UKHKA 82 Boleros, Cardigans and Hat - UKHKA82pdf - Downloadable PDF

UKHKA 82: Knitted Boleros, Cardigans and Hat – Pattern Summary

UKHKA 82 is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern from UKHKA that includes instructions for three distinct baby and toddler projects: a knitted bolero, a knitted picot cardigan, and a knitted hat. Designed at an intermediate difficulty level, this pattern is worked in Double Knitting (DK) weight yarn and covers a wide range of sizes, from premature babies right through to 1–2 years, making it a versatile addition to any baby knitter's collection.

Sizes and Measurements

The pattern is sized to fit chest measurements ranging from 31 cm (12 in) up to 56 cm (22 in), corresponding to premature, 0–3 months, 3–6 months, 6–12 months, and 1–2 years. Actual garment measurements are given as 36 cm to 61 cm to allow for ease. Specific length details for each garment are provided:

• Bolero full length: 16 cm to 32 cm (6¼ in to 12½ in) depending on size
• Picot Cardigan full length: 18 cm to 34 cm (7 in to 13½ in) depending on size
• Sleeve length: 8 cm to 24 cm (3 in to 9½ in) depending on size
• Hat width around head: 28 cm to 41 cm (11 in to 16 in) depending on size

The Bolero

The knitted bolero is a short, open-fronted baby garment that sits at or above the waist, making it an ideal layering piece over dresses or tops. As a bolero, it typically has no front fastening and features a curved or shaped front edge. The shaping in this pattern is achieved through careful front edge increases, worked row by row and on alternate rows depending on the size being knitted. For example, the pattern instructs knitters to increase one stitch at the front edge in every row for a set number of rows, then switch to increasing on every following alternate row — a technique that creates the characteristic swept-back front curve of a bolero silhouette.

The graduated shaping instructions vary significantly between sizes, with the pattern providing detailed row-by-row guidance for each of the six size options. Larger sizes include additional shaping rows worked on every fourth row to achieve the correct proportions, demonstrating the intermediate level of skill required to follow and adapt these instructions accurately.

The Picot Cardigan

The picot cardigan is a slightly longer garment than the bolero and features a picot edge — a delicate, decorative finish created using a sequence of yarn-over and decrease stitches that produce a series of small points or loops along the hem, cuffs, or button band. This technique is a hallmark of classic baby knitwear and gives the cardigan an elegant, heirloom quality. The picot edging adds both visual interest and a neat finish without requiring additional embellishment.

Like the bolero, the picot cardigan is worked with shaped front edges and set-in or shaped sleeves. The longer length compared to the bolero gives it a more traditional cardigan silhouette, suitable for everyday wear or special occasions.

The Hat

The knitted hat included in this pattern is sized to fit head circumferences from 28 cm to 41 cm, coordinating neatly with the bolero and cardigan to create a matching set. Baby hats in DK weight knitting are typically worked either flat and seamed or in the round, and are shaped at the crown through decrease rows that draw the stitches together to form a neat, rounded top. The hat provides a practical and stylish accessory to complete either outfit.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern draws on a range of intermediate knitting techniques, making it suitable for knitters who are comfortable with the basics and ready to develop their skills further. Key techniques include:

• Front edge shaping using single stitch increases worked in every row, every alternate row, and every fourth row
• Picot edging — a decorative finish using yarn-over increases paired with decreases to create a