Layette Baby Gift
Article by KarensVariety.com

A layette is a set of baby clothes required by a newborn baby. The layette can be a matching set, or assembled from separate baby items. Many people love the opportunity to knit or crochet a layette and certainly, new mothers love to receive them.

If you decide to give a layette as a gift, you must first decide what baby items to include. Traditionally, a layette includes a sweater, bonnet, booties and blanket or shawl, often mittens and leggings are also included.

Layettes can also include baby dresses, capes, socks, one piece outfits, bunting bags.

Your next consideration is the size. Newborn babies range in size at birth and they grow very quickly. Do you want the baby to wear the outfit you make right away or later? Often, the time of year the baby is born determines the size. If born in the summer, you might want to make a larger size for the winter.

Sleeves on sweaters can be rolled up so you can make it larger for the newborn. You could add two hats and two sets of bootees that match the sweater, one larger and one newborn size.

The blanket should not be too small; it will last a long time if it is larger and can be used in both a cradle and a crib.

It is important to choose a yarn that is soft so that it will not irritate the baby's skin. It must also be machine washable and sturdy enough to survive several launderings.

Many parents know if they are going to have a girl or boy baby before it is born; others prefer not to know. Pink is for girls and blue is for boys; otherwise pastels such as white, yellow, lavender or mint green are the traditional colours used. You may prefer the traditional choices or try something new. Combine colours or use a variegated yarn. Break with tradition totally and try something bright and colourful.

A baby sweater can be a pullover, cardigan or a matinee coat (short coat for warmth). Pullovers usually have  one or two buttons on the seam from neck to shoulder so that it is easily pulled over baby's head. Cardigans and matinee coats can be buttoned from the neck to the bottom or have a few buttons at the yoke.  They can be made in one length or have a yoke with patterned body.

Bonnets are a baby's crowning glory and come in every type of design or pattern. It doesn't matter if a newborn baby is a boy or a girl, they can wear ruffles and lacy designs, or stocking hats and toques.

Every baby needs a variety of booties. Since baby's lie on their backs and kick their feet when you play with them, booties are a very important part of any outfit. Northern babies need mittens without thumbs to keep their hands warm.

Baby Leggings can have an elastic or drawstring waist; they must not be too tight on baby's tummy. They usually have feet attached.

There is a wide variety of styles and designs to choose from. Think of the new mother, would she like a traditional or modern style for her baby; pastels or bright colours? If you have seen her nursery, this can give you a good idea or what would delight her.
 

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