The Shawl Collar Cozy Crochet Cardigan is a wonderfully versatile piece perfect for layering, featuring convenient pockets and an elegant shawl collar. This cardigan is suitable for all levels of crocheters who want to create a cozy outerwear piece that can be customized to fit their personal style. Whether you’re looking to use heftier yarn for a bulkier cardigan or opt for a lighter weight, this pattern has you covered.
Skill Level
Confident Beginner. This project involves basic crochet stitches, including half double crochet, and simple assembly techniques, making it accessible to those who have a bit of crochet experience.
Materials
- Worsted-weight #4 or bulky #5 yarn
- 6mm crochet hook
- Tapestry needle
- Stitch markers
- Measuring tape
Abbreviations — US Terms
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- sp – space
Special Stitches
Half Double Crochet (hdc)
To work a half double crochet, yarn over, insert the hook into the indicated stitch, yarn over again, pull through the stitch (3 loops on the hook), yarn over once more and pull through all 3 loops on the hook.
Gauge
Gauge is not critical for this project; however, maintaining consistent tension will ensure your cardigan fits as expected.
Finished Size
This cardigan can be tailored to your preferences by adjusting the size of the rectangles to achieve the desired fit. Choose a bust size with 6-8 inches of positive ease for optimal comfort.
Pattern Notes
- The cardigan is worked in rows, creating back and front rectangles, as well as sleeves.
- It is essential to mark the beginning of each row or round when working to keep track of where your transitions occur.
- For pocket construction, you will crochet two simple rectangles that will be sewn onto the lower front of the cardigan for added functionality.
Crochet Instructions
Part 1 – Back Rectangle
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Foundation Chain: Chain enough stitches to achieve your desired width based on your bust size and the 6-8 inches of positive ease. For example, your chain could start at around 60-70 stitches if using worsted-weight yarn.
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Row 1: Hdc in the second chain from the hook. Work an hdc across the foundation chain. (Total: hdc stitches equal to your foundation chain – 1)
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Rows 2 and Onward: Turn your work. Ch 1. Hdc in each stitch across. Repeat this row until your piece measures your desired hip length.
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Finish: Fasten off and weave in ends.
Part 2 – Front Rectangles
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Foundation Chain: Repeat the steps for the back rectangle for your first front rectangle (make this piece the same width as the back).
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Row 1: Work the same as for the back rectangle.
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Rows 2 and Onward: Continue until you reach the same length as your back rectangle.
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Finish: Fasten off and weave in ends.
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Repeat for the second front rectangle.
Part 3 – Sleeves
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Foundation Chain: For each sleeve, chain enough stitches for the desired width, usually around 20-30 stitches.
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Row 1: Hdc in the second chain from the hook, then hdc to the end.
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Rows 2 and Onward: Repeat until you reach your desired sleeve length. You can opt for straight sleeves or slightly taper them by adjusting stitch counts for each row.
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Finish: Fasten off and weave in ends.
Part 4 – Assembly
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Joining Shoulders: Align the two front rectangles to the back and use slip stitches or a tapestry needle to seam the shoulders together.
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Attaching Sleeves: Position each sleeve to the armholes and seam together using slip stitches or whip stitches.
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Seaming Sides: Fold the cardigan in half and seam from the underarm down to the hem on both sides.
Part 5 – Pockets
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Crochet Pockets: Chain 30 stitches for each pocket, then work hdc for 7-9 inches in height. Repeat to make a second pocket.
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Attachment: Pin each pocket to the lower front rectangles and sew securely.
Part 6 – Shawl Collar
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Starting the Collar: With the cardigan assembled, join your yarn at the lower edge of one front rectangle.
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Row 1: Work hdc evenly up the first front, around the back neck, and down the opposite front, ensuring you don’t twist the collar.
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Rows 2 and Onward: Turn your work and continue to hdc back across this long row, building a continuous band approximately 4-6 inches deep.
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Occasional Short Rows: To give more width for a comfortable fit around the neck, add short rows across the back neck section as needed, while maintaining the straight front bands.
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Finish: The finished band should drape outward naturally, forming a shawl collar without any additional buttons or hoods.
Tips for the Best Result
- Use stitch markers when working the shawl collar to help with the placement of each row.
- Pay attention to the tension and the way the collar folds; adjusting as necessary helps achieve the desired drape.
- If you’re unsure about shoulder joins, take the time to double-check alignment before securing seams.
For more styling ideas, consider exploring this lighter mesh crochet cardigan pattern for different yarn textures and styles that also feature practical pockets.
Common Mistakes
Uneven Stitch Counts
When transitioning between different pieces or sections of the cardigan, try to keep consistent tension. This will help prevent any discrepancies in size and fit once assembled.
Collar Not Laying Flat
If your shawl collar is not lying correctly, check your short rows’ placement and ensure that the stitches are evenly distributed along your neckline before completing the band.
Project Ideas or Variations
Enhance your crochet repertoire by experimenting with this design. Create a similar cardigan for different seasons, or modify the length to make a cropped version. You can also decorate the pockets or incorporate stitch patterns from other projects, like the ones found in this long everyday crochet duster cardigan.
Finishing
- Weave in all ends, ensuring that secured threads do not show on the outer fabric.
- Consider blocking your cardigan to help set the stitches and shape.
Care
When washing, follow the yarn’s care instructions, usually indicating gentle cycle and cold water. Avoid bleach and high heat to maintain the integrity of your yarn.
Incorporate this cozy cardigan into your wardrobe and enjoy the warmth and style it brings, making it a definitive staple for any season!
