Filatura Di Crosa Santa Lucia Bolero Crochet Pattern

Filatura Di Crosa Santa Lucia Bolero

What Is Being Made

The Santa Lucia Bolero is a lightweight, open-front cardigan designed by Robyn Schrager. This garment is a cropped bolero-style jacket featuring elegant lace construction and a sophisticated drape. Available in five sizes ranging from Small to 2X, the finished bust measurements span from 39 inches (99 cm) to 57 inches (145 cm), with a consistent length of 14 inches (35.5 cm). The bolero is fastened with a single 1-inch (25mm) diameter button, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Construction Method

This bolero is worked flat in a unique side-to-side construction method, meaning the entire body is crocheted as one continuous piece rather than being assembled from separate panels. The design features multiple curved sections across the back combined with straight sections, creating a tailored fit that contours the body. The sleeves are attached as separate rows of foundation double crochet and are worked last, allowing for precise placement and fit. This innovative construction approach reduces the amount of seaming required while maintaining structural integrity.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Santa Lucia Bolero employs several specialized crochet techniques to achieve its elegant appearance. Lace construction forms the primary visual element, created through strategic use of chain-6 loops that form decorative openwork throughout the garment. Foundation double crochet (Fdc) is used as the base technique for creating the sleeve openings, eliminating the need for a traditional chain foundation and providing a finished edge from the start. The pattern incorporates curved sections strategically placed across the back and at the waist edge to provide shaping and a flattering silhouette. Seaming is used to join curved sections to straight sections, creating the structured fit of the bolero. The garment is worked in double crochet (dc), half double crochet (hdc), and single crochet (sc) stitches in varying combinations to create textural interest and structural support.

Stitches and Stitch Details

• Double crochet (dc): The primary stitch used throughout most of the garment, providing height and drape
• Half double crochet (hdc): Used in transitional areas to create a gradual decrease in stitch height
• Single crochet (sc): Employed in select sections for added structure and definition
• Chain stitches (ch): Used extensively to create the decorative ch-6 loops that form the lace pattern
• Slip stitch (slip st): Used to join curved and straight sections together and to create transitions between pattern sections
• Foundation double crochet (Fdc): A specialized technique combining chain and double crochet in a single motion, used for the sleeve openings

Materials and Tools

The Santa Lucia Bolero is crafted using Filatura di Crosa TEMPO yarn, a premium blend composed of 51% cotton, 37% acrylic, and 12% polyamide. This fiber combination provides breathability from the cotton content, durability from the acrylic, and elasticity from the polyamide, making it ideal for a garment requiring both structure and drape. The yarn is available in color #28 storm clouds, a sophisticated neutral shade. The pattern requires 3 to 5 balls depending on size, with each ball containing 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and 115 yards (105 meters) of yarn. Construction is completed using a Size G-6 (4mm) crochet hook, which works in conjunction with the yarn weight to achieve the specified gauge of 16 stitches and 7 rows equaling 4 inches (10 cm) in double crochet. Additional materials include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and a yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming sections together.

Pattern Structure and Gauge

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project, as the bolero's fit depends on accurate stitch and row measurements. The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 stitches and 7 rows measuring 4 inches (10 cm) in double crochet. Crocheters are advised to take time to check gauge before beginning, as variations in tension will affect the finished bust measurements and overall fit of the garment. The pattern is formatted as a downloadable PDF, allowing for easy reference during the crocheting process.