Pretty bolero for a toddler
The bolero as such a popular wardrobe accessory for women in the 1950s - it went with all those off-the-shoulder/strapless little numbers (see footnote **) which was the only way to make them respectable day-wear.
This toddler adaptation with its cute puffy sleeves was clearly intended for a little girl.
InstructionsThe instructions are for two sizes - the larger size is given in bold
blue in curly brackets thus: "Intended to fit 1{2}
year old.". BackWith No.10 needles and main shade (M), cast on 70 {76} sts and work straight in stocking stitch, starting with a knit row, until back measures 2¼ {2¾} inches. With right side facing, shape armholes by decreasing 1 stitch at each end of next and every following alternate row until 58{64} sts remain. Work straight until back measures 5¾ {6¼} inches. With right side facing, shape shoulders by casting off 8 {9} sts. at beginning of next 4 rows. Cast off remaining 26 {28} sts. loosely. Left frontWith No 10 needles and M, cast on 18 {21} sts and work 2 rows in stocking stitch, starting with a knit row. Continue in stocking stitch, shaping the front edge by increasing 1 stitch
at the end of the next row, then at this edge on every following row until
there are 27 {30} sts. Right frontWork to correspond with left front, reversing all shapings. SleevesWith No 12 needles and M, cast on 43 {43}
sts and purl 1 row. Next row (right side facing): k2tog,
across entire row. BordersJoin shoulder seams. Main border: With No. 12 needles and contrast yarn C, cast on 7 sts and work in pattern as follows: 1st row (wrong side facing): Using
contrast C, * k1, p1; repeat from
* to last st, k1. These 6 rows form the pattern. Pin in position as you go along Sleeve Borders: In the same way work a strip in the pattern to
fit all round each sleeve edge. To Make UpPress parts gently on the wrong side under a damp cloth. |
MaterialsOriginal materials called for: 2 {2}
ozs Patons Beehive Fin- A pair each Nos 10 and 12 (3¼mm and 2¾mm) needles. Tension30sts and 38 rows to 4 ins over stocking stitch on No 10 needles. Size mattersWidth all round at underarm. 18 {20}
inches; length from top of shoulders, 6½ {7}
ins; sleeve seam, 2½ {2½}
ins. A word on the wool.I used some vintage 3 ply yarn which had no label (but I believe is wool) for the main shade, and some Patons pure wool 3ply in white for the contrast. Disclaimer
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**Footnote: Have you seen Dana Wynter's outfit at the start of Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)?? Here - take a peek - it did have a bolero but she immediately removed it on entering the room.
All this for a visit to the dentist - ok,ok, he was her old boyfriend whom she was trying to impress....