Kichi Cropped Kimono

Kichi Cropped Kimono by Primrose Patterns

What is Being Made

The Kichi Cropped Kimono is a structured crochet bolero designed to be worn as a layering piece. This garment features a cropped silhouette with a kimono-inspired construction, available in four sizes ranging from Small (fitting chest 30-32") to Extra Large (fitting chest 42-44"). The design is worked in sections, with the left front and back pieces constructed first, followed by the center and right front and back sections, creating a sophisticated garment suitable for intermediate crocheters.

Techniques Used

The Kichi Cropped Kimono employs several foundational crochet techniques to achieve its structured shape and drape. The garment is worked primarily from side to side, a construction method that allows for seamless integration of pattern repeats across the width of the piece. The pattern incorporates color or texture changes through strategic hook size transitions—alternating between a US F hook and US G hook—which affects stitch density and creates visual interest. The construction involves chaining to establish foundation stitches, changing hooks mid-row to modify fabric characteristics, and working in rows with turning chains to maintain proper stitch height throughout the piece.

Stitches Used

• Single Crochet (sc): Used extensively throughout the pattern, particularly in the foundational rows and in alternating rows to create a dense, stable fabric base
• Double Crochet (dc): Incorporated in the repeating pattern rows to add height and create a more open, flowing texture compared to single crochet
• Treble Crochet (tr): Used strategically in the center front and back section to create taller stitches that transition the garment structure
• Chain (ch): Used for foundation chains and turning chains throughout the pattern to establish rows and maintain proper stitch placement

Materials and Specifications

The Kichi Cropped Kimono is designed to be worked in Stylecraft Naturals Bamboo Cotton DK yarn in the colorway Pitch, which is composed of 60% bamboo and 40% cotton. This fiber blend offers breathability and a subtle sheen characteristic of bamboo yarns, making it ideal for a cropped bolero intended as a layering piece. Yardage requirements vary by size: Size Small requires 5 balls (approximately 1,365 yards total), Size Medium requires 6 balls, Size Large requires 7 balls, and Size Extra Large requires 8 balls. Each ball contains 273 yards and weighs 3.52 ounces.

The pattern calls for two crochet hook sizes: a US F hook and a US G hook. The US F hook is used for the majority of the garment construction and establishes the primary gauge of 19 single crochet stitches and 24 rows measuring 4 inches. The US G hook is used selectively to create sections with slightly looser tension, contributing to the garment's overall drape and fit. The downloadable PDF format allows crafters to access the complete pattern instructions, which include detailed row-by-row guidance for constructing each section of the bolero.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle garment construction. The intermediate classification reflects the pattern's requirement to manage multiple sections, execute hook size changes mid-pattern, and maintain consistent gauge across a wearable project. While the individual stitches used are relatively basic, the construction method and sizing variations demand attention to detail and a solid understanding of how stitch counts and row measurements translate to proper fit.