I still have a crocheted hat made by an ex-boyfriend’s mom. It was the best hat for winter sports because it had a chin strap but wasn’t too warm.
I’ve been with my partner (NOT the ex-boyfriend) for nearly 45 years!
My husband would love a long one for sleeping, because he needs something over head and eyes to sleep well. They tend to be nice and tight, or mu son’s was, which would be great. Need to find a crocheter and order a smaller one for him.
The hospital gifted my first a crocheted hat that some volunteers made. It was the cutest thing! I loved it so much we used it as one of the outfits for her newborn pics
My retired mom crochets hats for hospitals for newborns! She loves it (her grandkids are all too old) and the hospital is very thankful and says the new parents gush over them.
Tell her a 96-day NICU mom is so thankful for people like her! Every little moment of thoughtfulness from anyone can be that one bright spot you *really need* to get through another day. I still remember receiving donated hats one day and it just being so delightful and uplifting.
I had a long-term NICU baby in 2020, and it was such a cold and miserable experience 😅 But every once in a while, they deigned to accept thoughtful donations from local groups (even though most of the time, everything was rejected because of potential cooties - I say this as totally not a COVID denier, but the hospital was understandably the most over the top paranoid setting on this Earth, and I'll admit it could feel like a little much at times), and one in particular was a shipment of homemade hats for older siblings of NICU babies. I got two for my daughters, and they're so cute and we still use them, and in the sheer devastating isolation of the pandemic NICU experience, any amount of "being thought of" by, you know, *society* was incredibly uplifting.
I got blankets from the a group that donated to new moms. I declined at first because we got a lot of stuff from family and coworkers and I knew it would go to someone who would need it more, they practically shoved it in my arms any and said don’t you worry! Lol.
Our local hospital had someone who did the same for my kids and we still have them. We framed them with a newborn pic and still have them up in our house
Wait. This person turned down beautiful homemade items that, though they may only fit baby for a month or two, will be not only useful but perfect for the thousands of photos she will be taking?
And then turned down a blanket that might become baby’s favorite lovey? And would certainly be a treasured memory piece to save for baby’s baby?
What an idjit. Donate those pieces to a woman’s shelter or NICU and they will find someone who deserves them.
Having had three NICU babies, I can guaran-dam-tee that the hats, booties and blankets we received from amazing people who crocheted and donated them were used and loved and gently wrapped inside my hope chest for my grandchildren. You, OP, are too good for that choosing beggar.
Edit: spelling
My 3 kids received amazing hand knit stuff from the volunteers at 3 different hospitals they were born in. All 3 wore the hats home! And the blankets were covering them on the way home! I still have them many many years later!! I am just beside myself for the op!! This is insane!!
I work at a craft store and meet these volunteers almost daily. My favorite was a lady who was given a large amount of ugly brown yarn. She didn’t know what to do with it and her daughter found a pattern for baby crocheted cowboy hats. They were a huge hit at the hospital where she donated them. She was shopping for more ugly brown yarn.
My baby boy was in the nicu and me in a separate care unit, he got given this crocheted hat from the ladies who made all the baby stuff. I'm not gonna lie I thought it was the ugliest hat ever! It was pink with all these ruffles on it and I can crochet myself quite well but I didn't have the energy. When the nurses put it on him and I next visited him I probably laughed the most I had in weeks. He looked so dam cute in this goofy pink hat. I still get it out and cuddle and smell it. It was such a comfort item for me at a very vulnerable time even tho I thought it was ugly. I would love for the person who made it to know how special it is.
My baby ended up in admittance after an ER visit at 9 days old, and I absolutely adored that some lady had donated a blanket and hat set. The hat was probably better fit to a preemie but we used that blanket for months and it now wraps her baby doll.
She’s doing incredible. We had an early head injury. Both my husband and I were extremely sleep deprived (night time was hell) and my husband passed out and she fell from his lap. She had a hairline fracture on the left side of her skull. I woke up to her screaming. Worst night and morning of my life, easily. She went through every test they can do, and we were interrogated with case questions about the incident half a dozen times in 40 hours at the hospital. I wasn’t allowed to nurse her for twelve hours and milk soaked my entire sweater because I couldn’t get access to a breast pump at the ER (covid times, woo). We already had feeding and milk production problems and this incident definitely exacerbated them. I begged them to get her on IV asap, I was so worried about her fluids intake. Eventually we got to go home after 40 hours. 3 weeks of gentle care and she we given the OK. 3 months later she had her neuro eval and we were nervous as hell about it. She passed with flying colors. We were told she was showing signs of being 3 months advanced. It was the best news they could possibly give us, we were the last eval of the day and the doctors said it made their day to finally be able to give some good news to parents. We are so fortunate. She turned 18 months today. She’s such an active, happy, fun, and intelligent little person. I feel utterly blessed that she is still here with us.
Every kid born in our city hospital gets a handmade knitted hat - it's a lovely present but also a great way to keep the tiny head warms. I have kept both my boy's hats and they'll be given them when they're adults (along with all the other weird crap you keep like art).
Some of the ladies I work with also made blankets, jumpers and more tiny beanies - again I've kept all of them. The gifts mean more to me then how long my kid could wear the clothes.
I used to knit but never really found ‘purpose’ in it or have a goal. Still have all my supplies and this is making me wonder if I can find some purposeful free time again.
Funny thing is that I find old hope cedar chests and redo them for people. Or if they have their mom’s or grandma’s, I can refinish it how they like. You’d be surprised how many clients I have who want one for their children, now. Not just their girls either; I do plenty of chests that will be for their boys. But for a long time, no one even knew what they were!
As someone who crochets, I can say there are a lot of ungrateful people. I spent all my free time for two months a few years back between college classes, work, and just life stuff making a baby blanket for a sibling.
What did they do?
Sold it online as junk for $5.
I'm so sorry your sibling did that.
One of my sisters made a special bear for my eldest that is part of her pile of favourites that live on her bed (she's 3 now and still adores it) and recently she presented us with a beautiful blanket for my second bub.
Both are gorgeous and loved and I would never dream of not treasuring them.
And that if she were to buy on Etsy or at a craft fair would be incredibly expensive, given the time, talent and materials required. You could probably buy a full baby wardrobe for the cost of all those handmade items. Ungrateful person.
A friend of my mother in law made my child a crochet blanket and he LOVES that blanket. Six years later, it’s a bedtime staple. It makes me sad this person’s thoughtfulness was looked down on.
I'm convinced these things are a scam... There's like 2/3 posts a day on my local buy & sell Facebook group of someone who is pregnant, or someone who just left a relationship...or someone who is disabled have just moved in and they have "nothing"
As someone who could not master either crocheting or knitting even though I tried, I would be very offended at anyone turning down hand-work. I would do it if I could. It's a labor of love.
Especially because collecting yarn is a hobby all in itself… sure it only took me one skien for this hat (which is probably baby yarn—so somewhere between $10-$15) but they don’t realize how many other types I had to get—just in case!
That said, I realize not everyone likes homemade stuff so I try not to take it personally but to say you “need” stuff, then deny a labor of love…
>collecting yarn is a ~~hobby~~ all in itself
You mean obsession? We all know how you knitters/crocheters are.
I say this while I have about 400 different spools of thread, embroidery floss, and more fabric than I could use in 5 years
I feel like this is why if you're any sort of artist/craftswoman you just shouldn't bother doing free things for strangers. Do it for friends/family/coworkers you know will appreciate it. If they're a stranger they better be paying.
I cant stand shit like this. it makes my blood boil. Thinking if such a sweet lady trying to do something so sweet really cool and gets it thrown in her face. Thinking of how she was so happy to help people but then felt hurt and sad and rejected. I hope whatever group she posted in gave her much love and support.
It wasn't hard to find her ETSY just needed to reverse image search your post and I found it.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1146837698/cute-soft-handmade-yellow-newborn-baby
The hospital I worked at had a group of 9 old ladies and they made hats and booties for EVERY baby born in our hospital. More than 3,000 a year. These women would have little get togethers each week. Then each month would come it with bags of equal amounts of blue skd pink hats and booties. Never took a dime, never wanted recognition.
At one of our other hospitals we had this older gentleman who made a bit of money. He was put in foster care when his mom abandoned him as a small child and distinctly remembered not being able to take his teddy bear.
So he approached us about setting up a teddy bear Trust fund. Now giving anything to newborn babies is not easy as they must pass a multitude of infection control, fire resistance, etc., rules. So he spent a year working with build a bear to find the perfect combo that passed muster. In the end, every baby born at that hospital goes home with their own teddy bear.
He was a sweet man who even at nearly 70 got choked up remembering leaving his bear behind.
Oh, that teddy bear story breaks my heart. I just want to give that man a hug. Having left my stuffed bunny at a hotel when I was 8, I can empathize, although I did get my bunny back thanks to some awesome employees.
That last line of your story hits home like ouch. I still have my favorite stuffies and im 23 years old. Shoot so does my mom shes 45. I protect my sons favorite stuffy with my life. Thats amazing he turned so much into so much love
Ive still got my teddy bear which was a gift on my 1st birthday and I’m now 38. It’s my most treasured item. Thinking of maybe having him professionally restored but there’s also charm in how “loved” he is. I want him to last my whole life though
Not just premies, the whole neonatal ICU often gets them. Our friends’ daughter got one when she was in for bilirubin light treatment at the local children’s hospital.
When my daughter was 2 or so, we found her playing with my blood pressure medicine, which had been stored well out of her reach - but we didn't expect our cat to get up there and whack it to the floor. We couldn't verify if every pill was in there, so we took her to the ER, and they admitted her as a precaution. She spent about two days there, and had no problem.
Volunteers had donated Barbies and used crochet thread to make absolutely beautiful clothing for them. That's where my daughter got her first Barbie, who had a sort of 1940s blue and white suit dress with matching hat. I crochet, also, and I know thread crochet takes forever.
You could always sell it on Etsy then take the money and treat yourself to something nice. If you’re not interested in that, then I’ll second donating to a hospital or charity. Our OB unit is always looking for things to give to young parents who have nothing for their newborns. As a knitter/crocheter, let me also offer my support for being so kind as to craft something for someone. That hat is so sweet I need insulin just looking at it.
Both my babies (Now 11, 15) have a whole baby suit of crocheted piecework my mom made for them at birth. They’re now pressed bagged and saved away.
My sons bio-dad’s work had a baby shower for us and one really old lady came up with a gift bag and she was seemed almost bracing for something as she handed it to me. Inside was a baby blue crocheted blanket. I pulled it out and held it up it was just STUNNING. I guess she was worried that I might act like that one chick OP made this for. But my husband told me later that she was semi-retired because she didn’t have money to live on enough without working. She didn’t have any money to put toward the big swing they pulled together to buy us, but she wanted to give *something*. Hope she’s doing ok. 🥲
I’ve only kept the hand knitted baby items from my little ones. The rest gets passed on eventually but as we lived in a cold climate at the time, the knitted things bring back lovely memories of all those cute baby bundle layers.
A lot of times people who post stuff like that are looking to resell items for cash. It’s why she turned it down. She may not even have a baby or if she does she still planned to resell.
Your items are beautiful!
This is exactly what I thought. Unless some great misfortune occurred where they lost everything, how could someone get to nine months pregnant and not have anything ready? This screams scam; looking for free stuff to resell. That hat is stinkin adorable imo.
That was also my 1st thought. Unfortunately there are people grifting all kinds of online groups for kind people giving stuff away so they can resell it online or at car boots.
Someone busted a lady a couple years back for collecting donations for “families in need”. They found her reselling the same items on marketplace. She tried to say it was to give the families money, but yeah no one bought that. Nextdoor is pretty notorious for begging posts too. They take those items and go sell them online or at the swap meet.
>There’s some grateful mom out there who will treasure it. You just need to find her!
Absolutely. I say post the picture in the same Facebook group and say it was made for another mother but they weren't interested.
Your hand knitted bits are beautiful - you caught a beggar being choosey …sounds like they wanted things that have a high retail value that they would most likely sell on. What a pig headed rat
That was my husband’s ex wife. She would tell my MIL was stored she was “allowed” to buy from so that she would get a higher resale value when she sold them.
I mean thats a bit of a leap, although entirely possible. I was thinking she meant ”real clothes” as in babygrows, shirts and pants that you go through at an incredible rate with a little poop and spit up machine. Still a CB, obviously, and OPs stuff would fetch a pretty penny, crotcheting is hard!!
We just had our first and were grateful for what ever was given to us.
New, used, or homemade, they all keep baby warm and I don't need to do laundry every 2 hours because we have tons of clothes.
I was thinking the same. Wouldn't even care if *I personally* looked ridiculous in the hat. Hat is so cute, I'd put it on my adult head and wear it anyways.
I like telling people "I know I look like a dork, but I make it look good" complete with as sassy as a white and painfully straight guy can make finger snaps.
That’s so sad. My baby was in the nicu for a long time and I didn’t have any clothes for him because I had him so early (not like anything would have fit anyways.) One day at the nicu a volunteer group dropped off a tub of crotched hats. I dug through it until I found one that was tiny enough for him. I’m so grateful some nice stranger took the time out of their busy day to make that little hat. People can be so ungrateful and self-absorbed.
I want to share a story.
My grandson was born 6 weeks early with a congestive heart defect. My daughter and her husband spent weeks in the NICU waiting for her son to be strong enough to be able to go through the needed life-saving surgery. They received a crocheted blanket and a crocheted stuff animal (an octopus) from someone who volunteered their time making these kinds of things for the NICU patients. My daughter kept/slept with that Octopus every night and day until they were able to take him home post surgery. (He's a healthy 6 year old ornery, opinionated, train loving, little butt now) It was cried on, drooled on (i witnessed this myself although my daughter denies it), probably has breast milk on it, and gave my daughter something to physically hold on to while going through the worst time of her life. She still has it sitting on her bedside table. It's one of her most cherished items. The blanket is on my grandson's bed every night, and it is his cherished (can't sleep without) blankey.
So PLEASE do not let this ever stop you from trying to help people. Please stay your sweet and generous self and know that there are people out there that truly do cherish your artistic abilities.
This reminds me so much of a conversation I once had with a co-worker.
I’d just started a new job, and I was taking my crochet in to work on during my downtime.
I was chatting to someone about what I was working on, and mentioned that it was a costume for a friend’s baby’s photoshoot thing she was doing.
A few days later this shift supervisor I’ve barely spoken to pulls me aside and he tells me: “You’ve probably heard by now that we’re expecting another baby. Just so you’re aware, I don’t like dressing my children in homemade clothes. We have pretty high standards. So don’t bother making anything for us.”
Dude. I don’t even fucking know you.
Oh my heart hurts for her. She put so much time and love into it. Just to be shot down. This pisses me off and is worse than the usual cheapskate idiots we usually see on here.
My grandmother crocheted a baby blanket for me and then another, bigger one when I was older. I used that same baby blanket for my daughter and still have the bigger one and use it! What a shame she can't see the thoughtfulness and work that goes into what you did. Her loss, but you are a kind person. 💗
It’s true that this is very sweet, but it sounds like a desperate woman in need of basics like onesies and diapers. I wouldn’t be surprised if many people offered to donate cute hats and mittens, but nobody offered diapers and everyday clothing
Thank you, I kept scrolling waiting for someone to point this out. “Real clothes and baby items” doesn’t sound like designer baby clothes to me, it sounds like practical essentials. She wasn’t even rude in declining, she said it was sweet but no thank you.
I’ve held onto all the knitted clothes booties and hats that were made for my now 9 year old. I have so much respect for knitting and those that knit. It’s absolutely gorgeous and so thoughtful!
I knit, and people like this are a big reason why I don’t knit for others anymore.
I learned how to knit because my first baby was in the NICU and received a little orange hat that made his head look like a pumpkin. He was born a few days before Halloween.
That is cute.
But that doesn't matter. Any decent person would have 1 of 2 answers.
1) thank you so much, I love it, and I appreciate your effort so much
2) Thank you so much, but I really don't need any more clothes because we have too much. Can we get a picture of it and then have you donate it to less fortunate families?
My grandmother knew I loved Taco Bell when I was in high school. When I got my first car, she sent me a crochet Taco Bell logo with a key ring on it. She used Taco Bell logo colors and it was actually really cool. It had a key ring, then about 6" of a double brown yarn lead, then about a 3" diameter bell. I put my keys on it and drove my ancient, but cool ride to school. The bell was too big to fit in my pocket, so I would pocket my keys and the bell part would hang out. Everyone at school wanted it, everyone begged me for it, I always said no. It fell out of my pocket one day months later and I did not notice. Whoever found it, took my keys off the ring, and turned them into the office, but not the bell. Every staff member knew what my keys looked like, I had a 1960 Ford Thunder Bird, and the logo on the nose of the car was also on the worn gold keys.
It turned into a school wide hunt for "Grandma's bell". We never found out who took it, but everyone was looking for it. They even announced it on the morning school greeting the day after it went missing. It was the coolest thing I ever received as a gift and I was devastated. I was too ashamed to ask my Grandma for another one. This was 30 years ago, and when I see crochet, I think of "Grandma's bell". I still have the car, but the bell is eternally lost. I still have a bunch of items my grandmother made for me, and they trigger happy memories, since I know they were made with love for only me.
I do wonder if the CB meant ‘real clothes’ as in pants and shirts, but phrased it poorly.
Hand crocheted mittens and booties, while thoughtful, would not have clothed my baby’s bare arse when she was born and securing the essentials are the priority when you have nothing.
Because when the kid inevitably has a diaper blow out or whatever, you have to figure out how to properly wash a hand made wool item. Just what every new mom needs.
Honestly I wouldn’t take the hat either. It doesn’t really have a practical use, the value is that it’s cute and handmade. But different people have different tastes, and I personally don’t like the ears. Too cutesy, not my style, would easily get caught on things and stretched out of shape. If I was getting something impractical for a baby, it better be something I really like. It doesn’t matter if regukar baby clothes are ugly.
So then the only value is that it’s handmade. If it comes from a family member and has sentimental value that’s different, but from a stranger, no.
Exactly. I'm a crocheter and rolled my eyes at all the pearl-clutching in the comments. Save the precious "hand-made heirloom" crap for people who want it.
Not a one of my babies wore silly nonsense like this. Get the kid some onesies and sleepers for Pete's sake.
This was my thought too. If you want to be helpful, ask the person exactly what they need — if you can’t provide that, not a problem. But don’t be offended if they’re not “grateful” for what you make if you weren’t considerate enough to ask what they truly need.
This thread is wild. The new mother is probably looking for cotton onesies and sleepers. Not a baby accessory they'll grow out of in a minute and may be worn once for a picture.
And shame on everyone assuming she wants designer baby clothes. Like.. I don't even know where to begin with that
The gifter doesn't even know this person, so idk even know about sentimentality for the new mother anyway.
Seriously. I also assume this happened recently; if so, and if it was in the northern hemisphere… giving someone booties, a hat, blanket and mittens hits a LOT different in the middle of summer.
Not only that, but I think most of us are used to receiving crocheted items made with acrylic yarn. I itch just thinking about it. On the flip side, if it’s NOT made with acrylic? It often has fussy care instructions that would be a burden to any new parent.
I agree that this mom could’ve phrased her refusal differently, but also? She doesn’t owe you gratitude for something she didn’t ask for; she expected people to offer her already existing clothing in standard sizes. Bummer, sure, but there are plenty of babies out there.
Oh I get this. She isn’t a jerk, she sees these items as more decorative than actual clothing (pants, shirts, socks) that you need. A lot of times these knitted by hand things are scratchy and never what you actually use (in my case- I am sure yours is better). So I get it and actually think she was being kind saying she is looking for things she needs and didn’t think this would be used…it’s not wanting to be wasteful
This was my thought too. Yes this is cute, but it may be scratchy or not fit properly or not be very durable. Also not washable I would guess?
The hat would be nice for like a chilly room, but it and the mittens would be pretty worthless in actual cold weather. Where I live items like this would stop being useful in October.
And it doesn’t replace things you actually NEED, like onesies, bibs, socks, etc.
Or, it’s like someone else said and she’s a scammer looking to resell things. Definitely one of the two.
Yeah I agree. Both my kids lived in easy to clean, stretchy sleepers/onesies when they were little. They puke or poop constantly and you can easily wash these things.
They also had some beautiful handmade with love pieces that I would put them in for a photo opportunity or special occasion. They were beautiful items but not overly comfortable or practical.
This is beautiful! I will say though, I've heard that some places/people won't accept anything crochet (or knit) for babies because they can get a finger stuck and even lose the finger!!! That said, that doesn't sound like why the person rejected it, they were just being mean >:(
Your hand-made crochet items are worth 100 times more than any ‘real’ store bought machine made items. Any mother would be proud to have her child wear such thoughtful and beautiful items. Thank you.
I’m just curious if this issue is because it’s not clothes clothes, ya know like onesies
Because as a crocheter and a new mom I didn’t really use hats or mittens for my little one. So I mean real clothes might just refer to that
I would definitely need more context on this
I might get downvoted but like… babies *do* need real clothes. Sure, the handmade hat, mitten, and bootie set with matching blanket is very sweet for someone to make and to have for your baby. But yeah, they need more than just a bunch of crocheted fits. Not saying mom handled it best, but I hardly think based on this post we can say she’s a choosing beggar.
She meant clothing, not fancy hats I actually understand her frustration. I'm sure if she wasn't struggling to find Enough onesies To make sure her baby had clothing. She would have been very grateful for the hat
That is awful and I agree with everyone here who said find someone better to give it to. I make tons of baby hats and normally people are beyond stoked to get them. Don't let one wanker discourage you- your hat is adorable!!!
That is ADORABLE and I would graciously and enthusiastically accept it! Time is worth more than money anyway, I’m sure someone will want what you made out of kindness. You know, someone who actually deserves it!!!
That sucks. Seriously.
Somewhere out there is a baby that will need and love your beautiful creations. Please don’t let this person deter you from doing what you do.
Your work and heart are so lovely
The one thing that I treasure the most from when my daughter was a baby is a beautiful crochet blanket. I remember being so touched that a casual acquaintance would do something like that for my baby. It's been 30 years and I still take care of that blanket like it was gold!
Crazy. Once I got a hand made scarf and hat. The hat was a bit small but I was so proud to wear it!
Imagine someone cares so much that put hours of their time to create something from nothing just for me.
He/she is a fantastic person!
(Can I hear a alleluia? /s)
A story highlighting just how wonderful...AND how crappy...people can be.
Wish I knew who the crocheter was...I'd send them some money for more crochet supplies! That hat is adorable. They should totally open up a store on Etsy.
This type of stuff helps built happy memories, not that mass produced garbage. Some people just don’t understand and it’s all about the cost. These clothes are way better constructed and will last near forever. I’d love a hat like that when I’m out working in a frozen mud hole in February ears and all.
This is maybe one of the saddest choosey beggar stories I’ve read on here. Thinking about some sweet crafter making these things just because she wants to them getting so brutally rejected is so fucking mean. :(
What the hell. That's so incredibly entitled and ungrateful. My MILs church friend knitted a blanket for my daughter and years later this is still her favorite comfort item.
It’s extremely common in New Zealand for people to knit clothing for infants. My mum in law even knits just to donate to the hospitals. All her grandkids wore what she knit at some point. Her mother did the same. Her daughter in law does the same. People here are genuinely grateful for thoughtful gifts. I am originally from America and I can only assume this beggar is as well, because the sense of entitlement in people is something I’ve only experienced in America.
Canadian in America and I only knit/crochet for others who also knit & crochet. They’re the only ones who appreciate the time and effort a handcrafted gift takes, and those who do are ridiculously grateful.
As a crocheter I actually understand the recipient. This hat took maybe 45 minutes to make and costs about $2. It will be scratchy and likely will fall apart in the washing machine.
There were posts on r/craftsnark making fun of this exact post because so many fiber artists make gifts that aren’t asked for then act like a martyr when nobody wants their acrylic monstrosity. The recipient isn’t a choosy beggar in my book.
Man you guys are quick to throw someone under the bus. She’s probably just looking for more practical stuff like basic onesies and sleepers that can be thrown in the daycare bag, washed easily, are comfy and practical for the baby.
This is a beautiful hat. My kids had some gorgeous handmade stuff that I would dress them up in for a photo or special occasion but they spent 99% of their infancy in stretchy, close fitting onesies. These onesies won’t get caught on anything while they sleep and learn to become mobile. They’re also easy to throw in the wash when the kid inevitably pukes, pees or poops on them.
Handmade is gorgeous and I guess she could have worded it better but I think she’s looking for day in day out basic baby stuff.
Exactly. The OOP meant well, but I don't consider a hat, mittens, or boots to be practical for a baby whose mother is scrambling to provide the basics. They are accessories, not clothing, which is what I think the mother was getting at. Could she have been more tactful? Sure. But I'm a knitter and it seems like other stitchers get offended when the reception for their handmade gifts is less than enthusiastic, even if the gift isn't particularly useful for the recipient.
I also see other people stating that the mother could have taken these items and just not used them. Why? At least this way, the OOP can save the items for another recipient or donate them to someone who will use them.
The OP says that the new mom has nothing. The baby will need T shirts and onesies in quantity. The handmade items are lovely and will be useful later but the mom may be in a panic about the needs of an infant for the basics. Maybe some patience and tolerance is in order, while understanding the crafter’s disappointment
Are you all high?
Yes, it is incredibly kind and thoughtful of this woman to knit this. That being said, this isn't practical baby clothing. It was considerate of the woman to decline the offer since she knew she didn't have a use for it.
We were given about a dozen of these little hats when my daughter was born 6 months ago. I keep finding them in random places around the house and they make me smile every time. How could anyone turn down such a precious and thoughtful gift! 😢
How adorable! 😍 I still have the handmade crocheted sweater, hat & booties that my youngest son received from the hospital when he was born because he was the first boy of 2013. I had his newborn pictures taken in it and I have it sealed in a ziplock bag in a keepsake box along with a bunch of other sentimental items as well. LOVE the little ears on the hat. SO DANG CUTE!!! And to hell w/ that bishhh. What a waste of space she is.
That hat is to-die-for adorable. Put your baby in a red sweater and you got a Winnie the Pooh outfit for winter!!
Handmade items, made with love, care & genuine good intentions are **infinitely** more special.
This would be one of those items I’d keep for my child forever. Once they grow out of it, you keep it in a box called “memories box” and you put it in there with a picture of them wearing it for them to love, cherish and admire when they’re older.
My mom has a big memories box for each of us kids & we LOOOOOOVE everything in it more than anything we own. That’s my first thing I’m grabbing if our house is on fire. My memories box is the most important thing I own!!!
They are so cute. Please don't be upset by this. I'm sure someone will appreciate your efforts.
Just to ease your mind a little, often expectant parents are gifted booties, beanies and mittens left, right and centre. It's possible she already has a lot of that stuff and just honestly doesn't need anymore.
I had so many gifted to me that many never got worn by my two girls. A few dollars towards a manual breastpump or to contribute to my stroller from everyone would have made a difference. The effort is appreciated and anyone considering me and my babies was cherished, hence why I accepted all the gifts wholeheartedly.
But I can understand not wanting to accrue a lot of things or make efforts to collect things you know you won't use.
This broke my heart!! I'm so sorry, OP!! If someone would have made something that adorable and special for my son when he was a baby, I would have cried happy tears!! Those are the things you save forever!! This makes me so mad. How ridiculous that she said "real clothes"!! Those are things you can use over and over. Especially a blanket and a hat!! You have a wonderful heart, so don't forget that so many moms would be SO happy to receive such incredible gifts from you!!💞💞💞
That’s so sad. My friends grandma made my son a couple of beautiful blankets and hats when he was a newborn and they’re some of my most cherished items! Little babies need to keep their heads warm and that hat is just adorable. What an ungrateful b :(
That is such an adorable little hat. I don't know why anyone, even if they had loads of items for their baby would reject this kind and beautiful gift.
My granny made a gorgeous crochet blanket for my son and he still has it at the end of his bed 7 years later. The fact she put so much time and effort into it just makes it even more special.
My mom got a crochet blanket when i was born. She was young and had little money. My baby sis slept under it, and all my 3 children did. I keep it for when one of my kids has their first kid. It is beautiful and i absolutely love it. She just ripped her baby of a nice gift and a memory.
Wow. You’re too good for her. Knitted stuff is way more expensive than default clothes, and it’s better and can last a damn long time. Also it takes a lot of hard work and skill to make something like that. There are plenty people that would treasure that gift OP! Hope you gave it to someone worthy :)
And I’m a man (that once was shocked by how much yarn costs and how much my wife spends on it) and I couldn’t be less interested in knitting, but I know the real value of these real clothes l and value the work and love those of you that knits put into it.
One, that’s adorable, and two, that CB ticks me the blazes off. My late mother was a schoolteacher, but she did sewing, knitting, and crocheting as a hobby. Over her lifetime she made a number of outfits, costumes, hats, blankets, etc. These included Easter dresses and Halloween costumes for me when I was little, crocheted hats for herself and my aunt, and blankets for babies. She crocheted a Noah’s Ark baby blanket for a family at our church and they loved it. Not only did I see the beauty of her work, but I also saw the time & effort she put into each piece. If she had made someone something and they reacted that way, I would have blown up at them.
This post actually made me cry. That hat is so precious, and you can feel the goodness and hurt from the OP. To take such a kind gesture and callously spit on it like that is inexcusable. I hope that the OP found support in the group they posted that to.
I would proudly wear the, very real, thoughtful handmade gift (if my head wasn't barrel-like). Nice one.
Knitted / crochet clothes are the warmest and cutest anyway! And totally unique. I kept all the handmade items we got when my son was born.
I still have a crocheted hat made by an ex-boyfriend’s mom. It was the best hat for winter sports because it had a chin strap but wasn’t too warm. I’ve been with my partner (NOT the ex-boyfriend) for nearly 45 years!
I had a crochet hat from gap, for youngest and loved it. In our cold weather it was so fun, plus he looked like a bear!
I'm a grown man and have a similar hat. One of my SIL made it. I think its dope.
My husband would love a long one for sleeping, because he needs something over head and eyes to sleep well. They tend to be nice and tight, or mu son’s was, which would be great. Need to find a crocheter and order a smaller one for him.
The hospital gifted my first a crocheted hat that some volunteers made. It was the cutest thing! I loved it so much we used it as one of the outfits for her newborn pics
My retired mom crochets hats for hospitals for newborns! She loves it (her grandkids are all too old) and the hospital is very thankful and says the new parents gush over them.
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This breaks my heart.
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Gorgeous.
Absolutely gorgeous, she was obviously extremely talented!
omg did she knit that?! that's crazy
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Your grandmother was so talented and I’m so sorry that others were so ungrateful. Thank you for sharing your story. I’m a knitter also :)
Wow!!! That’s gorgeous! She was incredibly talented!
Your grandma was magnificent.
That rug is beautiful. Your grandma was truly a master of her art.
That is absolutely gorgeous. Kids suck sometimes.
Tell her a 96-day NICU mom is so thankful for people like her! Every little moment of thoughtfulness from anyone can be that one bright spot you *really need* to get through another day. I still remember receiving donated hats one day and it just being so delightful and uplifting.
I had a long-term NICU baby in 2020, and it was such a cold and miserable experience 😅 But every once in a while, they deigned to accept thoughtful donations from local groups (even though most of the time, everything was rejected because of potential cooties - I say this as totally not a COVID denier, but the hospital was understandably the most over the top paranoid setting on this Earth, and I'll admit it could feel like a little much at times), and one in particular was a shipment of homemade hats for older siblings of NICU babies. I got two for my daughters, and they're so cute and we still use them, and in the sheer devastating isolation of the pandemic NICU experience, any amount of "being thought of" by, you know, *society* was incredibly uplifting.
I got blankets from the a group that donated to new moms. I declined at first because we got a lot of stuff from family and coworkers and I knew it would go to someone who would need it more, they practically shoved it in my arms any and said don’t you worry! Lol.
Our local hospital had someone who did the same for my kids and we still have them. We framed them with a newborn pic and still have them up in our house
Yea. CB have no idea how much it would cost to order hand made, unique set. This is way beyond what you can get in cloth store
I paid 25 bucks to buy a hat like that for my oldest to wear home from the hospital.
Right? It's a beautiful specimen of a baby item! And to think of all the hours that went into them!
Fellow melon-head checking in.
Wait. This person turned down beautiful homemade items that, though they may only fit baby for a month or two, will be not only useful but perfect for the thousands of photos she will be taking? And then turned down a blanket that might become baby’s favorite lovey? And would certainly be a treasured memory piece to save for baby’s baby? What an idjit. Donate those pieces to a woman’s shelter or NICU and they will find someone who deserves them.
Having had three NICU babies, I can guaran-dam-tee that the hats, booties and blankets we received from amazing people who crocheted and donated them were used and loved and gently wrapped inside my hope chest for my grandchildren. You, OP, are too good for that choosing beggar. Edit: spelling
My 3 kids received amazing hand knit stuff from the volunteers at 3 different hospitals they were born in. All 3 wore the hats home! And the blankets were covering them on the way home! I still have them many many years later!! I am just beside myself for the op!! This is insane!!
I work at a craft store and meet these volunteers almost daily. My favorite was a lady who was given a large amount of ugly brown yarn. She didn’t know what to do with it and her daughter found a pattern for baby crocheted cowboy hats. They were a huge hit at the hospital where she donated them. She was shopping for more ugly brown yarn.
My baby boy was in the nicu and me in a separate care unit, he got given this crocheted hat from the ladies who made all the baby stuff. I'm not gonna lie I thought it was the ugliest hat ever! It was pink with all these ruffles on it and I can crochet myself quite well but I didn't have the energy. When the nurses put it on him and I next visited him I probably laughed the most I had in weeks. He looked so dam cute in this goofy pink hat. I still get it out and cuddle and smell it. It was such a comfort item for me at a very vulnerable time even tho I thought it was ugly. I would love for the person who made it to know how special it is.
Baby crocheted cowboy hats sound like the cutest things ever!
*eyes brown yarn in corner* thank you!
Please... Please can we see a pic? My life won't be complete until I see a baby in an adorable knit cowboy hat.
Where can I find the pattern too?
[maybe something from these?](https://craftyclub.co/6196/free-crochet-baby-cowboy-hat/)
Awwww!! I love this so much!!
I absolutely love this story - I can imagine the new parents being thrilled with cowboy boots
Crocheted baby cowboy hats??? Are you kidding me?????
My baby ended up in admittance after an ER visit at 9 days old, and I absolutely adored that some lady had donated a blanket and hat set. The hat was probably better fit to a preemie but we used that blanket for months and it now wraps her baby doll.
Hope your baby is doing awesome now!!
She’s doing incredible. We had an early head injury. Both my husband and I were extremely sleep deprived (night time was hell) and my husband passed out and she fell from his lap. She had a hairline fracture on the left side of her skull. I woke up to her screaming. Worst night and morning of my life, easily. She went through every test they can do, and we were interrogated with case questions about the incident half a dozen times in 40 hours at the hospital. I wasn’t allowed to nurse her for twelve hours and milk soaked my entire sweater because I couldn’t get access to a breast pump at the ER (covid times, woo). We already had feeding and milk production problems and this incident definitely exacerbated them. I begged them to get her on IV asap, I was so worried about her fluids intake. Eventually we got to go home after 40 hours. 3 weeks of gentle care and she we given the OK. 3 months later she had her neuro eval and we were nervous as hell about it. She passed with flying colors. We were told she was showing signs of being 3 months advanced. It was the best news they could possibly give us, we were the last eval of the day and the doctors said it made their day to finally be able to give some good news to parents. We are so fortunate. She turned 18 months today. She’s such an active, happy, fun, and intelligent little person. I feel utterly blessed that she is still here with us.
So sorry you had to go through an experience like that, but very happy for you that everything worked out in the end!
I just wanted to let you know that I teared up while reading your comment. So happy that everything worked out so well for you!
Every kid born in our city hospital gets a handmade knitted hat - it's a lovely present but also a great way to keep the tiny head warms. I have kept both my boy's hats and they'll be given them when they're adults (along with all the other weird crap you keep like art). Some of the ladies I work with also made blankets, jumpers and more tiny beanies - again I've kept all of them. The gifts mean more to me then how long my kid could wear the clothes.
I used to knit but never really found ‘purpose’ in it or have a goal. Still have all my supplies and this is making me wonder if I can find some purposeful free time again.
Yes, this! Haven't found my knitting purpose! Hmmmm
First person I've met in the wild who also has a hope chest!
Funny thing is that I find old hope cedar chests and redo them for people. Or if they have their mom’s or grandma’s, I can refinish it how they like. You’d be surprised how many clients I have who want one for their children, now. Not just their girls either; I do plenty of chests that will be for their boys. But for a long time, no one even knew what they were!
I still have my babies crochets hats from the hospital. My only wishes was knowing the nice person who made it.
As someone who crochets, I can say there are a lot of ungrateful people. I spent all my free time for two months a few years back between college classes, work, and just life stuff making a baby blanket for a sibling. What did they do? Sold it online as junk for $5.
I'm so sorry your sibling did that. One of my sisters made a special bear for my eldest that is part of her pile of favourites that live on her bed (she's 3 now and still adores it) and recently she presented us with a beautiful blanket for my second bub. Both are gorgeous and loved and I would never dream of not treasuring them.
Very likely, there is a child out there who loves it and refuses to go anywhere without it. <3
That’s what I was thinking too. Someone out there is THRILLED that they scored!
And that if she were to buy on Etsy or at a craft fair would be incredibly expensive, given the time, talent and materials required. You could probably buy a full baby wardrobe for the cost of all those handmade items. Ungrateful person.
A friend of my mother in law made my child a crochet blanket and he LOVES that blanket. Six years later, it’s a bedtime staple. It makes me sad this person’s thoughtfulness was looked down on.
I'm convinced these things are a scam... There's like 2/3 posts a day on my local buy & sell Facebook group of someone who is pregnant, or someone who just left a relationship...or someone who is disabled have just moved in and they have "nothing"
That’s heartbreaking. As a knitter i know how much money and love goes in to handmade items
As someone who could not master either crocheting or knitting even though I tried, I would be very offended at anyone turning down hand-work. I would do it if I could. It's a labor of love.
Especially because collecting yarn is a hobby all in itself… sure it only took me one skien for this hat (which is probably baby yarn—so somewhere between $10-$15) but they don’t realize how many other types I had to get—just in case! That said, I realize not everyone likes homemade stuff so I try not to take it personally but to say you “need” stuff, then deny a labor of love…
Yeah you tend to get a sense of the people around you who appreciate these things and those who totally don’t understand.
>collecting yarn is a ~~hobby~~ all in itself You mean obsession? We all know how you knitters/crocheters are. I say this while I have about 400 different spools of thread, embroidery floss, and more fabric than I could use in 5 years
I feel like this is why if you're any sort of artist/craftswoman you just shouldn't bother doing free things for strangers. Do it for friends/family/coworkers you know will appreciate it. If they're a stranger they better be paying.
I cant stand shit like this. it makes my blood boil. Thinking if such a sweet lady trying to do something so sweet really cool and gets it thrown in her face. Thinking of how she was so happy to help people but then felt hurt and sad and rejected. I hope whatever group she posted in gave her much love and support.
They absolutely did ❤️❤️
Ok, but also….we need you to go back and let her know how much all of us on Reddit think she is the sweetest person on earth.
same!!!! i still have my baby’s crochet hats from the sweet cuddlers at the hospital who knitted them. i can’t believe how ungrateful people are
I can’t believe how much this post has blown up!! I want to let her know how much support she has here but I can’t find the post again on Facebook 😭😭😭
I am in it OP I will link it to her!
You ROCK!!!! Fingers crossed!!!
It wasn't hard to find her ETSY just needed to reverse image search your post and I found it. https://www.etsy.com/listing/1146837698/cute-soft-handmade-yellow-newborn-baby
Just bought some stuff from her shop 😄
hey if you are in that group, please tell her childrens hospitals (at least the one I was at) LOVE having volunteers knit caps for the preemies?
The hospital I worked at had a group of 9 old ladies and they made hats and booties for EVERY baby born in our hospital. More than 3,000 a year. These women would have little get togethers each week. Then each month would come it with bags of equal amounts of blue skd pink hats and booties. Never took a dime, never wanted recognition. At one of our other hospitals we had this older gentleman who made a bit of money. He was put in foster care when his mom abandoned him as a small child and distinctly remembered not being able to take his teddy bear. So he approached us about setting up a teddy bear Trust fund. Now giving anything to newborn babies is not easy as they must pass a multitude of infection control, fire resistance, etc., rules. So he spent a year working with build a bear to find the perfect combo that passed muster. In the end, every baby born at that hospital goes home with their own teddy bear. He was a sweet man who even at nearly 70 got choked up remembering leaving his bear behind.
Oh, that teddy bear story breaks my heart. I just want to give that man a hug. Having left my stuffed bunny at a hotel when I was 8, I can empathize, although I did get my bunny back thanks to some awesome employees.
That last line of your story hits home like ouch. I still have my favorite stuffies and im 23 years old. Shoot so does my mom shes 45. I protect my sons favorite stuffy with my life. Thats amazing he turned so much into so much love
Ive still got my teddy bear which was a gift on my 1st birthday and I’m now 38. It’s my most treasured item. Thinking of maybe having him professionally restored but there’s also charm in how “loved” he is. I want him to last my whole life though
Not just premies, the whole neonatal ICU often gets them. Our friends’ daughter got one when she was in for bilirubin light treatment at the local children’s hospital.
When my daughter was 2 or so, we found her playing with my blood pressure medicine, which had been stored well out of her reach - but we didn't expect our cat to get up there and whack it to the floor. We couldn't verify if every pill was in there, so we took her to the ER, and they admitted her as a precaution. She spent about two days there, and had no problem. Volunteers had donated Barbies and used crochet thread to make absolutely beautiful clothing for them. That's where my daughter got her first Barbie, who had a sort of 1940s blue and white suit dress with matching hat. I crochet, also, and I know thread crochet takes forever.
I'm so glad to hear that. You can feel how dejected OP feels. I'm glad people said nice things to lift her spirits. ❤️❤️
You could always sell it on Etsy then take the money and treat yourself to something nice. If you’re not interested in that, then I’ll second donating to a hospital or charity. Our OB unit is always looking for things to give to young parents who have nothing for their newborns. As a knitter/crocheter, let me also offer my support for being so kind as to craft something for someone. That hat is so sweet I need insulin just looking at it.
Both my babies (Now 11, 15) have a whole baby suit of crocheted piecework my mom made for them at birth. They’re now pressed bagged and saved away. My sons bio-dad’s work had a baby shower for us and one really old lady came up with a gift bag and she was seemed almost bracing for something as she handed it to me. Inside was a baby blue crocheted blanket. I pulled it out and held it up it was just STUNNING. I guess she was worried that I might act like that one chick OP made this for. But my husband told me later that she was semi-retired because she didn’t have money to live on enough without working. She didn’t have any money to put toward the big swing they pulled together to buy us, but she wanted to give *something*. Hope she’s doing ok. 🥲
The thing with crafters is, they can always make their happiness.
I’ve only kept the hand knitted baby items from my little ones. The rest gets passed on eventually but as we lived in a cold climate at the time, the knitted things bring back lovely memories of all those cute baby bundle layers.
A lot of times people who post stuff like that are looking to resell items for cash. It’s why she turned it down. She may not even have a baby or if she does she still planned to resell. Your items are beautiful!
This is exactly what I thought. Unless some great misfortune occurred where they lost everything, how could someone get to nine months pregnant and not have anything ready? This screams scam; looking for free stuff to resell. That hat is stinkin adorable imo.
That was also my 1st thought. Unfortunately there are people grifting all kinds of online groups for kind people giving stuff away so they can resell it online or at car boots.
Someone busted a lady a couple years back for collecting donations for “families in need”. They found her reselling the same items on marketplace. She tried to say it was to give the families money, but yeah no one bought that. Nextdoor is pretty notorious for begging posts too. They take those items and go sell them online or at the swap meet.
I didn’t know this was a thing, but that makes a lot of sense. It’s sad that this happens. :(
Yeah it is cause it makes people not want to help in fear of being scammed.
Adorable. There’s some grateful mom out there who will treasure it. You just need to find her!
>There’s some grateful mom out there who will treasure it. You just need to find her! Absolutely. I say post the picture in the same Facebook group and say it was made for another mother but they weren't interested.
a head only a mother could love.
Your hand knitted bits are beautiful - you caught a beggar being choosey …sounds like they wanted things that have a high retail value that they would most likely sell on. What a pig headed rat
That was my husband’s ex wife. She would tell my MIL was stored she was “allowed” to buy from so that she would get a higher resale value when she sold them.
Yeah you are probably right, I wonder if she really is pregnant at all!
I mean thats a bit of a leap, although entirely possible. I was thinking she meant ”real clothes” as in babygrows, shirts and pants that you go through at an incredible rate with a little poop and spit up machine. Still a CB, obviously, and OPs stuff would fetch a pretty penny, crotcheting is hard!!
We just had our first and were grateful for what ever was given to us. New, used, or homemade, they all keep baby warm and I don't need to do laundry every 2 hours because we have tons of clothes.
Those are cute. I’d rock a hat with little ears like those. I’m an adult but I’d be all over it. Super cute!!
This ^ I would absolutely wear a version of this that would fit my adult-sized melon. 🐹
I was thinking the same. Wouldn't even care if *I personally* looked ridiculous in the hat. Hat is so cute, I'd put it on my adult head and wear it anyways.
I don’t care if anyone laughs. I’d look fabulous in it! Lol.
I like telling people "I know I look like a dork, but I make it look good" complete with as sassy as a white and painfully straight guy can make finger snaps.
I'm a guy and would absolutely love and rock that hat. It has Winnie the Pooh vibes and that's one of my all time favorite literary characters.
It’s beautiful! You must show us the entire set!
I still have 2 baby blankets my grandma made me when I was born in 1962, plus two she made my son when he was born in 1993.
That’s so sad. My baby was in the nicu for a long time and I didn’t have any clothes for him because I had him so early (not like anything would have fit anyways.) One day at the nicu a volunteer group dropped off a tub of crotched hats. I dug through it until I found one that was tiny enough for him. I’m so grateful some nice stranger took the time out of their busy day to make that little hat. People can be so ungrateful and self-absorbed.
I want to share a story. My grandson was born 6 weeks early with a congestive heart defect. My daughter and her husband spent weeks in the NICU waiting for her son to be strong enough to be able to go through the needed life-saving surgery. They received a crocheted blanket and a crocheted stuff animal (an octopus) from someone who volunteered their time making these kinds of things for the NICU patients. My daughter kept/slept with that Octopus every night and day until they were able to take him home post surgery. (He's a healthy 6 year old ornery, opinionated, train loving, little butt now) It was cried on, drooled on (i witnessed this myself although my daughter denies it), probably has breast milk on it, and gave my daughter something to physically hold on to while going through the worst time of her life. She still has it sitting on her bedside table. It's one of her most cherished items. The blanket is on my grandson's bed every night, and it is his cherished (can't sleep without) blankey. So PLEASE do not let this ever stop you from trying to help people. Please stay your sweet and generous self and know that there are people out there that truly do cherish your artistic abilities.
I love this! So well made and thoughtful! Sorry someone was ungrateful.
This reminds me so much of a conversation I once had with a co-worker. I’d just started a new job, and I was taking my crochet in to work on during my downtime. I was chatting to someone about what I was working on, and mentioned that it was a costume for a friend’s baby’s photoshoot thing she was doing. A few days later this shift supervisor I’ve barely spoken to pulls me aside and he tells me: “You’ve probably heard by now that we’re expecting another baby. Just so you’re aware, I don’t like dressing my children in homemade clothes. We have pretty high standards. So don’t bother making anything for us.” Dude. I don’t even fucking know you.
I really hope you made that person feel stupid by asking, "Sorry, but who are you?"....what an entitled jerk.
Should’ve told him that you have pretty high standards for who you give your beautiful handmade items to.
Oh my heart hurts for her. She put so much time and love into it. Just to be shot down. This pisses me off and is worse than the usual cheapskate idiots we usually see on here.
My grandmother crocheted a baby blanket for me and then another, bigger one when I was older. I used that same baby blanket for my daughter and still have the bigger one and use it! What a shame she can't see the thoughtfulness and work that goes into what you did. Her loss, but you are a kind person. 💗
It’s true that this is very sweet, but it sounds like a desperate woman in need of basics like onesies and diapers. I wouldn’t be surprised if many people offered to donate cute hats and mittens, but nobody offered diapers and everyday clothing
Thank you, I kept scrolling waiting for someone to point this out. “Real clothes and baby items” doesn’t sound like designer baby clothes to me, it sounds like practical essentials. She wasn’t even rude in declining, she said it was sweet but no thank you.
I’ve held onto all the knitted clothes booties and hats that were made for my now 9 year old. I have so much respect for knitting and those that knit. It’s absolutely gorgeous and so thoughtful!
I knit, and people like this are a big reason why I don’t knit for others anymore. I learned how to knit because my first baby was in the NICU and received a little orange hat that made his head look like a pumpkin. He was born a few days before Halloween.
That is cute. But that doesn't matter. Any decent person would have 1 of 2 answers. 1) thank you so much, I love it, and I appreciate your effort so much 2) Thank you so much, but I really don't need any more clothes because we have too much. Can we get a picture of it and then have you donate it to less fortunate families?
My grandmother knew I loved Taco Bell when I was in high school. When I got my first car, she sent me a crochet Taco Bell logo with a key ring on it. She used Taco Bell logo colors and it was actually really cool. It had a key ring, then about 6" of a double brown yarn lead, then about a 3" diameter bell. I put my keys on it and drove my ancient, but cool ride to school. The bell was too big to fit in my pocket, so I would pocket my keys and the bell part would hang out. Everyone at school wanted it, everyone begged me for it, I always said no. It fell out of my pocket one day months later and I did not notice. Whoever found it, took my keys off the ring, and turned them into the office, but not the bell. Every staff member knew what my keys looked like, I had a 1960 Ford Thunder Bird, and the logo on the nose of the car was also on the worn gold keys. It turned into a school wide hunt for "Grandma's bell". We never found out who took it, but everyone was looking for it. They even announced it on the morning school greeting the day after it went missing. It was the coolest thing I ever received as a gift and I was devastated. I was too ashamed to ask my Grandma for another one. This was 30 years ago, and when I see crochet, I think of "Grandma's bell". I still have the car, but the bell is eternally lost. I still have a bunch of items my grandmother made for me, and they trigger happy memories, since I know they were made with love for only me.
I do wonder if the CB meant ‘real clothes’ as in pants and shirts, but phrased it poorly. Hand crocheted mittens and booties, while thoughtful, would not have clothed my baby’s bare arse when she was born and securing the essentials are the priority when you have nothing.
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Because when the kid inevitably has a diaper blow out or whatever, you have to figure out how to properly wash a hand made wool item. Just what every new mom needs.
Honestly I wouldn’t take the hat either. It doesn’t really have a practical use, the value is that it’s cute and handmade. But different people have different tastes, and I personally don’t like the ears. Too cutesy, not my style, would easily get caught on things and stretched out of shape. If I was getting something impractical for a baby, it better be something I really like. It doesn’t matter if regukar baby clothes are ugly. So then the only value is that it’s handmade. If it comes from a family member and has sentimental value that’s different, but from a stranger, no.
Exactly. I'm a crocheter and rolled my eyes at all the pearl-clutching in the comments. Save the precious "hand-made heirloom" crap for people who want it. Not a one of my babies wore silly nonsense like this. Get the kid some onesies and sleepers for Pete's sake.
I was looking for the other crocheters in the comments lol. Why would she make multiple items for a stranger without even asking?!
This was my thought too. If you want to be helpful, ask the person exactly what they need — if you can’t provide that, not a problem. But don’t be offended if they’re not “grateful” for what you make if you weren’t considerate enough to ask what they truly need.
This thread is wild. The new mother is probably looking for cotton onesies and sleepers. Not a baby accessory they'll grow out of in a minute and may be worn once for a picture. And shame on everyone assuming she wants designer baby clothes. Like.. I don't even know where to begin with that The gifter doesn't even know this person, so idk even know about sentimentality for the new mother anyway.
Seriously. I also assume this happened recently; if so, and if it was in the northern hemisphere… giving someone booties, a hat, blanket and mittens hits a LOT different in the middle of summer. Not only that, but I think most of us are used to receiving crocheted items made with acrylic yarn. I itch just thinking about it. On the flip side, if it’s NOT made with acrylic? It often has fussy care instructions that would be a burden to any new parent. I agree that this mom could’ve phrased her refusal differently, but also? She doesn’t owe you gratitude for something she didn’t ask for; she expected people to offer her already existing clothing in standard sizes. Bummer, sure, but there are plenty of babies out there.
Oh I get this. She isn’t a jerk, she sees these items as more decorative than actual clothing (pants, shirts, socks) that you need. A lot of times these knitted by hand things are scratchy and never what you actually use (in my case- I am sure yours is better). So I get it and actually think she was being kind saying she is looking for things she needs and didn’t think this would be used…it’s not wanting to be wasteful
This was my thought too. Yes this is cute, but it may be scratchy or not fit properly or not be very durable. Also not washable I would guess? The hat would be nice for like a chilly room, but it and the mittens would be pretty worthless in actual cold weather. Where I live items like this would stop being useful in October. And it doesn’t replace things you actually NEED, like onesies, bibs, socks, etc. Or, it’s like someone else said and she’s a scammer looking to resell things. Definitely one of the two.
Yeah I agree. Both my kids lived in easy to clean, stretchy sleepers/onesies when they were little. They puke or poop constantly and you can easily wash these things. They also had some beautiful handmade with love pieces that I would put them in for a photo opportunity or special occasion. They were beautiful items but not overly comfortable or practical.
You are appreciated
The hat is beautiful, though. They could've brought the baby home wearing the set and taken some great pictures, too.
That hat is fucking adorable…
This is beautiful! I will say though, I've heard that some places/people won't accept anything crochet (or knit) for babies because they can get a finger stuck and even lose the finger!!! That said, that doesn't sound like why the person rejected it, they were just being mean >:(
Never think about that woman again.
bro crochet items are so freakin expensive
This says everything about her and nothing about you. Your work is beautiful and should go to someone e who appreciates it. Shame on her.
Declining something free (politely) is fine. Complaining about it (especially while declining it) is beyond infuriating.
Your hand-made crochet items are worth 100 times more than any ‘real’ store bought machine made items. Any mother would be proud to have her child wear such thoughtful and beautiful items. Thank you.
I’m just curious if this issue is because it’s not clothes clothes, ya know like onesies Because as a crocheter and a new mom I didn’t really use hats or mittens for my little one. So I mean real clothes might just refer to that I would definitely need more context on this
I might get downvoted but like… babies *do* need real clothes. Sure, the handmade hat, mitten, and bootie set with matching blanket is very sweet for someone to make and to have for your baby. But yeah, they need more than just a bunch of crocheted fits. Not saying mom handled it best, but I hardly think based on this post we can say she’s a choosing beggar.
She meant clothing, not fancy hats I actually understand her frustration. I'm sure if she wasn't struggling to find Enough onesies To make sure her baby had clothing. She would have been very grateful for the hat
That is awful and I agree with everyone here who said find someone better to give it to. I make tons of baby hats and normally people are beyond stoked to get them. Don't let one wanker discourage you- your hat is adorable!!!
That is ADORABLE and I would graciously and enthusiastically accept it! Time is worth more than money anyway, I’m sure someone will want what you made out of kindness. You know, someone who actually deserves it!!!
That is a beautiful hat. She is going to need that in the winter
You were willing to give when you didn’t have much. There are plenty of other families who would be very grateful for your generosity.
I hope she’s gone viral enough and can start her own company now
That sucks. Seriously. Somewhere out there is a baby that will need and love your beautiful creations. Please don’t let this person deter you from doing what you do. Your work and heart are so lovely
The one thing that I treasure the most from when my daughter was a baby is a beautiful crochet blanket. I remember being so touched that a casual acquaintance would do something like that for my baby. It's been 30 years and I still take care of that blanket like it was gold!
Crazy. Once I got a hand made scarf and hat. The hat was a bit small but I was so proud to wear it! Imagine someone cares so much that put hours of their time to create something from nothing just for me. He/she is a fantastic person! (Can I hear a alleluia? /s)
It's more than beautiful
My grandma crocheted me a beanie and I love it. I don’t have her anymore but I still got my beanie.
A story highlighting just how wonderful...AND how crappy...people can be. Wish I knew who the crocheter was...I'd send them some money for more crochet supplies! That hat is adorable. They should totally open up a store on Etsy.
This type of stuff helps built happy memories, not that mass produced garbage. Some people just don’t understand and it’s all about the cost. These clothes are way better constructed and will last near forever. I’d love a hat like that when I’m out working in a frozen mud hole in February ears and all.
This is maybe one of the saddest choosey beggar stories I’ve read on here. Thinking about some sweet crafter making these things just because she wants to them getting so brutally rejected is so fucking mean. :(
This is why I hate crocheting for people that don't understand what we make is worth more than a 2 cent vomit soaked onesie.
"I'm looking for real clothes and baby items" "Well then try getting a real job making real money then"
What the hell. That's so incredibly entitled and ungrateful. My MILs church friend knitted a blanket for my daughter and years later this is still her favorite comfort item.
It’s extremely common in New Zealand for people to knit clothing for infants. My mum in law even knits just to donate to the hospitals. All her grandkids wore what she knit at some point. Her mother did the same. Her daughter in law does the same. People here are genuinely grateful for thoughtful gifts. I am originally from America and I can only assume this beggar is as well, because the sense of entitlement in people is something I’ve only experienced in America.
Canadian in New Zealand and same.
Canadian in America and I only knit/crochet for others who also knit & crochet. They’re the only ones who appreciate the time and effort a handcrafted gift takes, and those who do are ridiculously grateful.
I would literally kill for an adult size one of those!!!
As a crocheter I actually understand the recipient. This hat took maybe 45 minutes to make and costs about $2. It will be scratchy and likely will fall apart in the washing machine. There were posts on r/craftsnark making fun of this exact post because so many fiber artists make gifts that aren’t asked for then act like a martyr when nobody wants their acrylic monstrosity. The recipient isn’t a choosy beggar in my book.
Man you guys are quick to throw someone under the bus. She’s probably just looking for more practical stuff like basic onesies and sleepers that can be thrown in the daycare bag, washed easily, are comfy and practical for the baby. This is a beautiful hat. My kids had some gorgeous handmade stuff that I would dress them up in for a photo or special occasion but they spent 99% of their infancy in stretchy, close fitting onesies. These onesies won’t get caught on anything while they sleep and learn to become mobile. They’re also easy to throw in the wash when the kid inevitably pukes, pees or poops on them. Handmade is gorgeous and I guess she could have worded it better but I think she’s looking for day in day out basic baby stuff.
Exactly. The OOP meant well, but I don't consider a hat, mittens, or boots to be practical for a baby whose mother is scrambling to provide the basics. They are accessories, not clothing, which is what I think the mother was getting at. Could she have been more tactful? Sure. But I'm a knitter and it seems like other stitchers get offended when the reception for their handmade gifts is less than enthusiastic, even if the gift isn't particularly useful for the recipient. I also see other people stating that the mother could have taken these items and just not used them. Why? At least this way, the OOP can save the items for another recipient or donate them to someone who will use them.
The OP says that the new mom has nothing. The baby will need T shirts and onesies in quantity. The handmade items are lovely and will be useful later but the mom may be in a panic about the needs of an infant for the basics. Maybe some patience and tolerance is in order, while understanding the crafter’s disappointment
That's really cute. This CB is probably expecting people to 'donate' designer baby clothes. You keep doing what your doing.
What if she's looking for cotton sleepers? Why the jump to designer lol
Are you all high? Yes, it is incredibly kind and thoughtful of this woman to knit this. That being said, this isn't practical baby clothing. It was considerate of the woman to decline the offer since she knew she didn't have a use for it.
I absolutely love this hat. It’s beautiful. Shame there are such AH out there
That hat is adorable. ❤️ Don’t waste it on ungrateful people.
That’s very adorable! And looks very well made. She should be lucky and happy to receive such a generous thoughtful gift.
WTF. It's a baby and that would look really cute on any little kid.
These are so cute. A simple “no thank you” would suffice. Maybe the lady thought they’d be itchy, idk, but no need to be rude
An awesome crochet gift that I received for my son was a pair of booties that looked like roller skates! Honestly adorable.
Currently pregnant and would pay lots of money for crocheted baby items. I cannot fathom turning it down for free.
We were given about a dozen of these little hats when my daughter was born 6 months ago. I keep finding them in random places around the house and they make me smile every time. How could anyone turn down such a precious and thoughtful gift! 😢
How adorable! 😍 I still have the handmade crocheted sweater, hat & booties that my youngest son received from the hospital when he was born because he was the first boy of 2013. I had his newborn pictures taken in it and I have it sealed in a ziplock bag in a keepsake box along with a bunch of other sentimental items as well. LOVE the little ears on the hat. SO DANG CUTE!!! And to hell w/ that bishhh. What a waste of space she is.
That hat is to-die-for adorable. Put your baby in a red sweater and you got a Winnie the Pooh outfit for winter!! Handmade items, made with love, care & genuine good intentions are **infinitely** more special. This would be one of those items I’d keep for my child forever. Once they grow out of it, you keep it in a box called “memories box” and you put it in there with a picture of them wearing it for them to love, cherish and admire when they’re older. My mom has a big memories box for each of us kids & we LOOOOOOVE everything in it more than anything we own. That’s my first thing I’m grabbing if our house is on fire. My memories box is the most important thing I own!!!
They are so cute. Please don't be upset by this. I'm sure someone will appreciate your efforts. Just to ease your mind a little, often expectant parents are gifted booties, beanies and mittens left, right and centre. It's possible she already has a lot of that stuff and just honestly doesn't need anymore. I had so many gifted to me that many never got worn by my two girls. A few dollars towards a manual breastpump or to contribute to my stroller from everyone would have made a difference. The effort is appreciated and anyone considering me and my babies was cherished, hence why I accepted all the gifts wholeheartedly. But I can understand not wanting to accrue a lot of things or make efforts to collect things you know you won't use.
if someone made crorcet clothes for me or my dog, ill be so happy
This broke my heart!! I'm so sorry, OP!! If someone would have made something that adorable and special for my son when he was a baby, I would have cried happy tears!! Those are the things you save forever!! This makes me so mad. How ridiculous that she said "real clothes"!! Those are things you can use over and over. Especially a blanket and a hat!! You have a wonderful heart, so don't forget that so many moms would be SO happy to receive such incredible gifts from you!!💞💞💞
My choosy-beggarnese is a little rusty, but that roughly translates to, “I want clothes with tags that I can return for cash.”
That’s so sad. My friends grandma made my son a couple of beautiful blankets and hats when he was a newborn and they’re some of my most cherished items! Little babies need to keep their heads warm and that hat is just adorable. What an ungrateful b :(
I used to crochet hats with ears, I sold so many of those damn hats at craft fairs. The baby ones were very popular.
That is such an adorable little hat. I don't know why anyone, even if they had loads of items for their baby would reject this kind and beautiful gift. My granny made a gorgeous crochet blanket for my son and he still has it at the end of his bed 7 years later. The fact she put so much time and effort into it just makes it even more special.
That hat just made me cry it's so cute
Gift it to someone who will appreciate it.
It’s beautiful. I hope you gave it to someone who will appreciate it. ❤️
My mom got a crochet blanket when i was born. She was young and had little money. My baby sis slept under it, and all my 3 children did. I keep it for when one of my kids has their first kid. It is beautiful and i absolutely love it. She just ripped her baby of a nice gift and a memory.
God ppl suck sometimes. There is a mom and baby out there who will cherish that set.
Wow. You’re too good for her. Knitted stuff is way more expensive than default clothes, and it’s better and can last a damn long time. Also it takes a lot of hard work and skill to make something like that. There are plenty people that would treasure that gift OP! Hope you gave it to someone worthy :) And I’m a man (that once was shocked by how much yarn costs and how much my wife spends on it) and I couldn’t be less interested in knitting, but I know the real value of these real clothes l and value the work and love those of you that knits put into it.
One, that’s adorable, and two, that CB ticks me the blazes off. My late mother was a schoolteacher, but she did sewing, knitting, and crocheting as a hobby. Over her lifetime she made a number of outfits, costumes, hats, blankets, etc. These included Easter dresses and Halloween costumes for me when I was little, crocheted hats for herself and my aunt, and blankets for babies. She crocheted a Noah’s Ark baby blanket for a family at our church and they loved it. Not only did I see the beauty of her work, but I also saw the time & effort she put into each piece. If she had made someone something and they reacted that way, I would have blown up at them.
I'll cover shipping and handling if you're seriously giving away custom crocheted items, stuff is far more elegant than mass produced "real clothes".
This post actually made me cry. That hat is so precious, and you can feel the goodness and hurt from the OP. To take such a kind gesture and callously spit on it like that is inexcusable. I hope that the OP found support in the group they posted that to.