How to Crochet a Top-Down Granny Bolero | Free Pattern: Newborn to 12 Months

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How to Crochet a Top-Down Granny Bolero: Free Pattern for All Sizes

Welcome to the blog! I am so excited to share one of my favorite projects with you today. If you are looking for a free crochet baby cardigan pattern that is quick, stylish, and perfect for beginners, you are in the right place. This Granny Stitch Bolero is a versatile piece that adds a touch of handmade charm to any baby outfit.

Why You’ll Love This Crochet Bolero Pattern

This pattern uses the classic granny stitch in a modern, top-down construction. The "top-down" method is a favourite among crocheters because it is completely seamless—meaning no sewing pieces together at the end!

What makes this bolero unique is the tapered front design. By strategically skipping spaces at the beginning and end of rows, we create a beautiful curved opening that sits perfectly over dresses. Whether you are making a newborn crochet gift or a cozy layer for a toddler, this pattern is easily adjustable. We have included specific instructions for four sizes: Newborn, 0-3 Months, 3-6 Months, and 6-12 Months.

Choosing Your Materials

For this project, I used James C. Brett Super Soft Baby DK in a beautiful pastel blue. This yarn is an 8-ply (double knit) weight that feels incredibly soft against a baby's delicate skin. To finish the look, I added two delicate pearl buttons and a small matching bow for that extra "wow" factor.

The Pattern Details

Materials Needed:

  • Yarn: Double Knit (8-ply) — Featured Color: Pastel Blue

  • Hooks: 4mm (Main Body) and 3mm (Border)

  • Tools: Yarn needle, 2 buttons

Abbreviations (US Terms):

  • ch: Chain

  • dc: Double Crochet

  • sc: Single Crochet

  • sl st: Slip Stitch

  • Shell: 3 Double Crochet in the same space

  • Border Shell: 4 Double Crochet in the same space

Follow Video Tutorial:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Size: Newborn (16-17" Chest)

  • Foundation: Ch 42.

  • Row 1: 1 dc in 3rd ch from hook and each st across (40 dc).

  • Row 2 (Setup): Ch 2, dc in 1st st, skip 1, Shell, skip 1. Corner (3dc, ch2, 3dc). Skip 2, Shell, skip 2, Shell, skip 2. Corner. Skip 2, Shell (repeat twice). Skip 2. Corner. Skip 2, Shell, skip 2, Shell, skip 2. Corner. Skip 1, Shell, skip 1, dc in last st.

  • Rows 3-6: Repeat Row 3 (Shells in spaces, Corners in corners).

  • Row 7 (Joining): Work shells to corner. In corner, Shell, ch 3, skip sleeve stitches to 2nd corner. Shell in 2nd corner. Repeat for second sleeve.

  • Sleeves: Work 15 rows of granny shells.

Size: 0-3 Months

  • Foundation: Ch 48.

  • Row 1: 1 dc in 3rd ch from hook and each st across (46 dc).

  • Row 2 (Setup): Ch 2, dc in 1st st, skip 1, Shell, skip 2. Corner. Skip 2, Shell, skip 2, Shell, skip 3. Corner. Skip 2, Shell (repeat 3 times). Skip 2. Corner. Skip 3, Shell, skip 2, Shell, skip 2. Corner. Skip 2, Shell, skip 1, dc in last st.

  • Yoke: Repeat Row 3 until you reach 7 rows.

  • Sleeves: Work 16 rows of granny shells.

Size: 3-6 Months

  • Foundation: Ch 54.

  • Row 1: 1 dc in 3rd ch from hook and each st across (52 dc).

  • Row 2 (Setup): Ch 2, dc in 1st st, skip 1, Shell, skip 1, Shell, skip 1. Corner. Skip 2, Shell (repeat 3 times), skip 1. Corner. Skip 2, Shell (repeat 4 times), skip 1. Corner. Skip 1, Shell, skip 2 (repeat 3 times). Corner. Skip 1, Shell, skip 1, Shell, skip 1, dc in last st.

  • Yoke: Repeat Row 3 until you reach 8 rows.

  • Sleeves: Work 17 rows of granny shells.

Size: 6-12 Months

  • Foundation: Ch 60.

  • Row 1: 1 dc in 3rd ch from hook and each st across (58 dc).

  • Row 2 (Setup): Ch 2, dc in 1st st, skip 1, Shell, skip 2, Shell, skip 1. Corner. Skip 2, Shell (repeat 3 times), skip 2. Corner. Skip 2, Shell (repeat 4 times), skip 3. Corner. Skip 2, Shell (repeat 3 times), skip 2. Corner. Skip 1, Shell, skip 2, Shell, skip 1, dc in last st.

  • Yoke: Repeat Row 3 until you reach 9 rows.

  • Sleeves: Work 18 rows of granny shells.

Finishing the Border (All Sizes)

Using your 3mm hook, work the Border Shell (4 dc) in spaces and sc in the center of the shells below. Follow the neckline and front edges carefully, adding a 2dc, ch2, 2dc corner at the neck to create your buttonhole. Finish with your pearl buttons and a handmade bow!

Happy Crocheting! If you make this bolero, tag me in your photos—I would love to see your color choices!

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