White Baby Shawl…

…..why buy your newborn a shawl or blanket?

Handmade baby shawls are making a come-back. Or perhaps they have never gone out of fashion. So ditch that acrylic blanket and invest in a dewy, soft, wool shawl, that your baby will love.

There really is nothing quite like a beautiful baby shawl. I’m going to try to answer some of your questions about them.

Pre-pregnancy, I can guess that you’ve never given baby shawls and newborn blankets a single thought. It’s not the kind of thing you’d discuss on a girlie night out. But now you’re pregnant, with your 1st baby, and this new little life is going to need some sort of cover to keep it cosy.

How hard can it be to choose a blanket for your baby?

Harder than you think. There’s a whole new vocabulary surrounding baby linen. Muslins, comforters, swaddles, shawls, blankets, sleeping-bags …the list goes on. 

So let’s concentrate on baby shawls. 

What’s the difference between a baby shawl and a baby blanket?

This is a question that new Mums and dads often ask. Blankets are thicker and a good bit heavier. A knitted blanket isn’t nearly so fine as a traditionally made baby shawl. 

Shawls are very delicate and some can have intricate stitching. They are usually lacy and can have a pretty scalloped edge. The lacework should be incredibly fine as larger lace patterns can trap your baby’s tiny fingers.  

Blankets still have their place. They are generally less expensive, when compared to a pure wool shawl, and so it’s usual to have just one shawl and a few extra blankets. Shawls are really for that newborn to 12-week stage. Sometimes called the 4th trimester, when your baby is adjusting to life outside your womb. A super-soft shawl will give your baby the perfect little cocoon to rest in. Being wrapped in a puffy, white cloud will help your babe to feel safe and secure, just like they have done for the previous nine months inside you. 

How many baby shawls do I need?

Shawls need careful washing, but dry very quickly, so if your budget doesn’t stretch to two shawls, you can get by with just one. 

Of course if you have twins then you’ll need at least two shawls.

Why invest in a baby shawl?

When you swaddle your new little bundle in a fine wool shawl it’s like wrapping them in a soft candyfloss. The shawl weighs next to nothing, and your baby won’t have the weight of a heavy blanket on his or her little limbs. 

Your baby will have so many peaceful, safe sleeps in their shawl. From the moment they are born they will practically live in it. The material is so soft and comforting against their delicate baby-soft skin.

Your first memories of life with your little one will be made while cradling them in their shawl. Trust me one day, in years to come, you’ll find it, wrapped in tissue, and all those wonderful emotions of holding your baby for the first time, will come flowing back. Don’t even get me started on how it will make you feel when you’re handed your first grandchild, wrapped in that same beautiful shawl. 

A baby shawl snuggly wrapped around your newborn, cocoons them in a silky, soft nest and helps them feels safe when they nod off to sleep.

What material is best for a baby shawl?

Shawls can be made from wool, merino wool, cashmere, acrylic and cotton. 

My favourite is the Elegant Soft Wool Baby Shawl, closely followed by the Super-Fine Merino Wool Christening Shawl and the Cosy Cashmere Shawl, all created by G.H.Hurt.

Super-Fine Merino wool is exceedingly breathable, so your baby is kept at just the right temperature. 

Cool on summer nights, warm and cosy on those frosty winter nights. They will be at the perfect temperature, 12 months of the years, so you don’t need to worry.

What Size is best for a baby shawl?

Shawls should be large. They are made from such finely knitted material that they are never bulky, when wrapped around your baby.

My favourite shawl is 124 x 116cm. It’s big enough to be able to swaddle your baby but not so big that it’s too bulky.

Why are handmade shawls so expensive?

Imagine a shawl so fine and delicate, that it takes 2 full days to make. Yes, each shawl takes two full days to knit and hand-finish. It’s stitched with traditional artisan techniques, which means it’s crafted to last for generations. You’re not just buying a blanket, you really are, investing in an heirloom. 

You are buying a little bit of luxury. Little princes, princesses and celebrity babies have all made their debut to the world wrapped in delicate wool and cashmere. So treat your family to a little slice of bliss. 

Baby Shower Gifts

Baby shawls make a wonderful baby shower gift. What new Mum or Dad wouldn’t welcome such a special present. You really can’t go wrong with this gift. And just think, your thoughtful present will not only be used for this new baby, but for generations to come

Is a baby shawl useful in a newborn photoshoot?

Absolutely! 

I have a selection of beautiful baby shawls in my studio. They are perfect for settling your baby. I use them in all my newborn sessions and for younger babies too. They have the perfect amount of stretch and are so soft and comforting for my tiny clients. Christening shawls are so classic and pure and fit beautifully with my simple Scandi-style of baby photography. I use only the best and they are all from a wonderful UK company, G.H. Hurt

If you have your own baby shawl or white christening blanket, please bring it to your baby’s photoshoot. It’s extra special to be able ti use your baby’s own shawl.

If you love my Scandi-syle of baby photography and are ready to book a Newborn Photoshoot for your baby then click the button below.