The Preemie Project helps to support the Touching Hearts Program of The University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa. We provide bereavement items such as gowns, layettes, blankets and items of remembrance for grieving families. Not all of the volunteers are able to participate in this program because of the sadness it brings them--that is understandable. Some have even experienced this kind of loss first hand and though the desire to reach out to the grieving parents is there, the personal pain is just too great. If you talk to those that have lost an infant, you will find that the kindness of receiving a beautiful gown for their little one touches their heart in a special way. That is my prayer for this little gown.
Pattern: Little Sunshine Burial Gown from Heavenly Angels in Need
Yarn: Bernat Softee Baby (Sport D.K.)
Needles: US 5
Finished Size: 3-5 lbs
Finished Measurements: Chest = 10" circumference, Length = 14" from neck to bottom edge.
Notes:
This gown is open in the back for ease in dressing.
The pattern did not call for it, but I added a small ribbon at the neck to keep it closed.
When making the eyelet row, be sure to end with a YO. I didn't do this and ended up one stitch short. This was easily fixed by increasing one stitch.
The edges of this gown do not have a seed stitch or garter stitch border as some gowns do, therefore the edges curl. I do not see this a problem, but you do need to block the gown slightly to prevent excessive curling. I used steam.
Added later:
The rose trim on this gown was purchased at Wal-Mart. It is sold by the spool. There was nothing on the package to indicate the amount of trim. It was probably about 1 yard. I think the price was less than $2.00. I found it where they sell the lace by the spool. The manufacturer is Model Crafts. It is sewn on by hand.
The small ribbon flowers were bought at Jo-Ann's. These are very inexpensive, I think something like 50 cents a package. This particular style came six to a package. The manufacturer is Offray. It is easy to hand sew these in place. I used one on the top of the hat, one on each bootie and one sewn on top of the rose trim on the front of the gown.
Using store bought embellishments is a quick and easy way to dress up a simple garmet and give it a special touch. You can find many choices in all fabric and craft centers. Options for boy's outfits are harder to find.
Tracy, that is just lovely. I'm sure it'll help a grieving parent a whole lot. Beautiful work.
ReplyDeleteThat is really beautiful. I'm working on a couple of gowns right now also.
ReplyDeletePlease tell more about your chosen embellishment. So pretty.
That is so beautiful. It will mean so much in a time of need. I would like to hear about the embellishment you used as well.
ReplyDeleteThat little gown is so precious. My oldest daughter had an expected stillborn baby a few years ago and we would have been very thankful to have had that choice made for us. It was very hard to shop for a gown for the baby.
ReplyDeleteThank you for what you do!
*sniff* Tracy. Just looking at these photos made me cry. This is the sweetest most precious beautiful thing I could ever imagine donating to the Preemie Project. Words just couldn't possibly say what a parent would feel knowing that this is the garment they last saw their precious baby wearing. I know that ones for boys could be just as precious because honestly, they're babies too, who are just as tiny and delicate as girls. I know that some white satin ribbon and/or tiny ric-rac would be just as sweet.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful. Very special.
ReplyDeleteTracy, your work is so beautiful. It's hard to imagine that someone wouldn't be touched by such a lovely gesture from a stranger.
ReplyDeleteSomone is going to be very touched and very grateful to receive that beautiful gown. It is just breathtaking, and sure to bring comfort to the bereaved parents.
ReplyDeleteOh my, Tracy, I almost have no words to describe... it's just breath taking. I know, from experience, that the parents of the tiny babe who recieves your gown will be blessed by it. You're attention to detail is just awesome - a true inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI forgot to ask, what bootie pattern is that?
ReplyDeleteTracy, what a beautiful gown. You are truly a special person with a warm heart.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing all of the blankets and this gown. The things you create are truly inspirational, as are your insights.
ReplyDeleteOh, Tracy! What a gorgeous set! I started to puddle up as I read, and I am now, too. That will be beyond priceless to some grieving parents. Thank you SO much for making it! Me, I still have my white "Pound of Love" in the bag, waiting for me to be able to make some burial items. I know I would have cherished something for my son.
ReplyDeleteThis is SO beathtakingly BEAUTIFUL! It's certain to touch the hearts of the recipients! Too bad boys cloths are harder to work up. Maybe we should put the challenge up for one month to see who could make the cutest boy outfit? Of course it would have to be after the olympic knitting for me;D
ReplyDeleteabsolutely beautiful!!!!!! by the way you take really great pictures,,, have you studied photography? or does it come natural?
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