If you’re expecting a baby and thinking about learning to knit, you’re in very good company. Knitting for a new arrival is one of the loveliest ways to slow down, learn something new, and create meaningful pieces for your baby.
You might be completely new to knitting, or perhaps the skill has been passed down to you by a relative – a niece or nephew, an auntie or uncle, or even a helpful neighbour. If not, there are now so many brilliant online tutorials to get you started. We often recommend Wool and the Gang for clear beginner videos and modern, easy-to-follow guides:
👉 https://www.woolandthegang.com
Knitting is also a gorgeous baby shower idea – instead of gifts, ask friends and family to each knit something small for the baby. You’ll end up with a keepsake collection full of love (and very cute photos).
Here are our favourite beginner knitting projects to make while pregnant, starting with the simplest and building your confidence as you go.
1. Simple Crossover Slip-On Baby Shoes
This is one of the best first knitting projects. These tiny shoes are made entirely in knit stitch (garter stitch), worked as a simple T-shape and then stitched into a slipper.
Once you’ve made one pair, you can easily customise them – add little pompoms, embroidery, or a simple chain stitch ankle tie to help keep them on wriggly feet. Quick, practical, and very satisfying.
2. Garter Stitch Beanie
A garter stitch beanie is a brilliant introduction to shaping, using a simple knit two together decrease.
Chunky yarns are great if you want a fast knit, but Aran and DK weights make perfect first hospital hats. Just be sure to choose a yarn that’s soft and baby-friendly – wool is a natural fibre but can sometimes feel a bit rough, so it’s worth visiting your local yarn shop and having a feel.
Soft greys and warm beiges work beautifully for a first hat, or you can match it to your knitted shoes for a coordinated set. We have added a pompom to ours but ensure your pompom is worked super tight and the strands cannot be pulled free by baby. Hand wash is recommended for all pompoms
3. Knitted Bunting
Bunting is a fun, low-pressure way to practise shaping. Each triangle helps you learn how stitches change to create shape, and the finished result is a sweet addition to a nursery or baby’s room.
It’s also a great project if you like knitting in short bursts. Again you can practice your pompom making skills. Use a simple chain stitch to attach your bunting.
Pattern at Ravelry
4. A Simple Baby Blanket
Blankets do take longer, but if you have time during pregnancy, they’re perfect “hands busy, mind relaxed” projects – ideal for knitting while watching a box set or at a knit-and-natter group.
You don’t have to work complicated colour changes either. There are some brilliant self-striping and ombré yarns available that do all the work for you. Take a look at the options on LoveCrafts:
👉 https://www.lovecrafts.com
5. Scarf Wrap / Stroller Blanket
This versatile pattern is worked entirely in garter stitch with minimal shaping, making it excellent for beginners who want to really master their knitting rhythm.
Originally designed as a modesty wrap, it also works perfectly as a stroller blanket – and long after baby has outgrown it, it can still be worn as a scarf. A practical knit that grows with you.
6. Stocking Stitch Hat
Stocking stitch is worked by knitting one row, then purling the next, and it’s one of the most commonly used stitches in knitting.
This hat is worked flat and straight, then stitched together at the corners to form the crown. Once you’ve mastered stocking stitch, you’ll unlock the skills needed for countless future patterns using simple knit and purl combinations.
Pattern at Ravelry
7. Hat and Cocoon Set (Basket Weave Stitch)
If you’re ready to try something textured, a hat and cocoon set is a wonderful next step. Basket weave is a reversible stitch pattern that looks impressive but is very beginner-friendly.
It’s worked by knitting four stitches, then purling four stitches, repeating across the row for four rows. Then you swap – purl four, knit four – again for four rows. This creates a beautifully textured fabric.
We even made ours with a matching scarf, and the cocoon can later be worn as a cosy hat for yourself once baby has finished with it.
A Final Tip for Beginner Baby Knitters
Always prioritise soft, baby-friendly yarns, and don’t be afraid to keep things simple. These early projects aren’t about perfection – they’re about learning, slowing down, and making something full of love for your baby.
Happy knitting 💙
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