Bali Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Bali Cardigan in Berroco Vera

What Is Being Made

The Bali Cardigan is an intermediate-level crochet cardigan designed by Alison Green. This garment is available in ten sizes ranging from extra-small through extra-large, with finished bust measurements from 31 inches to 68 inches (78.5 cm to 172.5 cm) and lengths from 11¼ inches to 18¼ inches (28.5 cm to 46.5 cm). The cardigan features an overlapped front closure and is designed to be worn with approximately 0–2 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Technique

The Bali Cardigan uses a strategic construction method that maximizes efficiency and creates a seamless garment. The waist tie is worked first as a separate component, establishing the foundation for the piece. The body is then worked from the waistband upward in one continuous piece, with stitches cast on for the sleeves as the knitter progresses. Once the body and sleeves reach the required length, the top of the sleeves are joined together using the three-needle bind-off technique, which creates a strong, neat seam at the shoulder. Finally, the cuffs are picked up from the existing stitches and worked in the round to complete the sleeve edges.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Bali Cardigan features two primary stitch patterns. The main fabric is worked in Pattern Stitch using the largest needles, which creates the primary texture and drape of the cardigan. Garter Stitch, worked on the smallest needles, is used for the cuffs and provides a stretchy, flexible edge. The pattern notes that Garter Stitch gauge is not crucial to match precisely, as this stitch naturally produces a very stretchy fabric that accommodates minor variations.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The Bali Cardigan is designed to be made with Berroco Vera, a yarn that comes in 100-gram balls. The pattern shown features colorway #11518 Aloe. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 2 balls for the smallest size to 6 balls for the largest sizes.

Needles: The pattern requires multiple needle sizes to accommodate different stitch patterns and gauges. A 32-inch circular needle in size 4 (3.5 mm) is used for certain sections, while a size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needle is used for the main fabric worked in Pattern Stitch. A set of double-pointed needles or preferred needles for working small circumferences in size 6 (4 mm) are needed for the cuffs worked in the round.

Gauge Information

Achieving proper gauge is essential for accurate finished measurements. The Pattern Stitch gauge is 17 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked on the largest needle size. The Garter Stitch gauge measures 18 stitches and 46 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked on the smallest needle size. All gauge measurements are taken after blocking the swatch. Knitters are strongly encouraged to check gauge before beginning the project to ensure accurate fit and finished dimensions.

Additional Notions

Beyond yarn and needles, the Bali Cardigan pattern requires stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and construction points, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and any finishing work. The pattern recommends using the specific Berroco Vera yarn called for in the instructions to achieve the intended drape, fit, and finished appearance of the cardigan.