Universal Yarn Perimeter Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Universal Yarn Perimeter Cardigan

What Is Being Made

The Perimeter is a crochet cardigan designed by Rachel Brockman, intended to be worn open with a relaxed, oversized fit. This garment features a contemporary take on traditional scalloped edging, updated with modern color choices. The cardigan is available in six sizes ranging from Extra Small/Small through 4X, with finished back widths from 17¾ inches to 29½ inches and lengths from 24 to 27½ inches. The piece is specifically designed as an excellent first crochet garment, making it accessible for beginners while remaining visually interesting for experienced crafters.

Construction and Techniques

The Perimeter cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, worked-flat approach, meaning the body is created from the bottom edge upward in flat rows rather than in the round. The garment features seamed construction, with pieces worked separately and then joined together. The design incorporates lace elements through its signature scalloped pattern, which creates an open, airy aesthetic perfect for a spring garment.

The body and sleeves begin with a striped chain foundation worked in multiple colors, establishing visual interest from the very beginning. The main body is then continued upward in a single color using straightforward stitch techniques. Minimal shaping is required for this boxy silhouette—the only shaping occurs at the front neck, making the construction process simple and forgiving for newer crocheters.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Perimeter utilizes fundamental crochet stitches that build confidence in beginners:

• Single Crochet (SC) – Used in alternating rows to create a dense, stable fabric
• Double Crochet (DC) – Worked in alternating rows with single crochet to create texture and drape
• Alternating SC/DC Pattern – The primary stitch pattern for the body, alternating rows of single crochet and double crochet to achieve a balanced fabric that measures 4 inches across 16 stitches and 11 rows at gauge
• Scallops Pattern – A decorative lace stitch that updates the traditional scallop motif with modern sensibility. This pattern is worked over a multiple of 12 chains plus 5, creating approximately 2½-inch-wide scallop repeats. The scallops are formed using skip stitches and clustered double crochets (5 double crochets in a single stitch) to create the characteristic curved, shell-like edges

Materials and Yarn

The Perimeter is designed to be worked in Fibra Natura Lina, a linen-cotton blend yarn composed of 68% linen and 32% cotton. This fiber content is ideal for a spring cardigan, offering breathability, drape, and a natural, textured appearance. The yardage is 252 yards per 100-gram skein.

The pattern calls for a main color (MC) in Sterling, requiring 5 to 9 skeins depending on size. Three contrast colors (CC1, CC2, and CC3) are used for the striped foundation chain and decorative elements: Amaranth, Lavandula, and Bright Dahlia. One skein of each contrast color is sufficient for all sizes, allowing crafters to introduce pops of color throughout the piece.

Tools and Notions

The Perimeter is worked on a US Size E-4 (3.5 mm) crochet hook, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. A tapestry needle is required for weaving in ends and seaming the pieces together. The pattern recommends checking gauge before beginning, as proper gauge ensures the finished measurements match the schematic and the garment drapes as intended.

Design Features

The cardigan's most distinctive feature is its scalloped lace edging, which provides visual interest and movement while maintaining the simplicity of the construction. The color-blocked striped beginning creates a striking foundation, and the choice to work the body in a single color allows the scallop pattern to become the focal point. The oversized, boxy silhouette and open-front design make this an easy-to-wear piece that works well layered over other garments, making it versatile for spring and transitional seasons.