Parasol Lace Tunic/Dress

Time to think about that perfect little winter top for your little one.  This little tunic, which can also be a short dress, is sized for 3, 6, 12, 18 months and features a parasol lace hem from Barbara G. Walker.  Charted and written for row by row directions, this is  fun stitch.  The twisted stitch bodice and Henley neck add comfort of this garment.

Reading lace charts can be challenging for some, but with the help of row by row instructions, this will  help you learn to read these more involved charts.  The lace pattern is really quite intuitive and then the rest of the pattern is a breeze.

Pattern is available at http://www.ravelry.com/designers/margie-mitchell  as well as on Craftsy and Paternfish.

Adding Cute Details to Baby Knits

Infant and toddlers are fun to knit for; the garments go quickly and often the construction is easy.

While easy construction is nice, adding a few details to make it special  adds that smart, unique look that says quality.  In the baby dress pictured, there are several details.  The front and back box pleats add room without the gathers that are so hard to look right in a knitted garment.  Then there is the frill bind off and cast on that add just a touch of frills without going overboard.  The waist has a one row purl border and a stockinette middle.

Then there are details that make the dress more user friendly; notice the V-back to add a little more room for baby’s head.  Coordinating color with a variagated yarn can add a fun touch with little extra work.

To purchase this design or my other designs, see my raverly page at http://www.ravelry.com/designers/margie-mitchell

I will be writing twice a month from now on,  in the middle of March I will be discussing neat and tidy knit and purl stitch patterns without hand strain.