Bolero in 2 colors

Bolero in 2 Colors by Beemohr

What is Being Made

The Bolero DUETTA is a two-color knitted bolero, a cropped open-front cardigan-style garment designed in sizes ranging from USA 2/4 through 14/16 (EU 32/34 through 44/46). This intermediate-level knitting project creates a sophisticated layering piece that combines two distinct colors within a single construction.

Construction Method

The bolero is knitted in one piece from the bottom up, streamlining the assembly process. The pattern incorporates a strategic color change at the midpoint of the piece, allowing crafters to create visual interest and design contrast. The designer recommends laying the knitted sections on top of one another at the color transition point to ensure precise alignment before beginning the decreasing sequences that shape the garment.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This project employs two primary stitch patterns:

• Garter Stitch Pattern: Knit in every row, creating a textured, reversible fabric. The cast-on begins with garter stitch worked over 4 rows using smaller needles to prevent an overly wide edge.
• Stockinette Stitch Pattern: Knit on right-side rows and purl on wrong-side rows, producing the classic smooth knit fabric that forms the main body of the bolero after the initial garter stitch foundation.

The pattern includes shaping through decreasing sequences that begin once the piece reaches 55–58 cm in length, depending on size. A color change is worked at approximately the halfway point of the piece's length.

Materials and Gauge

The Bolero DUETTA is designed to be worked in Mohair Katia Ingenua, a luxurious blend comprising 78% mohair, 13% polyamid, and 9% wool. Yardage requirements vary by size: sizes 2/4 and 6/8 require 2 balls (100g each), while sizes 10/12 and 14/16 require 3 balls (150g total).

Needles required include one pair of size 7 (4.5mm) needles for the cast-on and initial garter stitch rows, and size 15 (10mm) needles for the main stockinette stitch sections. The pattern emphasizes checking gauge before beginning: 6 stitches and 8 rows should measure 4 inches (10 cm) over stockinette stitch using size 15 (10mm) needles. Proper gauge ensures the finished bolero achieves the intended fit and drape.