Our new bonnet pattern is a good example of how the pattern design process can lead to unexpected and wonderful places... We set out to draft a deeper brim for the Evergreen Bonnet, but after much experimentation and revising, the Riverstone Bonnet was born!
We are so pleased with how this sweet little bonnet has turned out - simple, clean lines result in a modern take on the classic bonnet. It fulfills our original goal as well, with a lovely deep brim that protects babies and children from the elements.
The Riverstone Bonnet is perfectly sweet, multi-season bonnet that fastens with ties or a chin strap. The beautiful shaping is achieved with a simple side pleat, which snugs in the back and gives a nice trim shape without the use of elastic. The pattern includes options for two deep, functional brim styles: a half brim (pictured above) or a full brim that comes all the way down to the base of the bonnet (pictured below). The Riverstone can also be made without a brim for a classic cap style.
The Riverstone Bonnet is finished with bias binding that continues seamlessly into the ties or chin strap. The neat bias-bound construction method results in a fully-reversible bonnet with a lovely clean finish. There's also lots of scope for playing with contrasting details and interesting fabric combinations.
There are so many fabric possibilities for the Riverstone, making it a truly multi-season bonnet. Lightweight linen, cotton, or chambray are perfect for a warm-weather sun bonnet. But heavier fabrics work well too - corduroy, medium-weight wool, velveteen, denim - all would make a lovely wee bonnet. Add a fuzzy sherpa or flannel for an extra-cosy lining.
Remember that the bonnet requires only small cuts of fabric, so is a perfect candidate for upcycling unused garments - for example, a large men's dress shirt or women's skirt would yield plenty of fabric for making a bonnet.
For those who love the look of animal bonnets, we are pleased to say that the Riverstone is compatible with ears from any of our animal patterns. It offers all the functionality of a sun bonnet, with the charming appeal of added ears.
The Riverstone pattern includes a range of sizes that will accommodate newborns to big kids (34.9cm/15" - 54.6cm/21.5" head size). The pattern includes a print-at-home PDF file sized for US Letter/A4 paper, including "layers" so that you can select just the size(s) you need. As ever, the pattern includes a clear and detailed tutorial with photos and videos to guide you through every step of the process.
We are so pleased with how this little bonnet has turned out - the deep brim for sun protection, the lovely simple shaping, and the bias trim are exactly what we envisioned. We hope that you enjoy sewing the Riverstone - we can't wait to see what you make.
We'd love to see you over at the Twig + Tale Facebook group where you can ask questions, look for inspiration, and of course share photos of your creations. You can also find us on Instagram - be sure to tag your projects #twigandtale so that we can find you too!
~The lovely photos in this post were taken by Jeanique Kats, Ruth Phillips, and Brittany Wood~
