The Bumhugger Bolero

The Bumhugger Bolero by Knitatude - Chantal

What is Being Made

The Bumhugger Bolero is a fitted knit cardigan designed to hug the body through the hips and seat. This beginner-friendly bolero features a width across the back of 40 inches (1.02 meters) and a length from neck to hem of approximately 32 inches (81 centimeters). The garment is described as a versatile piece suitable for wearing throughout multiple seasons, offering a flattering silhouette that works well over tights and other layering pieces.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Bumhugger Bolero is worked using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. The pattern is constructed by knitting flat on circular needles rather than in the round, which allows the designer to accommodate the width of the garment that would not fit on traditional straight needles. This technique choice makes the project accessible while still producing a substantial, wearable piece. The construction method requires only essential skills: casting on, binding off, knitting, purling, and seaming to complete the finished garment.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch – The primary stitch pattern, created by alternating knit and purl rows to produce the classic smooth, V-textured fabric
• Ribbed Edging – Worked using a K1, P1 (knit one, purl one) alternating pattern for the first four rows, creating an elastic, textured border

Materials and Tools

The Bumhugger Bolero requires 4 skeins of We Are Knitters "The Wool" or an equivalent super bulky weight yarn (category 6) totaling approximately 320 meters or 349 yards. The project is worked on US 19/15 millimeter circular needles measuring 32 inches (60 centimeters) long, which provides adequate needle length for the 66 cast-on stitches while allowing the fabric to be worked flat. A tapestry darning needle is required for seaming the finished pieces together. The gauge is 10 stitches by 10 rows over 5.5 by 5.5 inches (14 by 14 centimeters) when worked in Stockinette stitch.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner pattern, the Bumhugger Bolero requires only basic knitting competencies. If you can successfully cast on, knit, purl, bind off, and seam pieces together, you possess all the skills necessary to complete this project. The straightforward stitch work and minimal pattern complexity make it an ideal choice for knitters new to garment construction.