Description

Bonnie is a much-loved 1940s-style cropped lace sweater knitting pattern.  Mitred darts through the rib create or emphasise waist definition.  She offers a sophisticated cropped silhouette that provides that elusive balance: feminine charm without the fuss.  The knitting flows beautifully because the lace pattern is intuitive and all WS rows are purled.

Lace chevron stripes gracefully transition to an eyelet yoke, and bands of stocking stitch grant you time off for good behaviour!  The logic of the design shines in the graceful transition from lace chevron stripes into a clean eyelet yoke, separated by bands of stocking stitch that provide structural stability and a moment of rest.

Feminine styling without fussy details

A favourite among the Natalie in Stitches community, Bonnie is often a multi-knit project — a testament to the satisfaction found in a pattern that respects both your skill and your shape.  There is a reason Bonnie remains a staple on so many needles, and has done since 2017; the pattern settles into a predictable, intuitive flow that makes it the perfect ‘guaranteed success’ project for your next holiday or a busy season of life.

This summer top is ideal for styling with dresses, skirts and high-waisted trousers.  I have modelled Bonnie with negative ease at the chest and waist, and positive ease at the upper arm.

However, you can change the fit depending on your style preferences.  Choose a closer fit to wear Bonnie over sundresses and bare arms, or allow some positive ease to wear over short sleeves.  It is entirely up to you!

Please see the schematic and measurements chart for further details on sizing.

Special techniques for the Bonnie cropped sweater pattern include:

• lace increases and decreases (yo, ssk, k2tog, sk2po/sl1-k2tog-psso), centred double decrease (CDD)
• You can see a tutorial on how to work the central double decrease here on YouTube.

Yarn options for the Bonnie cropped sweater

The sample was knitted in DY Choice Cotton Fresh DK.  That said, Bonnie suits a variety of fibres and wool is also an excellent choice.  Keep an eye on your fabric tension if you plan to use linen or silk yarns.  You may need to go down a needle size or two so that the sweater holds its shape.

What’s included with the Bonnie knitting pattern?

After checking out, you’ll be emailed a digital PDF file of the Bonnie knitting pattern.  If you also chose to create an account, the pattern will be stored in your account area for safekeeping.  I recommend downloading the pattern immediately and saving it to your chosen computer or device for safekeeping.

You then have the choice of either printing out the pattern or reading it from your mobile device – whichever suits you best.  And if you get stuck along the way, you can contact me anytime via email!

What happens after I purchase the Bonnie cropped sweater knitting pattern?

You’ll receive more tutorials and styling ideas after purchasing Bonnie, so keep an eye on your inbox!  You can also email me with questions not covered here or in the follow-up emails.

If you’ve been looking for a cropped lace sweater knitting pattern for the summer months, Bonnie’s your girl.