Soapstone Bolero in Sirdar Country Style 4 Ply - 9725 - Downloadable PDF

Soapstone Bolero in Sirdar Country Style 4 Ply – Pattern 9725

This knitting pattern from Sirdar provides full instructions for a classic bolero — a short, open-fronted jacket that sits above the waist and frames the shoulders beautifully. The Soapstone Bolero is designed in Sirdar Country Style 4 Ply, a lightweight yarn that gives the finished garment a neat, refined appearance ideal for layering over dresses, blouses, or casual tops. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, making it instantly accessible for knitters of all locations.

Sizing and Fit

One of the standout features of this pattern is its generous size range, making it truly inclusive. Sizes are provided to fit bust measurements from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 132/137 cm (52/54 in), covering six size options in total. The actual garment measurements range from 90 cm (35½ in) to 141 cm (55½ in), offering a comfortable, slightly eased fit across all sizes.

• To fit bust: 81/86, 91/97, 102/107, 112/117, 122/127, 132/137 cm (32/34 to 52/54 in)
• Actual measurement: 90–141 cm (35½–55½ in)
• Full length: 40–54 cm (15¾–21¼ in) depending on size
• Sleeve length: 6–7 cm (approximately 2½–2¾ in), noted as adjustable

The sleeve length is intentionally short, giving the bolero its characteristic cropped, shrug-like silhouette. The sleeve measurement is taken just below the armholes, with the full width spanning 45–70.5 cm (17¾–27¾ in) across the size range.

What Is a Bolero?

A bolero is a short, open-fronted garment that typically ends above or at the waist. In knitwear, boleros are popular for their versatility — they add warmth and style without the bulk of a full cardigan or jacket. The short sleeves and open front make this style particularly suited to 4 ply yarn, which produces a lightweight, drapey fabric that sits elegantly on the body.

Techniques Used

This is a pattern well-suited to knitters with some experience, as it involves standard garment construction techniques. Key techniques include:

• Flat knitting worked in pieces and seamed together
• Shaping for armholes and garment structure across multiple sizes
• Tension/gauge swatching — the pattern emphasises checking tension carefully before beginning
• Optional use of a circular needle for finishing or border sections
• Adjustable sleeve length, allowing knitters to customise the fit

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout the body of the bolero is stocking stitch (also known as stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic knitted fabric. Stocking stitch is worked by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side when knitting flat. The pattern tension is set over stocking stitch, confirming it as the dominant stitch pattern. Ribbing or border stitches are typically used on bolero edges and cuffs in patterns of this style, consistent with standard Sirdar construction methods.

Tension

The stated tension for this pattern is 28 stitches and 36 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch, measured on 3¼mm needles. Achieving the correct tension is essential in a fitted garment like a bolero, and the pattern explicitly advises knitters to check their tension swatch before casting on. Adjusting needle size up or down to match this tension will ensure the finished bolero matches the stated measurements.

Materials Required

The pattern calls for Sirdar Country Style 4 Ply, shade 388 (referenced under code F097). The yarn quantity required depends on size: