Instructions for a Hankie Bonnet

Baby bonnets made from handkerchiefs are classic baby shower gifts that become instant heirlooms for the recipients. They are inexpensive and relatively easy to make, even if you have little or no sewing experience. Consider purchasing an antique handkerchief with lace accents from a vintage store to add to the classic feel of this gift, or opt for crisp new white handkerchief with a subtle lace or embroidered border.

Things You'll Need

• Handkerchief
• Iron
• Scissors
• Needle and thread
• 1/4-inch ribbon

Instructions

1. Iron the handkerchief to remove any wrinkles. Lay it out on a flat surface.

2. Fold the right side of the handkerchief over by about 1 inch. This will form the back of the bonnet. Fold the left side over by about 3 inches. This will form the front of the bonnet. Iron each fold to get a stiff edge.

3. Unfold the handkerchief and hand stitch a running stitch along first fold. A running stitch goes down through the fabric, then up again, with ample space in between stitches. Do not knot or finish off the stitch. Leave 1 inch or more of thread hanging loose at the end.

4. Fold the first fold again and pull the loose end of the the thread to gather the fabric into a rounded shape. This creates the rear end of the bonnet. Knot the thread in place.

5. Fold the second fold again to create the front of the bonnet. Fold each corner underneath to create a small triangle on the inside of each front edge. Stitch in place.

6. Stich an 8-inch-long piece of ribbon to the inside of both front edges to create a tie for the bonnet.

References

• Bumblebee Linens: Making a Hankie Bonnet
• Kitchen, Crafts & More: Making a Hanky Bonnet