Knit Penguin Hat & Photo Prop
This penguin hat knitting pattern can help create some super special memories. When I first started designing knit and crochet patterns, I designed TONS of newborn photography prop patterns. There’s simply something so sweet about dressing a fresh little one up for their first photos.
On that note, my knit penguin hat and snuggle sack pattern is the perfect design for a baby shower gift or a photography studio. It also makes an excellent Halloween costume – baby will stay cozy warm all wrapped up in this penguin cocoon.
This pattern has been my best seller on Etsy for the last 2 years….and this is the first time it’s available free. Enjoy.
Knit Baby Penguin Pattern
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Poppy Penguin Hat and Snuggle Sack Knitting Pattern
Average Head Circumference Size Chart
13-14″ (33-35.5cm)
14-15″ (35.5-38cm)
14-17″ (35.5-43cm)
16-19″ (40.5-48cm)
18-20″ (45.75-50.75cm)
19-20.5″ (48.25-52cm)
Materials
- Yarn: Approximately 375 – 500 yards of worsted (4) yarn (Approx. 300 yards black, approx. 50 yards white, and approx. 25 yards orange for smaller sizes. Approx. 400 yards black, approx. 75 yards white, and approx. 25 yards orange for larger sizes) (I used Red Heart Super Saver)
- Size 5.0 mm (US8) Straight Needles and Double Pointed Needles (or use the Magic Loop Method). (Optional) Circular needles with cable length smaller than the circumference of the size you’re working on
- Yarn or Tapestry Needle
- Stitch Marker
- 2 – 5/8” (16mm) Buttons for eyes
Gauge
9 sts and 13 rows = 2 inches (5 centimeters) in Stockinette Stitch
***It is important to check your gauge!***
Abbreviations
- K: Knit
- P: Purl
- M1: Make 1: Insert left needle, front to back, under the strand between st on left needle and st on right needle making a new loop on left needle. Knit this loop through the back.
- K2tog: Knit the next 2 sts together
- **: Repeat the section in between the two stars as specified
**This pattern is written in US terms**
Newborn Pattern
Penguin Cocoon
Cast on 64 using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles or Circular Needles
Join in the round. Place stitch marker
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your project measures approx. 1.5” (3.75cm) in length from the starting edge.
Round 2: Knit
Repeat Round 2 until your project measures approx. 11.5 inches (29.25cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K3* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (52 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K2* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (40 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K1* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (28 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (16 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the bottom of cocoon. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the cocoon. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Belly Pattern:
Cast on 20 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Row 1: Knit
Repeat Row 1 until your piece measures approx. 7” (17.75cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Row 1: K2tog, K16, K2tog (18 total sts)
Row 2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K14, K2tog (16 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K12, K2tog (14 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog, K10, K2tog (12 total sts)
Row 8: Knit
Row 9: K2tog, K8, K2tog (10 total sts)
Bind off as if to knit. Weave in all ends.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew this piece to the center front of the cocoon just above the start of the decreases. The cast on edge should be closest to the decreases.
Penguin Feet Pattern:
Cast on 8 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Row 1: Knit
Row 2: K1, M1, K6, M1, K1 (10 total sts)
Row 3: Knit
Row 4: K1, M1, K8, M1, K1 (12 total sts)
Row 5: Knit
Rows 6-12: Knit
Row 13: *K4, Turn Work, K4, Turn Work, K2tog, K2tog, Turn Work, K2, Turn Work, K2, Turn Work, K2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat 2 more times to create 3 toes.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew feet onto cocoon)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew these pieces on either side of the base of the belly.
Newborn Hat Pattern
Cast on 56 sts using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles
Join in the round.
Place stitch marker.
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your piece measures approx. 1 inch (2.5cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Round 2: Knit
Continue to knit each round until your piece measures approx. 4 inches (10.25cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K5* Repeat around (48 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K4* Repeat around (40 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K3* Repeat around (32 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K2* Repeat around (24 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog, K1* Repeat around (16 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the top of hat. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the hat. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Cast on 16 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1-12: Knit
Row 13: *K2tog, K4, K2tog, Turn Work, K6, Turn Work, K2tog, K2, K2tog, Turn Work, Bind off as if to knit and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew face onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Cast on 6 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1&2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K2, K2tog (4 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K2tog (2 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew nose onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Baby 0-3 Months Pattern
Penguin Cocoon
Cast on 76 using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles or Circular Needles
Join in the round. Place stitch marker
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your project measures approx. 1.5” (3.75cm) in length from the starting edge.
Round 2: Knit
Repeat Round 2 until your project measures approx. 14 inches (35.5cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K4* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (64 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K3* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (52 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K2* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (40 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K1* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (28 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (16 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the bottom of cocoon. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the cocoon. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Belly Pattern:
Cast on 20 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Row 1: Knit
Repeat Row 1 until your piece measures approx. 7” (17.75cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Row 1: K2tog, K16, K2tog (18 total sts)
Row 2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K14, K2tog (16 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K12, K2tog (14 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog, K10, K2tog (12 total sts)
Row 8: Knit
Row 9: K2tog, K8, K2tog (10 total sts)
Bind off as if to knit. Weave in all ends.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew this piece to the center front of the cocoon just above the start of the decreases. The cast on edge should be closest to the decreases.
Penguin Feet Pattern:
Cast on 8 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Row 1: Knit
Row 2: K1, M1, K6, M1, K1 (10 total sts)
Row 3: Knit
Row 4: K1, M1, K8, M1, K1 (12 total sts)
Row 5: Knit
Rows 6-12: Knit
Row 13: *K4, Turn Work, K4, Turn Work, K2tog, K2tog, Turn Work, K2, Turn Work, K2, Turn Work, K2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat 2 more times to create 3 toes.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew feet onto cocoon)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew these pieces on either side of the base of the belly.
0-3 Month Hat Pattern
Cast on 60 sts using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles
Join in the round.
Place stitch marker.
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your piece measures approx. 1 inch (2.5cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Round 2: Knit
Continue to knit each round until your piece measures approx. 4.5 inches (11.5cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K13* Repeat around (56 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K5* Repeat around (48 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K4* Repeat around (40 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K3* Repeat around (32 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog, K2* Repeat around (24 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog, K1* Repeat around (16 total sts)
Round 7: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the top of hat. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the hat. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Cast on 16 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1-12: Knit
Row 13: *K2tog, K4, K2tog, Turn Work, K6, Turn Work, K2tog, K2, K2tog, Turn Work, Bind off as if to knit and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew face onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Cast on 6 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1&2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K2, K2tog (4 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K2tog (2 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew nose onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Baby 3-6 Months Pattern
Penguin Cocoon Pattern
Cast on 96 using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles or Circular Needles
Join in the round. Place stitch marker
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your project measures approx. 1.5” (3.75cm) in length from the starting edge.
Round 2: Knit
Repeat Round 2 until your project measures approx. 15.75 inches (40cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K10* Repeat around (88 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K5* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (76 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K4* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (64 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K3* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (52 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog, K2* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (40 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog, K1* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (28 total sts)
Round 7: *K2tog* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (16 total sts)
Round 8: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the bottom of cocoon. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the cocoon. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Belly Pattern:
Cast on 28 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Row 1: Knit
Repeat Row 1 until your piece measures approx. 8.75” (22.25cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Row 1: K2tog, K24, K2tog (26 total sts)
Row 2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K22, K2tog (24 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K20, K2tog (22 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog, K18, K2tog (20 total sts)
Row 8: Knit
Row 9: K2tog, K16, K2tog (18 total sts)
Row 10: Knit
Row 11: K2tog, K14, K2tog (16 total sts)
Row 12: Knit
Row 13: K2tog, K12, K2tog (14 total sts)
Row 14: Knit
Row 15: K2tog, K10, K2tog (12 total sts)
Row 16: Knit
Row 17: K2tog, K8, K2tog (10 total sts)
Bind off as if to knit. Weave in all ends.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew this piece to the center front of the cocoon just above the start of the decreases. The cast on edge should be closest to the decreases.
Penguin Feet Pattern:
Cast on 8 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Row 1: Knit
Row 2: K1, M1, K6, M1, K1 (10 total sts)
Row 3: Knit
Row 4: K1, M1, K8, M1, K1 (12 total sts)
Row 5: Knit
Rows 6-12: Knit
Row 13: *K4, Turn Work, K4, Turn Work, K2tog, K2tog, Turn Work, K2, Turn Work, K2, Turn Work, K2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat 2 more times to create 3 toes.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew feet onto cocoon)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew these pieces on either side of the base of the belly.
3-6 Month Hat Pattern
Cast on 68 sts using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles
Join in the round.
Place stitch marker.
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your piece measures approx. 1 inch (2.5cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Round 2: Knit
Continue to knit each round until your piece measures approx. 4.75 inches (12cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K15* Repeat around (64 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K6* Repeat around (56 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K5* Repeat around (48 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K4* Repeat around (40 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog, K3* Repeat around (32 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog, K2* Repeat around (24 total sts)
Round 7: *K2tog, K1* Repeat around (16 total sts)
Round 8: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the top of hat. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the hat. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Cast on 20 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1-17: Knit
Row 18: *K2tog, K6, K2tog, Turn Work, K8, Turn Work, K2tog, K4, K2tog, Turn Work, K6, Turn Work, K2tog, K2, K2tog, Turn Work Bind off as if to knit and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew face onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Cast on 6 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1&2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K2, K2tog (4 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K2tog (2 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew nose onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Baby 6-12 Months Pattern
Penguin Cocoon Pattern
Cast on 104 using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles or Circular Needles
Join in the round. Place stitch marker
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your project measures approx. 1.5” (3.75cm) in length from the starting edge.
Round 2: Knit
Repeat Round 2 until your project measures approx. 17.5 inches (44.5cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K24* Repeat around (100 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K6* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (88 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K5* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (76 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K4* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (64 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog, K3* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (52 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog, K2* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (40 total sts)
Round 7: *K2tog, K1* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (28 total sts)
Round 8: *K2tog* Repeat 11 more times, K4 (16 total sts)
Round 9: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the bottom of cocoon. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the cocoon. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Belly Pattern:
Cast on 28 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Row 1: Knit
Repeat Row 1 until your piece measures approx. 8.75” (22.25cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Row 1: K2tog, K24, K2tog (26 total sts)
Row 2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K22, K2tog (24 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K20, K2tog (22 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog, K18, K2tog (20 total sts)
Row 8: Knit
Row 9: K2tog, K16, K2tog (18 total sts)
Row 10: Knit
Row 11: K2tog, K14, K2tog (16 total sts)
Row 12: Knit
Row 13: K2tog, K12, K2tog (14 total sts)
Row 14: Knit
Row 15: K2tog, K10, K2tog (12 total sts)
Row 16: Knit
Row 17: K2tog, K8, K2tog (10 total sts)
Bind off as if to knit. Weave in all ends.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew this piece to the center front of the cocoon just above the start of the decreases. The cast on edge should be closest to the decreases.
Penguin Feet Pattern:
Cast on 8 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Row 1: Knit
Row 2: K1, M1, K6, M1, K1 (10 total sts)
Row 3: Knit
Row 4: K1, M1, K8, M1, K1 (12 total sts)
Row 5: Knit
Rows 6-12: Knit
Row 13: *K4, Turn Work, K4, Turn Work, K2tog, K2tog, Turn Work, K2, Turn Work, K2, Turn Work, K2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat 2 more times to create 3 toes.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew feet onto cocoon)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew these pieces on either side of the base of the belly.
6-12 Month Hat Pattern
Cast on 72 sts using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles
Join in the round.
Place stitch marker.
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your piece measures approx. 1 inch (2.5cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Round 2: Knit
Continue to knit each round until your piece measures approx. 5.25 inches (13.25cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K7* Repeat around (64 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K6* Repeat around (56 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K5* Repeat around (48 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K4* Repeat around (40 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog, K3* Repeat around (32 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog, K2* Repeat around (24 total sts)
Round 7: *K2tog, K1* Repeat around (16 total sts)
Round 8: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the top of hat. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the hat. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Cast on 20 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1-17: Knit
Row 18: *K2tog, K6, K2tog, Turn Work, K8, Turn Work, K2tog, K4, K2tog, Turn Work, K6, Turn Work, K2tog, K2, K2tog, Turn Work Bind off as if to knit and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew face onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Cast on 6 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1&2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K2, K2tog (4 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K2tog (2 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew nose onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Toddler 1-3 Year Hat Pattern
Cast on 80 sts using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles
Join in the round.
Place stitch marker.
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your piece measures approx. 1 inch (2.5cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Round 2: Knit
Continue to knit each round until your piece measures approx. 5.5 inches (14cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K8* Repeat around (72 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K7* Repeat around (64 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K6* Repeat around (56 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K5* Repeat around (48 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog, K4* Repeat around (40 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog, K3* Repeat around (32 total sts)
Round 7: *K2tog, K2* Repeat around (24 total sts)
Round 8: *K2tog, K1* Repeat around (16 total sts)
Round 9: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the top of hat. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the hat. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Cast on 24 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1-17: Knit
Row 18: *K2tog, K8, K2tog, Turn Work, K10, Turn Work, K2tog, K6, K2tog, Turn Work, K8, Turn Work, K2tog, K4, K2tog, Turn Work, K6, Turn Work, K2tog, K2, K2tog, Turn Work Bind off as if to knit and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew face onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Cast on 6 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1&2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K2, K2tog (4 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K2tog (2 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew nose onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Child 3-10 Year Hat Pattern
Cast on 84 sts using black yarn onto Double Pointed Needles
Join in the round.
Place stitch marker.
Round 1: *K2, P2* Repeat around
Repeat Round 1 until your piece measures approx. 1 inch (2.5cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Round 2: Knit
Continue to knit each round until your piece measures approx. 6 inches (15.25cm) in length from the cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, K19* Repeat around (80 total sts)
Round 2: *K2tog, K8* Repeat around (72 total sts)
Round 3: *K2tog, K7* Repeat around (64 total sts)
Round 4: *K2tog, K6* Repeat around (56 total sts)
Round 5: *K2tog, K5* Repeat around (48 total sts)
Round 6: *K2tog, K4* Repeat around (40 total sts)
Round 7: *K2tog, K3* Repeat around (32 total sts)
Round 8: *K2tog, K2* Repeat around (24 total sts)
Round 9: *K2tog, K1* Repeat around (16 total sts)
Round 10: *K2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Do not bind off. Cut approx. 7 inch tail. Using yarn needle, remove all sts from DPNs or magic loop, as if to purl. Pull tail through sts to cinch the top of hat. Using yarn needle, pull tail through to the inside of the hat. Tie a knot and weave in ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Cast on 24 using white yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1-17: Knit
Row 18: *K2tog, K8, K2tog, Turn Work, K10, Turn Work, K2tog, K6, K2tog, Turn Work, K8, Turn Work, K2tog, K4, K2tog, Turn Work, K6, Turn Work, K2tog, K2, K2tog, Turn Work Bind off as if to knit and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew face onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to sew face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Cast on 6 using orange yarn onto Straight Needles
Rows 1&2: Knit
Row 3: K2tog, K2, K2tog (4 total sts)
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K2tog, K2tog (2 total sts)
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K2tog
Secure and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use to sew nose onto hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
This design, a written work and images are a copyright of
©MelodysMakings and may not be copied or reproduced in any way.
You have permission to sell finished products made from this pattern, but please leave a link to my website, www.melodys-makings.com, in your product listing specifying that I am the designer of this pattern. Thank you for supporting me as a work at home mother!
21 Comments On “Knit Penguin Hat & Photo Prop”
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Melody, I think its awesome that you are sharing your experiences. I have been battling bipolar disorder my entire adult life. The highs can be so dangerous and the lows can be so hard. I know my depression side can be hard to detect sometimes. Its not always about being sad. My depression can be from not wanting to get out of bed, not wanting to shower, not wanting to talk to anyone, just plain blahs. It usually hits me worse in the fall/winter months. So, this is the worst time for me. Its like I don’t feel anything emotional. I am on meds and stable now so thankfully I have no symptoms now. Its great that you are helping bring about awareness of mental illness. Its important that we break the stigma.
Thank you for those encouraging words Brandy! I was first diagnosed with bipolar too (though I really don’t know if that’s what this is or not) and it’s a bit overwhelming. Being able to share support and encouragement along the way has made a huge difference. I hope you’ll keep checking in throughout the month 🙂
Thank you so much for not just the pattern, but for sharing your soul with us. I have a pretty big gap thanks to my anxiety and depression and it’s exhausting to maintain. You being upfront and honest about it makes me feel less alone and more willing to narrow the gap, and I’m grateful for you.
Yay! If I inspire even one person to live more authentically, then my job here will be done. It feels unnatural at first, but the more you do it, the better it feels….and the more benefit you see in your life. I’ll be sharing more tips about closing the gap and what that really means throughout the month….so I hope you’ll check back in tomorrow!
Thank you for your candor. It’s not easy to be transparent on social media. In this moment, my challenge is traveling with a child exhibiting opposition. It’s hard to shake it off and enjoy what is beautiful.
On a happy note, I just showed my other son the penguin and asked if I should make it. He said, “ I don’t know, Mom, it’s pretty hard to knit a kid.”
First off Melody, I have to thank you for the patterns you are so graciously giving us, its really very generous of you…
And thanks for sharing your struggles, it does help sometimes if people read that other people are not perfect and its not the “just you” way of thinking.
Im with you all the way when it comes to depression, gap, the whole thing. Mine started with cancer, separating from my husband, empty next syndrome with my kids, medical probs from chemo and on and on. Im in the still struggling stage as living alone is one of the things ive always not wanted. But im slowly, slowly starting to wake up and smell the roses so to speak…
Sending lots of love and hugs to you!
Thank you for your bravery in sharing your story. It is an encouragement to us all.
I’d say I have a semi gap due to the passing of my Mom, loads of sad feelings but I keep busy doing favorite things and working!
Thanks for sharing Melody. Your posts have made me rethink where I am at with my journey & not where I thought I was. I went to a therapist to get tools to assist me and they work. Having someone to talk to is huge. I have a friend that I reach out on a regular basis. She listens and then starts asking questions. Sometimes those questions make me mad because I have to deal with the issue head on and I don’t want to. The end result is a mentally better me.
Also makes me very aware that the person who is always happy & helpful may be the one who really needs someone to listen to them.
Love this comment. A lot of truth here. Sending love and hugs to you!
I remember a coleague of mine being very surprised when I said I was depressed. She said: “No way, you’re always laughing!”. Wel, we all know the masks we put on just because some people cannot accept mental ilness is real and sometimes it’s so hard to share your feelings.
Sending lots of love, Melody. You are not alone!
Just want to say I’m following along. I have had depression since a teen (68 now). The worst of it was when I was raising my children, grieving because I couldn’t have another after 3 and young hysterectomy. I refused antidepressants until kids were older and I feel I was not a great mom because of that.
I truly believe there is a personal chemistry link to much depression. I say to all on here: Please do not allow your own or anyone else’s shame or prejudice prevent you from getting help, including meds and talk therapy or group.
Melody, I had not heard of the gap until your post. I think everyone has or will deal with depression sometime. You are sharing valuable information and insights to us. Appreciate you so much!
Ahh! I’m glad your finding some valuable info here 🙂 Thanks for the supportive comment.
Thank you for sharing your heart with us. The past couple of years have lead to chronic pain and migraines to the point my students ask me daily if I have a migraine or my husband and I only make tentative plans based on how I may feel. This constant focus on my issues has created this need to put on a happy face and get through whatever. I deal with at-risk high school kids so their neediness on top of my “fake it til you make it” functional face is exhausting. The gap grows. I just want to spend my nights and weekends at home knitting just to emotionally recuperate enough not to trigger a migraine. It is depressing.
It sounds like you’ve got a lot on your plate. I’m sending so many hugs and tons of love your way. I hope you’ll find some encouragement in these posts throughout the month <3
Oh my YES! I have a gap! I laugh, cut up, act like I know what I am doing but on the inside…. I’m crying, questioning over and over again ‘what have I done that was SO wrong that I deserve what I’m going through. I live in Chronic Pain daily, hourly, every stinking minute! I can’t do anything but sit or lay around and if I do…. I’m in agony for trying to cook a meal, go to the bathroom, get cleaned up, or laundry. I hide in my gap. I tell NO one what I’m truly feeling.
I think most of us do! It’s hard to speak from our authentic truths all the time. Sending love. Thanks for joining in the conversation! Love it.
Hi Melody. I think one of the worst things is the dreaded question every morning at work – “how are you?”. I feel like there are two options, just say “good thanks, how about you?”. Whereas the truth may be “feeling pretty rough actually, took all my strength just to get here today”. But who wants to hear that? And I don’t necessarily want to have the conversation that might follow.
I know this feeling well! I usually end up going with the option that will best support me in the moment. Because you’re right – there simply isn’t always the strength to go deep into the big conversations. Sometimes just keeping one foot in front of the other is all we can do….and you know what? It’s always enough!