Kailua Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Kailua Cardigan in Berroco Chai

What Is Being Made

The Kailua Cardigan is a crocheted cardigan sweater designed by Alison Green. This garment is available in ten different sizes, ranging from 38 inches to 74 inches in bust measurement (closed), with finished lengths varying from 18 inches to 22.5 inches. The cardigan shown in the pattern is made in size 46 inches and features a sophisticated construction suitable for intermediate-level crocheters.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This cardigan employs intermediate crochet techniques to create a polished, wearable garment. The pattern uses a combination of foundational stitches and decorative stitch work to achieve its finished appearance. The construction involves working multiple pieces that are assembled together, with careful attention to gauge and shaping to ensure proper fit across the range of available sizes.

The pattern incorporates special abbreviations including Dc2tog, a double crochet decrease stitch that is worked by inserting the hook into two separate stitches and completing the decrease in a single motion. This technique helps create shaping and tailored details throughout the garment.

Stitches Used

• Double crochet (dc) – The primary stitch forming the base fabric of the cardigan
• Double crochet decrease (Dc2tog) – Used for shaping and creating fitted details by working two stitches together
• Chain stitches (ch) – Incorporated into the pattern stitch panel to create openwork and decorative elements

Pattern Stitch Details

The Kailua Cardigan features a Pattern Stitch Panel that is worked over a base of 21 double crochet stitches and measures 3¾ inches wide. This panel creates visual interest through a combination of double crochet stitches and chain-3 spaces. The set-up row establishes the pattern by working double crochets, strategic skips, and decorative [dc, ch 3, dc] clusters that form the signature texture of this design. Subsequent rows build upon this foundation using the Dc2tog decrease stitch to create shaping and maintain the pattern's integrity.

Yarn and Materials

The Kailua Cardigan is designed to be made with Berroco Chai, a yarn that comes in 50-gram balls. The pattern calls for color #8635 Grenadine. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 9 balls for the smallest size (38 inches) to 19 balls for the largest size (74 inches).

The pattern recommends using a size E / 3.5 mm crochet hook and includes stitch markers among the notions needed to complete the project. Berroco specifically recommends using the yarn called for in the instructions to ensure accurate gauge and finished measurements.

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 19 double crochet stitches and 9 rows equals 4 inches (10 cm) when worked with the recommended hook and yarn. The Pattern Stitch Panel should measure 3¾ inches (9.5 cm) in width. The pattern recommends taking time to check gauge before beginning to ensure accurate finished measurements and proper fit.

The cardigan is designed with 4–6 inches of positive ease (5–10 cm), meaning the finished bust measurement will be larger than the wearer's actual bust measurement for a comfortable, relaxed fit. This ease allows for comfortable wearing and movement while maintaining the cardigan's intended silhouette.

Pattern Information

This pattern uses US crochet terminology throughout. The Kailua Cardigan is classified as an Intermediate