Breton Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Breton Cardigan in Berroco Modern Linen

What is Being Made

The Breton Cardigan is a crocheted cardigan sweater designed by Alison Green. This garment is available in ten sizes ranging from extra-small (29½" bust) to 3X-large (65" bust), with finished length measurements varying from 19½" to 22½" depending on size. The cardigan is shown in size 3 (36¾" bust) and is modeled with approximately 3" of positive ease, though the pattern recommends 4–6" of positive ease for a comfortable fit.

Construction Method

The Breton Cardigan uses a practical one-piece construction technique. The body is worked in one continuous piece from the bottom up to the underarm level, after which the piece is divided to create separate sections for the back and front panels. Once the body is complete, sleeves are crocheted separately and then sewn to the body using a tapestry needle, a common finishing method in crochet garment construction.

Crochet Stitches and Techniques

This intermediate-level project features a custom pattern stitch worked over a multiple of 14 double crochet stitches plus 3 additional stitches. The pattern stitch combines fundamental crochet techniques including double crochet (dc), chain stitches (ch), and strategic skipping of stitches to create texture and shaping. The gauge for this pattern is 18 stitches and 8 rows measured over 4 inches in double crochet and the pattern stitch after blocking, which is essential for achieving accurate finished measurements.

Yarn and Materials

• Yarn: Berroco Modern Linen, 100 grams per hank. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 3 hanks for the smallest sizes to 6 hanks for the largest sizes. The pattern calls for color #11394 Atrium White.
• Hook: Size F-5 (3.75 mm) crochet hook, or the size needed to obtain the specified gauge.
• Notions: A tapestry needle is required for seaming the sleeves to the body.

Yarn Characteristics

Berroco Modern Linen is a linen-based yarn that provides structure and drape suitable for a cardigan. The pattern emphasizes the importance of checking gauge after blocking, as blocking can affect the final measurements and fit of the finished garment. Using the exact yarn specified in the pattern instructions is recommended to ensure accurate gauge and proper garment construction.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with custom stitch patterns and multi-piece garment construction techniques.