Bolero Shrug Knit & crochet

Bolero Shrug Knit & Crochet by Leanna's Designs

What Is Being Made

This is a bolero shrug designed by Leanna's Designs in October 2011. A bolero is a short, open-front garment that covers the shoulders and upper back, providing layering versatility over dresses, tanks, or other tops. This particular design combines both knitting and crochet techniques, making it a mixed-craft project suitable for crafters with intermediate skill levels.

Available Sizes

The pattern is graded for multiple sizes to accommodate different ages and stages:

• Premmie size: For newborns and very small infants
• 00 – 6 month size: For babies up to six months old
• 6–12 month size: For babies between six and twelve months old

The pattern notes that by adjusting needle sizes and yarn weight, crafters can scale the bolero larger for older children or adults.

Knitting Techniques Used

The bolero begins with a knitted back panel that forms the foundation of the garment. The construction starts by casting on 58 stitches using the appropriate needle size for your chosen size. The pattern employs a ribbed stitch pattern in the opening rows, alternating knit and purl stitches in a K2, P2 sequence (knit 2 stitches, purl 2 stitches). This ribbing is worked for 9 rows and creates an elastic, textured edge that helps the garment hold its shape. After the ribbed section is complete, the knitter switches to larger needles and works in stockinette stitch (alternating knit and purl rows), which creates a smooth, classic fabric suitable for a fitted garment.

Crochet Techniques Used

While the pattern excerpt focuses primarily on the knitted back section, crochet elements are incorporated into the overall design. The pattern uses standard crochet abbreviations and stitches, including double crochet (dc), single crochet (sc), treble crochet (tr), half treble (htr), and slip stitch (ss). These stitches are used to construct or finish portions of the bolero, likely creating edgings, borders, or additional panels that complement the knitted sections.

Stitches Employed

The pattern utilizes a range of fundamental crochet and knitting stitches:

• Knitting stitches: Knit stitch (K), purl stitch (P), and ribbed stitch combinations
• Crochet stitches: Double crochet, single crochet, treble crochet, half treble, and slip stitch

The pattern is written using UK crochet terminology throughout, with US equivalents provided for reference. This is an important distinction, as UK and US crochet stitch names differ significantly—for example, a UK double crochet is equivalent to a US single crochet.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The bolero accommodates multiple yarn weights, allowing crafters to choose based on their preferred finished size and fabric weight:

• 4-ply yarn: 100% cotton, 100g (approximately 1 ball for premmie size)
• DK weight yarn: 50g balls (approximately 1 ball for 00–6 month size)
• Sport weight yarn: 100g (approximately 1 ball for 6–12 month size)

The use of cotton yarn is specified for the premmie size, making the bolero breathable and suitable for delicate newborn skin. The pattern requires 3 buttons for each size, which serve as closures for the front opening.

Needles and Hooks

The pattern calls for multiple needle and hook sizes to accommodate the different yarn weights and create proper fabric gauge:

• Knitting needles: Sizes range from 2.25mm (US 1, UK 12) for the premmie size up to 4mm (US 6, UK 8) for the largest size
• Crochet hooks: Sizes range from