Crocheting your own cardigan isn’t just about crafting something warm — it’s about creating something that’s 100% handmade, fits like a dream, and reflects your personal style. If you’ve ever looked at a rack of sweaters and thought, “I wish this came in my favorite color,” or “If only this fit me better,” then this project is for you.
In this blog, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to make your very own easy crochet women’s cardigan. This pattern is designed to be beginner-friendly, stylish, and customizable. You’ll learn how to measure for your size, choose yarn and hooks, crochet the main panels, shape the sleeves, assemble the garment, and even add your own personal touches.
Whether you’re sitting down to make your very first cardigan or just want a cozy new addition to your wardrobe, this guide will walk you through every loop and stitch along the way.
Why Crochet a Cardigan?
Cardigans are classic, versatile wardrobe staples. They can be dressed up or down, layered through the seasons, and customized to fit your style perfectly. But there’s something extra special about a handmade cardigan:
- You control the fit — no more awkward shoulders or sleeves that are too short.
- You choose the yarn, colors, and texture.
- You get the satisfaction of creating something wearable from scratch.
- It’s a great confidence-building project for beginners.
This particular pattern is constructed using simple rectangles, minimal shaping, and basic stitches, making it an ideal project for those who are new to garment-making.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you start crocheting, gather the right tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
Yarn
Choose a yarn that is soft, wearable, and machine washable. You want your cardigan to be comfortable and easy to care for.
Recommended yarn weight: Worsted weight (Category 4) or light bulky (Category 5) for a faster finish and cozy feel.
Yardage estimate:
- XS–S: 1200–1400 yards
- M–L: 1400–1600 yards
- XL–2XL: 1600–1800 yards
- 3XL–4XL: 1800–2000+ yards
Fiber suggestions:
- Cotton blends for warmer weather
- Acrylic for affordability and easy care
- Wool blends for extra warmth and breathability
Hook
Use the recommended hook size listed on your yarn’s label. Most worsted weight yarns work well with a 5.0 mm (H-8) or 5.5 mm (I-9) crochet hook. Gauge swatching is key, which we’ll talk about shortly.
Other Supplies
- Yarn needle (for seaming and weaving in ends)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Stitch markers (optional but helpful)
- Buttons or toggles (if you want to add closures)
Sizing and Fit
This pattern uses simple rectangular construction to create the back, front, and sleeves. Because of its relaxed fit, it’s forgiving in size and easy to customize.
Here’s a rough sizing chart for a loose, open-front fit:
| Size | Bust (inches) | Finished Width |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 28–30 | 36″ |
| S | 32–34 | 38″ |
| M | 36–38 | 42″ |
| L | 40–42 | 46″ |
| XL | 44–46 | 50″ |
| 2XL | 48–50 | 54″ |
| 3XL | 52–54 | 58″ |
| 4XL | 56–58 | 62″ |
If you like an oversized cardigan, size up one level. For a snugger fit, go down one.
Gauge Swatch (Don’t Skip This!)
Crochet gauge is essential for garments. Even a small discrepancy can drastically change the final fit.
Gauge swatch pattern:
- Chain 18.
- Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook and across. (15 dc)
- Row 2–6: Ch 3, turn, dc across.
Measure your swatch. You want:
- 4 inches = 14 dc stitches
- 4 inches = 7 dc rows
If your swatch is too large, go down a hook size. Too small? Try a larger hook.
Stitches Used
You don’t need to know any advanced techniques — just the basics!
- Chain (ch)
- Slip stitch (sl st)
- Double crochet (dc)
- Single crochet (sc) (optional for finishing)
Now, let’s get to the actual cardigan construction.
Construction Overview
This cardigan is made in five flat panels:
- Back panel
- Two front panels
- Two sleeves
These pieces are seamed together and then finished with optional edging or ribbing.
You’ll start by working the back panel, then mirror that with two front panels. The sleeves are crocheted flat and sewn onto the armholes. No shaping for the front or back, just straight rectangles!
Let’s get started with the back panel.
Back Panel
This is the widest and longest panel and forms the foundation of the cardigan.
Pattern (Medium size — adjust width as needed)
- Chain 72 (or adjust based on your width goal — see chart above; each 4″ = 14 dc)
- Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each st across. Turn.
- Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc across. Turn.
- Repeat Row 2 until panel measures desired length:
- Crop: 18″
- Hip-length: 24″
- Long/Coat: 30″
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Front Panels (Make 2)
Each front panel is half the width of the back panel, minus 2 stitches for the middle seam gap (for the open front).
Pattern (Medium size example)
- Chain 34.
- Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each st across. Turn.
- Row 2: Ch 3, dc across. Turn.
- Repeat until same length as the back panel.
Repeat for the second front panel. Weave in ends.
Optional modification: For a V-neck look, you can decrease one stitch at the beginning of each row for the last 5″ of length. This will angle the neckline slightly.
Sleeves (Make 2)
Crocheted as rectangles, these sleeves are shaped by seaming later.
Pattern
- Chain 38 for a slightly wide sleeve (adjust for desired width).
- Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook and across. Turn.
- Row 2: Ch 3, dc across. Turn.
- Repeat until the sleeve measures 18″–22″ depending on your preferred length.
Optional: Add increases by chaining extra stitches at the ends of rows to create a bell sleeve.
Assembly
Lay out your pieces flat on a clean surface.
Step-by-Step Assembly
- Join shoulders: Lay front panels on the back panel. Sew or slip stitch the top edges together for about 4–6 inches from each edge, leaving a neck opening in the center.
- Attach sleeves: Center each sleeve along the side edges. Sew or slip stitch the top edge of the sleeve to the armhole opening.
- Seam sides: Fold the cardigan so that the front panels meet the back. Sew up the side seams and the underside of each sleeve.
- Try it on! Make any needed adjustments before weaving in ends fully.
Optional Edging and Customizations
You can leave your cardigan as-is for a relaxed, raw-edge look. Or add finishing touches like:
Ribbed Collar and Hem
- Attach yarn to the bottom edge or neckline.
- Row 1: Ch 8, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. Sl st into next 2 stitches of cardigan.
- Row 2: Turn, sc in back loops only, ch 1, repeat.
- Continue this ribbing around the neckline, bottom, and cuffs.
Button Band
- Work 2–3 rows of sc along the front opening.
- Mark evenly spaced buttonholes on one side using ch spaces.
- Sew on buttons using yarn needle.
Decorative Stitching
- Add contrast color whip stitching along seams.
- Try crab stitch edging (reverse single crochet) for a unique look.
Pockets
- Make 4″x5″ rectangles in dc stitch.
- Sew to front panels where your hands naturally rest.
Washing and Blocking
To finish your cardigan professionally:
- Weave in all ends securely.
- Soak or spray block your finished cardigan.
- Lay flat to dry, shaping panels as needed.
Blocking relaxes stitches and improves the overall drape of the cardigan.
Video Tutorial:
Final Thoughts and Variations
You did it! You created your own cozy, handmade cardigan with nothing more than yarn, a hook, and your own two hands. Whether you used neutral tones for a classic look, or went bold with stripes or variegated yarn, you now have a completely unique piece of clothing made with love.
And this is only the beginning. Once you’ve mastered this basic cardigan, you can explore more advanced variations:
- Add lace panels or cables
- Try a hooded version
- Use granny squares for a retro style
- Play with color blocking or striping
The beauty of crochet is that your skills — and your wardrobe — can keep growing with you.
If you enjoyed this pattern, consider making another in a different yarn or size, or gifting one to a friend or loved one. Handmade cardigans are cherished gifts, and your time and effort are part of what make them so special.
Happy crocheting, and may your yarn always bring you warmth and joy!
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