The Simple Method Maggie May Crochet Used to Make Crochet Cardigan

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This easy custom-fit crochet cardigan by Maggie May Crochet is a beginner-friendly layering piece worked in one seamless panel.

With an airy stitch pattern and relaxed drape, this cardigan is ideal for transitional weather or casual comfort. Its measurement-based approach makes it fully adjustable, allowing crocheters to create a perfect personal fit.

Crochet Pattern: Easy Custom-Fit Cardigan

Designer: Maggie May Crochet
Skill Level: Confident Beginner / Intermediate


🧶 Materials Needed

  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Yarn, colorway Spirit or similar #4 medium weight yarn

    • Approx. 328 g used for M/L size

  • Hook: 8 mm crochet hook (US L/11)

  • Other: Scissors, yarn needle, stitch markers, measuring tape


🧵 Pattern Structure – Cardigan Overview

  • Worked sideways: begins at left sleeve cuff, continues through sleeve, front panel, back panel, then right front and right sleeve

  • Open front design — neckline and front opening are shaped using stitch markers and chain additions

  • Custom length/width based on measurements, not stitch counts

  • Seamed at the underarms and sides

  • Finished with a single crochet border around front opening and hem


✅ Construction Steps (Updated Terminology)

1. Left Sleeve

  • Row 1: Chain to 13 in (Maggie used 42 ch). Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across.

  • Row 2: Turn, sc across.

  • Rows 3–11: Begin dc, ch 1, skip 1 pattern repeat (creates mesh texture).

Read more:  This 3D Petal Granny Square Tutorial Turns Yarn Into Beautiful Blooms

2. Front Panel (Left Front)

  • After Row 11, chain for desired cardigan front length (Maggie used 55 ch ≈ 22 in)

  • Turn, work pattern into chain, across sleeve — build up rows until panel is 10 in wide

3. Back Panel

  • Chain same number as front panel at end of last front row, continue pattern

  • Continue until back panel is also 10 in wide

4. Neckline & Second Side

  • Mark center of piece (Maggie had 70 dc across)

  • Work 4-row wide strip at neckline (≈3 in) to create the neck curve

  • Chain across to begin second half of cardigan, mirroring first side

5. Right Front and Right Sleeve

  • Work pattern for matching number of rows

  • Begin decreasing back to sleeve width (21 dc wide)

  • Add 2 rows of sc to finish sleeve cuff

6. Assembly

  • Fold cardigan in half at neck

  • Seam underarms and down sides using slip stitch

  • Add sc border along hem, front opening, and neckline

    • Place 2 sc in corners to round edges

    • Work 1 sc per dc or ch-space


✨ Key Features of This Cardigan Pattern

  • Custom Fit: Based on personal body measurements

  • Minimal Shaping: Ideal for beginners learning garment construction

  • Textured Look: Mesh stitch pattern adds visual interest

  • One-Piece Design: Fewer seams, more consistent finish

Ending

Designed with simplicity and style in mind, this customizable cardigan is a rewarding project for confident beginners and seasoned crocheters alike. The straightforward construction and elegant texture make it a staple garment you’ll want to wear year-round.

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