Lots of people make baby hat patterns in the dead of winter, but why should all the summer newborns have to go without? Obviously you're not going to want to knit a heavy cap with earflaps out of Merino wool for an August babe, so let's check out somethings that are a bit lighter.

Here are some of my very favorite summer baby hat patterns!

1. Lacy Baby Hat

This is an adorable, soft, and light baby hat, perfect for any little girl this summer -- not too warm, but perfect for keeping baby's sensitive head protected from heat and wind. On top of that, it's very pretty and will last into the fall (assuming baby's head doesn't outgrow it by then...).

2. On the Sunny Side

I absolutely love this hat -- it makes baby look like a tulip top. Actually, this is one of the easier baby hat patterns you can make without getting too plain: it's a light cotton hat with pretty trim, perfect for everyone.

3. Baby Hat with Leaf Edging

If you have a friend who's a fan of Anne Geddes, she'll love this hat which, and I quote, "makes baby look like tree elf." Better still, the hat has lots of give so the baby can keep wearing it for a while (phew!). And to top it all off, it's absolutely adorable. What more can you ask of a baby hat?

4. Super Quick Baby Bonnet

Like many baby hat patterns, this one uses warm cozy wool -- not what you're looking for in the summer months. But I've made it using cotton, and the result is a lightweight and absolutely adorable baby bonnet. I mean, come on: it's a bonnet. Who can resist the chance to do some old-fashioned knitting?

Those are my favorite newfound baby hat patterns, but you can also check out a bunch of Nellie's free knitting patterns to keep you busy year round.

No matter when baby is born, Mom's sure to plunk a hat on that little head. Not only is it too cute, it protects baby from sun, wind, and cold alike. That's why knitters love making baby hats all year long, and the summer is no exception. Use these summer baby hat patterns for inspiration and to get started with your baby knitting in the warmer months.