Sweater and Bolero in King Cole DK - 4163 - Downloadable PDF

Sweater and Bolero in King Cole DK – Pattern 4163

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from King Cole presents two classic knitwear designs: a sweater and a bolero, both knitted in King Cole DK (double knitting weight) yarn. The pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty, making it an excellent project for knitters who are comfortable with the basics and ready to develop their skills further. Sizes range from 81 cm to 112 cm (32 to 44 inches), offering a generous fit range suitable for a variety of body types.

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The Sweater

The sweater is a classically styled knitted garment worked in King Cole DK yarn. As an intermediate-level project, it incorporates shaping techniques and stitch pattern work that go beyond simple beginner knitting, rewarding the maker with a polished, wearable result.

Techniques and Construction

• Stocking stitch (st-st) forms a core element of the construction, worked with the right side knit and the wrong side purled, creating a smooth, classic fabric.
• The pattern incorporates a stitch pattern (patt) that is used as the basis for tension measurement, indicating textural or decorative stitch work beyond plain stocking stitch.
• Shaping techniques are used throughout, including casting off and decreasing, with specific notes about stitch counts after cast-off to ensure accuracy.
• Knitters work with slip stitches (sl), yarn forward (yfwd), yarn back (ybk), yarn round needle (yrn), and through back of stitches (tbs), suggesting lace-like or decorative detailing within the pattern.
• Stitches are worked together (tog) for decreasing, and alternate (alt) row shaping is employed for smooth, gradual curves.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) – the foundational stitches of all knitted fabric
• Stocking stitch – smooth, classic knitted fabric
• Slip stitch (sl) – used for neat edges or decorative effects
• Yarn forward (yfwd) and yarn round needle (yrn) – creating yarn-over increases, often associated with lace or eyelet detailing
• Through back of stitches (tbs) – a twisted stitch technique that adds definition and structure
• Knit/purl two together (tog) – standard decrease method

Materials

• Yarn: King Cole DK (double knitting weight)
• Needles: 4mm knitting needles are specified for the main tension swatch and garment fabric
• Tension: 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over pattern on 4mm needles

The Bolero

The bolero is the second design included in this pattern, offering a shorter, open-fronted layering piece that pairs beautifully with the sweater or can be worn independently as a stylish cover-up. Boleros are perennially popular knitwear projects — their compact size makes them quicker to complete than a full sweater, while still delivering a sophisticated, fashion-forward result.

Techniques and Construction

• Like the sweater, the bolero is knitted in King Cole DK on 4mm needles, maintaining the same tension and fabric quality.
• The same rich vocabulary of stitches and techniques applies, including stocking stitch, yarn overs, slip stitches, and through back of stitches, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic between the two garments.
• Shaping is achieved through decreasing and