Bolero in Hayfield Sundance DK - 2501 - Downloadable PDF

Bolero in Hayfield Sundance DK – Pattern 2501 by Sirdar

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Sirdar provides instructions for a charming children's bolero worked in Hayfield Sundance DK yarn. Designed to fit ages 2–3 through 12–13 years, the bolero is a versatile, lightweight cover-up that sits neatly over the shoulders and upper body, leaving the front open for an effortlessly stylish finish. With chest sizes ranging from 56 cm (22 in) to 81 cm (32 in) and actual measurements spanning 60 cm to 85 cm, there is a well-fitting size for every child in that age range. Full length grows from 26 cm (10¼ in) for the smallest size up to 46 cm (18 in) for the largest, and sleeve length is described as adjustable, ranging from approximately 24 cm to 42 cm, making it easy to customise the fit.

Design Overview

The bolero is a classic, cropped-style knitted garment featuring set-in sleeves, shaped armholes, and a neat front edge. The open-fronted silhouette is a hallmark of the bolero style, making it an ideal layering piece over dresses or tops for special occasions or everyday wear. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty, meaning it is well suited to knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping techniques but are ready to develop their skills further.

Techniques Used

• Thumb method cast on – used to begin the back and other sections, creating a firm, elastic edge
• Armhole shaping – stitches are decreased at each end of every row over a set number of rows to create the shaped armhole opening
• Front edge shaping – increases are worked at the front edge at regular intervals to create the characteristic curved or angled bolero front
• Decreasing – worked as knit two together or similar methods to reduce stitch counts at armholes and other shaping points
• Increasing – worked at the front edge to build the shaped front panels
• Working straight – sections are worked without shaping once the armhole depth is established, until the armhole measures the specified length
• Yarn forward (yfwd) – referenced in the abbreviations, suggesting decorative or structural use within the pattern

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch – the primary stitch throughout the garment, formed by alternating knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side, giving a smooth, classic fabric
• Knit (k) and purl (p) – the fundamental stitches forming the fabric

Materials Required

The pattern calls for Hayfield Sundance DK in shade 510, a double knitting weight yarn. Depending on the size being made, you will need 2 to 3 x 100g balls — smaller sizes (ages 2–3 through 8–9) require 2 balls, while the two largest sizes (ages 10–11 and 12–13) require 3 balls. Yarn quantities are based on average requirements when working to the stated tension with the specified yarn.

Needles Required

• 4mm (UK 8 / USA 6) knitting needles – used for the main body of the garment
• 3¼mm (UK 10 / USA 3) knitting needles – used for finer detail sections such as edgings or ribbing
• 3¼mm (UK 10 / USA 3) 80cm circular needle – required if needed, likely for picking up stitches around the front edges or neckline

Tension

The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch on 4mm needles. As with all garment knitting, achieving the correct tension is essential to ensure the finished bolero matches the intended measurements. The pattern advises switching to a