Valley Yarns Bryant Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Valley Yarns Bryant Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Bryant Cardigan is a sophisticated open-stitch crochet cardigan designed by Kirsten Hipsky. This garment features a lacy, elegant construction available in six finished sizes ranging from 32 inches to 52 inches. The cardigan showcases an airy aesthetic created through strategic use of fan stitch motifs and chain spaces, making it an ideal layering piece for warm-weather wear.

Construction and Techniques

The Bryant Cardigan employs a seamless, worked-flat construction method that sets it apart from traditionally seamed cardigans. The body is worked sideways in one continuous piece, with the starting chain running strategically down the center back. This innovative approach eliminates the need for seaming the body panels together, resulting in a smooth, professional finish.

After the main body is complete, straight sleeves are picked up directly from the armholes and crocheted downward, further simplifying the assembly process. This technique reduces finishing work while maintaining structural integrity and a polished appearance.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The cardigan features a primary lace stitch pattern that creates its signature open, airy aesthetic. The Main Body Pattern Stitch is based on a multiple of 6 stitches plus 2, utilizing a combination of fundamental crochet stitches:

• Single crochet (sc): Used as anchor stitches that structure the pattern and create definition
• Double crochet (dc): Forms the decorative fan motifs that give the cardigan its distinctive lacy appearance
• Chain stitches (ch): Create the open spaces between stitch groups, contributing to the lightweight, breathable quality

The pattern repeats Rows 2 and 3 after the initial setup row, creating a consistent fan-and-anchor rhythm throughout. Each fan consists of three double crochets separated by chain-1 spaces, worked into single crochet stitches. This creates a visually striking geometric pattern while maintaining the cardigan's elegant drape.

Materials and Gauge

The Bryant Cardigan pattern calls for Valley Yarns Colrain Lace, a luxurious blend of 50% Merino wool and 50% Tencel. Two cones are required, providing 1,540 yards and 8.8 ounces of yardage—sufficient for all six sizes. This fiber blend offers both breathability and subtle sheen, enhancing the sophisticated appearance of the lace pattern.

The recommended hook size is US size G7 (4.50mm), though adjustments may be necessary to achieve the specified gauge. The pattern calls for approximately 24 stitches and 12 rows equaling 4 inches in the main body pattern stitch after blocking. Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions and ensuring the cardigan drapes as intended.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns and construction methods. The sideways construction and lace pattern require attention to stitch placement and pattern repetition, while the seamless approach rewards careful work with a professionally finished garment.