Knitting for Baby Units

[Eve]

Hi,

I've been doing ok with the knitting, still sticking to simple short projects so as not to aggravate my hands but managed to do a load of hats, booties and a cardigan for my nephews.

I have found a contact who gets people involved in knitting for the local baby hospital, mainly for premature or really poorly babies and, as in her case, for those who don't make it.

I have found some tips and ideas but thought I'd see if anyone else has nice simple patterns in small sizes (or easy to reduce) I could use - loads of free ones online but a bit hit and miss.

I am going to start with some hats and booties then try and do some other bits.

I wondered if anything like the baby comfort blankets would be used and something nice to have - like the small soft squares, usually with a cuddly animal head on like a cute bunny.

I don't have any children of my own so thought it would be good to get other ideas.

Thanks for any help :)

[Rose Maybud]

There are several organisations, including:

http://cuddles-uk.org/index.htm
Cuddles website has lots of patterns. They also have a yahoo group which is very active - lots of advice and companionship.

Also http://www.lovinghands.org.uk/patterns.htm

There is also SANDS (Stillborn and Neonatal Death Society) http://www.uk-sands.org/

and BLISS
http://www.bliss.org.uk/

They all have their particular requirements, but in general they like 'sets', that is, dress / suit, hat, bootees, blanket to wrap the baby, a smaller keepsake blanket and two small teds, one to put with the babe and one for the parents to keep. Yarn is to be the softest possible because the skin is so very fragile, and you can't go wrong with white or pastel colours.
That's probably enough for starters!

[2sp_]

That's a lovely thing to do Jenna.

These tiny items are so precious and gratefully received by maternity units and parents alike.

I would love to thank whoever knitted the little baby hats #2 was given when she came into the world a wee bit early and a wee bit wee. So, on behalf of future parents and babies you will be helping out - thank you!

[jkelly24]

I knit for www.uponbutterflywings.org they have some easy patterns on their site. Something called an angel wrap is very easy and are very much appreciated.