A Winter Winner

A Winter Winner Bolero by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

A Winter Winner is a knitted bolero jacket designed by Pat Menchini, available in six sizes ranging from 76-81 cm (30-32 inches) to 127-132 cm (50-52 inches) to fit various body measurements. This garment features a fitted design with an underarm width of 94 to 147 cm depending on size selection, and includes button closures for a classic bolero silhouette. The length to shoulder shaping ranges from 49 to 54 cm, making it a cropped style perfect for layering over other garments during winter months.

Techniques and Construction

This knitting pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginner-level crafters. The bolero is constructed using standard flat knitting methods with shaping at the shoulder to create a fitted garment. The pattern requires working with two different yarn weights and textures in combination, which adds visual interest and textural contrast to the finished piece. Shoulder shaping is incorporated to ensure proper fit across the back yoke, with measurements ranging from 61 to 89 cm depending on size.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided materials list, the pattern utilizes standard knitting stitches worked to a tension of 11 stitches and 15 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches). This tension measurement is critical for achieving the correct finished measurements and garment fit. The combination of two distinct yarns—one smooth and one textured—creates visual and tactile variation throughout the bolero.

Materials and Yarn

Primary Yarn: King Cole Gypsy Super Chunky yarn in shade Silver Mist 3271 forms the main body of the bolero. This super chunky weight yarn provides 92 metres (102 yards) per 100g ball. Depending on size, the pattern requires between 5 and 7 balls of this yarn.

Accent Yarn: King Cole Luxury Fur in shade Silver Fox 4207 is used as a complementary yarn, also providing 92 metres (100 yards) per 100g ball. Between 1 and 2 balls of this luxury fur yarn are needed depending on the size being knitted, creating a luxurious textured element.

Needles: The pattern calls for two pairs of knitting needles—5 mm (UK size 6, US size 8) needles and 9 mm (UK size 00, US size 13) needles. The different needle sizes allow for varied fabric density and texture throughout the garment construction.

Notions: Two buttons are required to complete the bolero closure.

Important Pattern Notes

• Yarn amounts provided are approximate based on average requirements
• When substituting yarns, ensure the replacement yarn matches the stated tension of 11 stitches and 15 rows to 10 centimeters
• Pattern is available as a downloadable PDF format for immediate access
• Suitable for knitters with beginner-level experience