Plymouth Yarn Crocheted Cardi Pattern

Plymouth Yarn Crocheted Cardi - Pattern No. 3416

What is Being Made

The Plymouth Yarn Crocheted Cardi is a boxy cardigan sweater crafted using crochet techniques. This garment is available in five sizes ranging from XSmall to XLarge, with finished chest measurements from 34 inches to 50 inches and lengths from 19 inches to 23.5 inches. The cardigan features a classic button-front design with decorative edging along the bottom, front bands, neckline, and sleeves, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up approach, meaning the garment is built starting from the lower edge and working upward. The piece is worked flat rather than in the round, allowing the crocheter to work back and forth in rows. The finished sections are then seamed together to create the complete garment. This traditional construction method provides excellent control over fit and allows for straightforward shaping.

The sleeves are worked separately, beginning at the armhole and extending down to the cuff, which is a common technique for achieving proper sleeve length and fit. The pattern includes decreasing instructions for shaping the garment to fit properly across the chest and shoulders.

Stitches Used

The Plymouth Yarn Crocheted Cardi employs an alternating pattern of two primary crochet stitches:

• Double Crochet (DC): Worked in alternating rows, this stitch creates structure and drape. In double crochet rows, a chain 3 counts as the first double crochet of the row.
• Half Double Crochet (HDC): Alternated with double crochet rows, this stitch provides a slightly tighter fabric. In half double crochet rows, a chain 2 counts as the first half double crochet.

The pattern incorporates chain spaces (CH 1, skip 1) throughout the double crochet rows, creating decorative openwork details along the bottom edge, front bands, neckline, and sleeves. These chain spaces add visual interest while maintaining the structural integrity of the cardigan. The alternating stitch pattern creates a balanced fabric with good drape and flexibility.

Materials

The Plymouth Yarn Crocheted Cardi is designed to be worked with Mojito Merino yarn in color 28 Crimson. The yarn quantity required depends on size: XSmall requires 6 balls, Small requires 7 balls, Medium requires 8 balls, Large requires 9 balls, and XLarge requires 11 balls. Each ball weighs 50 grams.

Mojito Merino is a specialty yarn constructed by combining a thread of nylon with strands of soft merino wool. This blend creates a fabric that is both lofty and firm, making it ideal for structured garments like this boxy cardigan. The nylon component adds durability and helps the yarn hold its shape, while the merino provides softness and breathability. The yarn's unique structure may occasionally make it challenging to identify exactly where to insert the hook, but the forgiving nature of the yarn means minor variations in stitch placement are not visible in the finished fabric.

The pattern calls for a J-10 (6mm) crochet hook. The recommended gauge is 13 half double crochets and 10 rows in pattern, which should measure 4 inches when worked with the specified hook and yarn. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper finished measurements and fit of the cardigan.