BDC Loopigan

BDC Loopigan Crochet Bolero by Blu Daisy Creations

What Is Being Made

The BDC Loopigan is a crochet bolero garment designed by Sweet Hues/Blu Daisy Creations. This piece is inspired by permission from Jenny Faifel's knit design "Loopdigan" and offers a crochet interpretation of the original concept. The bolero features an open mesh construction that creates a lightweight, layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Craft and Primary Technique

This is a crochet project designed for beginner-level crafters. The pattern emphasizes the importance of watching the included YouTube video tutorial before beginning work, as specific techniques are demonstrated that differ from standard approaches. The designer notes particular attention to hook insertion methods and loop manipulation, specifically pulling up a loop after inserting the hook into the slanted bar for proper stitch formation.

Stitches Used

The BDC Loopigan utilizes double crochet (DC) stitches as the primary stitch structure. The pattern involves working double crochet stitches across multiple rows simultaneously, creating the characteristic mesh appearance of the bolero. Proper tension maintenance across row stitches is emphasized to prevent rows from curving during construction.

Materials and Tools

This pattern is worked with yarn in DK and worsted weight, offering flexibility in yarn choice. The project requires two crochet hook sizes: a 5.5 mm hook for creating the foundation chain and armhole chains, and a 5.0 mm hook for working the body of the garment. The designer notes important considerations for different yarn fiber content—cotton blend yarns will stretch more than acrylic, and testers found that cotton blend versions produced mesh approximately 10 inches shorter than acrylic versions, requiring careful fitting before seaming.

Construction Notes

The pattern begins with a chain-5 foundation (not chain-6 as shown in some video references) to start each double crochet section when working two rows simultaneously. Maintaining equal tension throughout row stitches is critical to the finished appearance. Crafters should carefully track the mesh row sequence during construction, as mixing up row patterns will affect the final garment. The downloadable PDF format includes step-by-step photos at the end of the pattern to guide construction, supplementing the video tutorial for visual learners.