HINTS & TIPS FOR PREMIE KNITTERS

Specific requirements of Hospital units.

 Chesterfield – Hats - Ventilator & Plain Bonnets with ties or Beanies

                      Cardigans – 10 inches upwards with V-neck & Loose Cuffs,

Bootees - No ribbons

 Sheffield – Hats – Plain Bonnets with ties or Beanies

                  Cardigans – 12 inches upwards as above 

                  Blankets – Knitted (not crocheted or lacy)

Bootees

 Derby – Hats – Plain Bonnets with ties or Beanies

             Cardigans – 10 inches upward as above

             Blankets – as above

 Nottingham – Hats – Ventilator & Plain Bonnets with ties or Beanies

                      Cardigans – 10 inches upward as above

TIPS ON KNITTING

Size

See above for smallest size for each unit. 10, 12 & 14inch most needed.

 Colour

Pastel shades are in greatest demand, ie: white, pink, green, blue, yellow, peach, lilac. Bright and dark colours are not so suitable but could be used for stripes.

 Type of Wool

Baby double Knit or 4ply are best, soft for delicate skins.

 Fastenings

Garments are best being neat uncluttered and practical. Ribbons should not be used for fastening. Plain Flat buttons about ½ inch in diameter are preferred. Avoid nylon or metal fasteners as they get hot under heaters.

 Garment Types

Cardigans are the most frequently used garments, for ease of use V-neck are best.  Cuffs and shoulder seams need plenty of give. Raglan sleeves are good for this. Cast on and off loosely, garter stitch or moss stitch make stretchy cuffs. Stocking stitch provides a smooth knit garment, comfortable for baby to lie on. You can jazz up your garments with a little cable or a pattern after the welt but leave sleeves plain.

Seams should be as flat as possible with no knots. Knitting back and fronts as one helps reduce seams.