Valley Yarns WEBS Motif Bolero Crochet Pattern

Valley Yarns WEBS Motif Bolero by Doris Chan

What is Being Made

The Valley Yarns WEBS Motif Bolero is an open-front crocheted cardigan jacket designed by Doris Chan. This piece is a contemporary take on the classic bolero silhouette, falling just below the waist and featuring a relaxed, layered aesthetic. The garment is available in four sizes with finished bust measurements ranging from 34 inches (XS) to 52 inches (2XL), with corresponding back lengths from 15 to 21½ inches. The bolero is designed without front closures and does not require overlapping at the fronts, though crafters may add closures or create a cross-wrap style if desired depending on the size and ease chosen.

Construction and Techniques

This intermediate-level crochet pattern employs a distinctive modular construction method using granny-style motifs that have been updated with open stitch rounds to create a lacy, draped appearance. The motifs are worked individually and then joined to one another as you progress through the pattern, rather than being assembled after completion. The bolero uses both worked flat and worked in the round techniques, depending on the motif type. The pieces are seamed together following specific assembly diagrams that establish the geometric placement and connections of each motif.

The construction logic involves pentagon-shaped motifs that form the V neckline and create shaped shoulders, while square motifs fill in the underarms and complete the boxy body structure. The pattern includes detailed assembly diagrams to guide the placement and joining sequence, which establishes the overall garment architecture across all four sizes.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The pattern features granny-style motifs as its primary structural element. These traditional motifs have been modernized through the incorporation of open stitch rounds that contribute to the lacy aesthetic and fluid drape characteristic of the finished garment. The use of open stitches within the motif structure creates visual interest while maintaining the geometric integrity of the pentagon and square shapes.

Colorwork and Design Details

The bolero incorporates stripes created through the use of two coordinating yarn colors in the main colorway: Purple Passion and Soft Grape. The color sequence is intentionally designed to emphasize the geometry of the individual motifs, creating visual definition between the pentagon and square shapes. However, the pattern notes that crafters seeking a less patchwork appearance may choose to work the entire garment in a single shade, or alternatively, experiment with additional colorways to create custom color combinations.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Valley Yarns Charlemont, a premium sock and fingering weight yarn composed of 60% Fine Superwash Merino wool, 20% Mulberry silk, and 20% polyamide. Each 100-gram hank yields 439 yards. The yardage requirements are 1 hank each of the main color and contrast color for sizes XS and S/M, and 2 hanks each for sizes L/XL and 2XL.

A US size G/6 (4.00mm) crochet hook or the size required to achieve the specified gauge is needed for this project. Additional materials include a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and optional markers or safety pins to aid in assembly and pattern clarity.

Fitting and Sizing

The pattern provides detailed fitting guidance to help crafters select the appropriate size. For a comfortable, relaxed layering piece, the designer recommends choosing a size approximately 2 inches larger than your bust measurement. For a more fitted, body-conscious silhouette, select a size close to or slightly smaller than your actual bust measurement. The bolero's construction and open-front design offer versatility in how it can be worn and styled.