Free Pattern - Knit Layette (Part One)

While searching for some new inspiration, I came across this absolutely stunning knit layette and was awestruck when I found that it was free!  I just had to try it out!

Photo from pattern - not a Little Frills product

http://www.eileencaseycreations.com/free-patterns/baby-aran-body-suit-hat-booties/

What baby would not look absolutely adorable in this???  It even comes in 24 month size and while I would be so tempted to make this for my tiny soon to be 2 year old, I know that it would take me forever to complete...if ever!

Instead of jumping right in with the outfit, I decided to try the hat first.  I had a better chance of actually finishing a hat than completing a whole outfit.  I don't have access to the yarn suggested but I have a wide assortment of baby yarns to choose from...and I definitely had to have to check the gauge on this one (something I hate doing).

I was also going to have to read a chart for the first time...but I still wasn't scared off of this pattern.  It was just way too pretty and I would forever regret not attempting it..  I could do this!

After checking the gauge, I had to really go down to size 1 needles, most likely due to using a different type of yarn.  Even though I chose a baby yarn, I think it was still a little too thick.  I probably should have used a very light weight (fingering) yarn.

I dove right it.  So far so good...

After the ribbing, I took a few deep breaths and began the chart work.  I read it all several times, checked it again and again as I went along and eventually I got to the point that I could go a whole row without glancing at the chart at all.

15 hours later, I had this...

It's definitely not perfect but this is the most time I have ever spent on a hat and it was so rewarding to finish that last row!

And DONE!!!

This is such a great pattern that I will definitely be doing again but after I make a trip to the local supply store.  I plan on getting new double pointed needles.  My current ones are a set of 4 but I think having a set of 5 would be very helpful.  I think I am also going to go up a needle size.  Even though I checked my gauge, once I started going I'm pretty such my tension changed.  The sizing is great though for a newborn and the end result is beautiful!

I'm not sure which piece I will try next but I am definitely not done with this pattern...and it was FREE!!!