Teeny, Tiny, Preemie Hats

These Teeny, Tiny, Preemie Hats are meant to fit premature infants. Give them as a gift of hope for parents, as milestones for growth, or as remembrances of tiny beginnings. I usually make 3 sizes as a gift, starting with one that will fit the baby right away. They’re a quick knit, so you can whip them up as soon as you hear the news. Wide flat ribbing is comfortable for baby’s head. Six sizes, by gestational age: (20-21 weeks; 21-22 weeks; 24-27 weeks; 28-29 weeks; 30-31 weeks; 32-36 weeks); remembering that baby head sizes vary. Any type of sock yarn will work - just make sure it's soft. I gave one set to a Mom of very early twins, and she said that while others were preparing her for her babies' possible death, I had sent her hats for them to grow into - hope! - and they did grow. Another parent told me what a big milestone it was for her preemie to grow into the next hat size. Don't worry about sending a hat that's too small - then the parent can see that there are babies smaller than theirs, and share them with someone who can wear it. Please don't sell these hats, or this pattern - knit for those who need warmth, comfort, and hope. Now available in German, too! Thanks to Yvonne Becker for the translation.