Guidelines for Socks and Booties

Below is information that will be helpful when making your lilybugs socks or booties.  For more details, including ideas for yarn and patterns, as well as a supportive group, please join our yahoo group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lilybugs/

 
Yarn Selection:

Socks and booties should be made from soft yarn that is cotton, synthetic, or a blend.  Please avoid using wool as some people are allergic to wool.  It can be difficult to find non-wool sock yarn.  Two of our favorites are Panda Cotton by Crystal Palace and Cascade Fixation.  It is very important to avoid using any yarn that is fuzzy or has a “hairy” texture.  Also check your yarn to be sure that it does not shed.  The Pediatric Heart Center is a surgical environment and loose fibers can interfere with the medical equipment.

All socks and booties will be washed and dried prior to delivery.  They must go into a hot dryer for 15 minutes before we can take them into the hospital.  Ideally, the yarn should be able to be tumble dried, however even those labeled “lay flat to dry” seem to be fine in the dryer for 15 minutes. 

 
Sizing:

Socks and booties should be made to fit babies and toddlers 0-24 months, although socks of any size will be accepted!  It is important that the sock has a stretchy cuff, so that it will stay on the foot but not be too tight around the baby’s calf.  Booties that have a cord that ties around the ankle also work really well.

 
Return Instructions:

Socks and booties can be returned to lilybugs in person in San Francisco or by mail.  Please email us at lilybugs-owner@yahoogroups.com to set up your delivery.

Along with your socks and booties, please provide the fiber content, washing and drying instructions from the yarn label, and your first name and city of residence.  This information is put on the lilybugs tag and given to the family.

Thank you for your support!  Please feel free to email us with any questions!