Everyday Flair Bolero Knitting Pattern

Everyday Flair Bolero Knitting Pattern by Lion Brand

What Is Being Made

The Everyday Flair Bolero is a versatile finishing piece designed to complement any outfit. This knitted bolero is available in three sizes: Small, Large, and 1X, with finished chest measurements of 43, 47, and 51 inches respectively. The finished length ranges from 23 to 25 inches depending on size, including borders. This garment is ideal for layering and adds an elegant accent to casual or dressy ensembles.

Skill Level and Pattern Details

Rated as Easy +, this pattern is suitable for knitters with basic experience who are ready to tackle slightly more advanced techniques. The pattern is written for the smallest size with detailed instructions for larger sizes provided in parentheses throughout. Knitters are advised to circle all numbers pertaining to their chosen size before beginning to ensure accuracy and ease of following the pattern.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Everyday Flair Bolero employs a distinctive construction method where the Left and Right Fronts are knit separately from the lower edge to the shoulder. These front pieces are then joined together, and the back section is knit from the neck down to the lower edge. This technique allows for strategic shaping and creates a well-fitted garment. Knitters should refer to the included schematic diagram to clarify the shaping of the bolero throughout the construction process.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates two primary stitch patterns:

• Broken Rib Pattern: This textured stitch is the main stitch used throughout most of the bolero. The Broken Rib is worked over two rows, alternating between a knit row and a row combining knit and purl stitches in a *K3, p2* repeat. This creates visual interest and subtle texture while maintaining a relatively simple execution suitable for intermediate knitters.
• Mesh Stitch: Used as an accent element, the Mesh Stitch is created by alternating yarn overs with knit two stitches together across the row. This creates an openwork, lacy appearance that adds elegance and visual variation to the finished bolero.

The pattern also includes the Kfb (knit front and back) increase, which is worked by knitting into a stitch without removing it from the left needle, then knitting through the back of the same stitch. When increasing, new stitches are worked into the Broken Rib pattern as established, maintaining pattern continuity throughout the shaping.

Materials and Gauge

The Everyday Flair Bolero is designed to be worked with Lion Brand Homespun Yarn in the Wild Fire colorway. The yardage requirements are 4 balls for Small, 4 balls for Large, and 5 balls for 1X size. Size 10 (6 mm) knitting needles are required for this project. Additional materials include Lion Brand Stitch Holders for managing stitches, Split Ring Stitch Markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and Large-Eye Blunt Needles for weaving in yarn ends.

The pattern gauge is 13 stitches and 18 rows equals 4 inches (10 cm) in the Broken Rib pattern. Achieving the correct gauge is essential to ensure the finished bolero matches the specified dimensions and that the yardage provided is sufficient. Knitters should swatch before beginning; if fewer stitches and rows are achieved, smaller needles should be used, and if more stitches and rows are achieved, larger needles should be substituted.

Pattern Information

This is Pattern Number 80944AD from Lion Brand Yarn, offered as a free downloadable PDF. The pattern had no corrections as of December 2, 2011. This classic design combines ease of construction with elegant finishing details, making it an excellent project for knitters seeking to expand their skills while creating a wearable, fashionable garment.