Dylan’s Cardigan

Time for a basic, simple pattern that can be worked up in a weekend. This is a beginner-friendly pattern, but even advanced crocheters will enjoy how easily these cardigan comes together.

Let’s get into it!

Yarn: DK, lightweight yarn #3

Hook: 5.5 mm

Pattern Notes:

Please note that these are the pattern notes straight from the written pattern, which you can purchase below. The PDF pattern includes photos, sizing notes and a sizing chart. You can buy just the sizing chart, if you don’t want the full written pattern.

Yarn and hook: As far as yarn selection is concerned, you are welcome (and totally encouraged) to try this pattern using different weights. This is a measurement-based pattern, so you don’t have to worry about stitch counts or gauge at all! That said, if you use a different weight, such as a #4 medium, or even a chunky yarn, you will need to try out different hook sizes to determine which one creates a fabric you like. My suggestion is to try the recommended hook size on your yarn label, then go from there. Try a larger hook to space out the stitching, or a smaller hook to make a tighter-knit project. The possibilities are endless!

I used 8 skeins of Tweed Twinkles by Knit Pal to create the pink cardigan you see in the pattern photos. Please note, that this was crocheted for a 6-year old, so the amount of yarn you might require for your desired size will vary. 

 You can find the yarn specs for Tweed Twinkles below:

87 yds. / 50 g. 

Acrylic and Polyester blend

This yarn is available on Amazon (I’ll link it below), and comes with 8 skeins, for a total of 696 yds / 400 g.
https://amzn.to/3mLsijf

Construction: The first thing you will crochet is the back panel, where your initial chain will measure your desired sweater width. This will be measurement A (width) on your sizing chart. Each row adds to the shoulder-to-hip measurement of the cardigan (measurements B + D) .

Once you complete the full back part of the cardigan, you will add front panels, followed by the sleeves. You’ll then need to sew the sides shut before adding the hem and the trim along the front and collar of the cardigan. 

General Notes: You can crochet this cardigan using your own measurements or by using the sizing chart provided with the pattern as a separate PDF. Additional notes about adjustments and measurements will be found throughout the pattern as they become relevant. 

The most important thing to remember about this pattern is that you can adjust it to fit your needs. Don’t be afraid to make a longer sweater, to widen the shoulder panels, or even to add pockets. This pattern is just a guide to help you along the way, but never forget that you are the artist. Make it your own and have fun!

 If you are crocheting this pattern for yourself, try it on as you work and make any necessary adjustments before moving on to different sections, as this pattern builds on itself. I often get questions regarding pattern adjustments, especially for adult sizes, and that’s truly the first thing I ask them: have you tried it on? It’s much easier to make adjustments as you go, rather than completing the pattern only to find out you didn’t make a wide enough shoulder panel and the cardigan barely fits.