This top down crochet cardigan is an easy, beginner friendly pattern with 3 sleeve options. The Spring Cardi is sure to be a wardrobe staple for the changing seasons. It’s crocheted with almost all double crochets. It works up fast and easy. The Spring Cardi is a fabulous beginner crochet cardigan, even if you haven’t made any garments before.

Spring Cardi is a seamless, top-down raglan crochet cardigan worked almost entirely in double crochet, making it an ideal first garment project for beginner crocheters ready to move beyond accessories. With 9 inclusive sizes and three sleeve options, it layers effortlessly through every seasonal transition.

Construction and technique

• Construction: top-down, seamless, worked in the round with raglan shaping
• Neckline: ballet neck for a relaxed, flattering opening
• Sleeve options: choose from short, 3/4 length, or long raglan sleeves
• Primary stitch: double crochet throughout
• Fit: positive ease for a comfortable, layerable drape

Materials

• Yarn: DK weight; sample shown in Knit Picks Swish DK
• Yardage: 853 to 2,286 yards depending on size
• Hooks: 4mm (US G/6) for body; 3.5mm (US E/4) for finishing
• Gauge: 14 sts x 9 rows = 4 inches in double crochet
• Terminology: US crochet terms

Sizing

• Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X
• To fit bust: 31, 34, 38, 42, 46, 51, 54, 56, 60 inches
• Fit range: petite through plus sizes

What’s included

• Written pattern instructions in US crochet terminology
• All three sleeve length options in a single pattern
• English language PDF, available as an instant download
• Pattern also available free at christacodesign.com

Because the body is built almost entirely from double crochets, the Spring Cardi works up quickly and reads easily row by row, even for makers attempting their first crochet garment. It is a wardrobe-ready layer from early spring through autumn.

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