldn’t have arrived at Blue Sky Alpacas World Headquarters at a more opportune time because I just found out my brother is going to have his first child, which means… I am going to be an aunt! Time to get started on lots of handknits for my new niece or nephew! Auntie Katie better start knitting!!! Perhaps, I should make a list…

Photo © Mel Clark

Because my new niece or nephew is going to need the Seaside Bib. In fact, they will be needed at his or her house, Grandma and Grandpa’s house, my house, Great Grandma’s house…

1. MUST start knitting Seaside Bibs, with Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Cotton.

Photo © Mel Clark

And, I love making baby blankets. So most certainly I’ll have to make a super special one like the Spring Blanket!

2. MUST start knitting the Spring Blanket, with Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Cotton.

Photo © Mel Clark

And, while we’re thinking big and blanket, let’s tackle an Organic Towel, too. Most kids remember wearing hooded towels when they were super little and nothing is better. A great stitch pattern on an item with lots of childhood charm!

3. MUST start knitting the Organic Towel, with Blue Sky Alpacas Skinny Cotton.

Photo © Mel Clark

We haven’t even touched on handknit toys! There are so many great toy patterns and any baby is sure to like special stuffies like Ted with his adorable jacket!

4. MUST start knitting Ted and Jacket, with Spud & Chloë Sweater, (Ted) and Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Cotton.

Photo © Mel Clark

Oh my goodness… look.at.these! Wouldn’t Striped Pants just go with everything? They would be especially cute over a onesie!

5. MUST start knitting Striped Pants, with Blue Sky Alpacas Skinny Cotton.

Photo © Mel Clark

I cannot believe how adorbs and precious the Butterfly Cardi is! All baby girls need one of these!

6. WAIT… just a little bit to start knitting the Butterfly Cardi, with Blue Sky Alpacas Alpaca Silk.

All patterns shown, available in Knitting Gifts for Baby by Mel Clark. Available at your LYS, independent bookseller, or online.

It looks like I’m going to be a little busy, but I don’t mind at all… I’m going to be an Auntie!!!