Knit and Purl

Tanner and Abigail received LOTS of hand knit sweaters as gifts when they were born (and some after). They were each knit by a loving family member, friend, or coworker and I have kept all of them. There are a few that I have a new found appreciation for as a new mother...the zip up the back hooded baby sweater.

Sweaters knit by Kathrine Rauschnot

I recently (re)learned how to knit. I have made one scarf and a few dishcloths...that is the extent of my repertoire. As it is I have to be shown how to cast on stitches each time I begin a new dishcloth and I have yet to remember how to cast off. When I receive (or have received) a sweater for my children I am amazed because I can't imagine ever being able to knit one myself. The zip up the back hooded baby sweaters are AWESOME for several reasons:

Sweaters knit by Sandy Knowlton

1. The hood stays on. Tanner and Abigail aren't to keen on wearing hats so the fact that the hood is attached is perfect. In fact if I put the sweater on with the hood down Abby complains until I pull it up over her head. For some reason they don't mind hoods...hats not so much.
2. They are super easy to put on. Tanner and Abigail almost "walk" into their sweaters...arms in, hood over the head and ZIP!
3. They can't take them off. Since the zipper is in the back Tanner and Abigail can't unzip their sweaters and take them off like regular sweaters and/or jackets. Once they are one, they are on until an adult takes them off.
4. No ouchies! With the zipper in the back it is impossible to zip up your child's "neck meat" causing them to scream and cry for the next twenty minutes and potentially fear zippers for the rest of their life. You do need to be aware of their hair as you zip. I keep the hood down while I zip and then pull it up over their head.

Sweaters knit by Hazel Kopishke

If you are handy with the knitting needles or know someone who is I have found a pattern for these (WONDER) sweaters online (http://www.knittingonthenet.com/patterns/babyswezipback.htm). Since I am not a proficient knitter, I am not sure if this is a complete pattern. If it isn't I apologize. I also have a copy of the pattern my mother-in-law, Hazel (a.k.a. The Super Knitting Guru) uses when she makes them. I would be more than happy to send you a copy in the mail, since I can't post it on the blog due to copyright laws (as informed by my husband).

Sweaters knit by Sandy Knowlton

We get compliments on these sweaters wherever we go and since Tanner and Abigail have them in every size from 0-3 months up to 18-24 months we are the talk of the town every time we leave the house! If you don't have any "knit happy" friends or family members you can look for them at craft fairs (which are popping up this time of year) or put in an order with Mrs. Claus...when she finishes darning Santa's socks she can knit one up for your little "stocking stuffer".