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Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern
4.3β˜… Rating
5-7 Hours Time Needed
3.0K Made This
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Intermediate Level

Iο»Ώdeal for those with basic crochet experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

⏱️

Weekend Treat

Takes 5-7 hours, making it an enjoyable project to finish over a couple of days.

πŸ‘•

Casual Chic

Relaxed style with a modern twist, perfect for everyday wear while maintaining that handcrafted uniqueness.

About This Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

This pattern creates a cosy, top-down baby cardigan worked in one piece with set-in sleeves added after dividing for armholes. It is sized from preemie through toddler and written in US terms with UK equivalents noted. Special features include a separate button/buttonhole band, optional shell or ruffle edging and space for appliques.

Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

The cardigan is worked flat from the top down, then the sleeves are made separately and sewn in. Button bands and edging options are included to finish the project beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it balances simplicity with room for creativityβ€”you can keep it classic or add colourful appliques and trims. I enjoy the top-down construction since it lets me try it on as I go and adjust length easily. The buttonhole band and optional shell or ruffle edging make the finishing look polished and professional. It was designed to be friendly for crocheters who know basic stitches but want a satisfying garment project.

Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern step 1 - construction progress Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love how easy it is to change the look by swapping colours; try a neutral body with bright trims for a modern twist.

Want it bigger or smaller? Change your yarn weight and hook size β€” bulky yarn will make a chunky oversized version while lighter yarn makes a dainty small cardigan.

I often add little crochet appliques like rainbows, stars or animals to personalise each piece; use smaller hooks for tidy appliques.

For a dressier finish, choose wooden or decorative buttons and add the shell edging for a vintage look.

To make a matching set, use the same stitch pattern to create a hat or booties using the same DK yarn and colourway.

If you prefer seamless sleeves, you can adapt the pattern to pick up stitches around the armhole and work the sleeve in the round instead of separately.

I sometimes knit a contrast-coloured button band for a different texture; you can also use I-cord for a neat finish.

To adjust fit, try adding or removing repeat rows after the armhole division β€” measuring as you go helps keep proportions right.

For a toddler version, increase the body length by repeating the even-row section until the desired measurement is reached, following the same armhole placement rules.

Don’t be afraid to mix gauges: small adjustments in hook size between body and band can create a lovely stable edge when you change to the 3mm hook for bands.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

βœ— Skipping to the next section without counting your increases can change the chest measurement; always count stitches at the end of each increase row and check against the stitch counts provided. βœ— Not marking your armhole division points will create uneven armholes and mismatched sleeves later on; place markers where the pattern instructs and re-check counts before continuing. βœ— Pulling your tension too tight when switching to a smaller hook for the button band will make the band too tight; use the recommended 3mm hook and relax your tension so the band lies flat. βœ— Forgetting to measure sleeve length as you go can produce sleeves that are too short or too long; repeat the given row until the sleeve measures the stated inches from the shoulder and check regularly.

Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

Make a sweet, simple top-down baby cardigan that you can customise with fun appliques or keep classic. This pattern is written in US terms with UK stitch notes and includes sizes from preemie to 3-4 years. Clear shaping, button band and edging instructions let you finish a polished cardigan you will be proud to gift or sell.

Intermediate 5-7 Hours

Materials Needed for Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

β€” Main Fabric

  • 01
    DK weight (3) yarn - yarnage: Preemie 220 metres
  • 02
    DK weight (3) yarn - yarnage: Newborn 240 metres
  • 03
    DK weight (3) yarn - yarnage: 0-3 Months 260 metres
  • 04
    DK weight (3) yarn - yarnage: 3-6 Months 320 metres
  • 05
    DK weight (3) yarn - yarnage: 6-12 Months 380 metres
  • 06
    DK weight (3) yarn - yarnage: 1-2 Years 450 metres
  • 07
    DK weight (3) yarn - yarnage: 3-4 Years 550 metres

β€” Tools Required

  • 01
    4mm crochet hook
  • 02
    3mm crochet hook (for button band)
  • 03
    2-4mm hooks for appliques
  • 04
    4-6 x 15mm buttons
  • 05
    Stitch markers
  • 06
    Yarn needle for sewing and weaving ends
  • 07
    Scissors
  • 08
    Tape measure
  • 09
    Pins for assembly

Progress Tracker

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β€” Overview :

Info :

This cardigan is worked in one piece starting from the top and working down, then joining to make the sleeves and edging. Keep it simple or make it fun with the included appliques.

Infos :

Gauge With a 4mm hook 9 sc x 9 rows = 2" x 2". Written in English US terms with abbreviations for UK.

β€” Pattern notes and pictures :

Info :

* Working in first stitch the ch1 does not count as a stitch, ch1 and sc in the first stitch *

Info :

Dividing for armholes: Sc the required amount of stitches for the front, skip required amount of stitches, (this will form the first armhole), work the required amount of stitches for the back, skip the required amount of stitches to form the second armhole, sc to the end.

Info :

Sleeves: Start in the first unworked stitch. Place extra stitches under the arm to get the right amount (this prevents a gap under the arm).

β€” Button/Buttonhole Bands All sizes :

Row 1 :

Continuing from body, change to 3mm hook. Button band Row 1: ch1, 1 sc in the same, sc 1 in each row up to the top. Turn.

Row 2 :

Ch1, sc in the same, sc in each stitch back to bottom. Turn.

Row 3 :

Ch1, sc in the same, sc in each stitch back to top. Fasten off.

Row 1 (Buttonhole band) :

With the right side facing, join yarn to the top of the left hand side of the front edge, ch1, 1 sc in the same, 1 sc in each row. Turn. Mark out where you want the button holes, on the next row ch1 and skip the one where the markers are.

Row 2 (Buttonhole band) :

Buttonhole row, Ch1, sc in the same, sc all but ch1 and skip where the markers are to create the buttonholes. Turn.

Row 3 (Buttonhole band) :

Ch1, sc in the same and sc in all, including the chains. Fasten off and sew your buttons on to match the button holes and weave in all ends.

β€” Adding a shell Edging :

Info :

Complete the cardigan and button bands as normal. The Shell edging requires multiples of 6 stitches + 1. I included 3 stitches at the edging at each side, if you don’t have this do a row of single crochet (double UK) first and add stitches to get the right amount.

Instructions :

With the right side facing, join yarn to the bottom right of the cardigan, Ch1, sc in the same, *skip 2, 5 dc in the next, skip 2, sc in the next* repeat to the end. Ch1 and sc in the same, skip the rest of the button band and 5 dc in the first stitch of the cardigan bottom. At the end do the last shell in the last stitch of the cardigan and sc at the end of the button band.

β€” Adding a ruffle Edging :

Info :

You could also add a ruffle edging by completing the cardigan and button bands as normal.

Instructions :

Then join yarn to the bottom right of the cardigan, ch1, dc in the same, 3 dc in each stitch to the last then dc in the last. Fasten off and sew in the ends.

β€” Preemie 4-6lb :

With a 4mm hook Ch39 :

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 4, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 5. (46) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (46) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 5, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6. (54) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (54) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 7. (62) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (62) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (70) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (70) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in next, sc 9. (78) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (78) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (86) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (86) Turn

Row 13 :

(Divide for arm holes) ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, skip 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, skip 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (58) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (58) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 14 until work measures approx 7" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

β€” Preemie Sleeves :

With a 4mm hook Row 1 :

With the wrong side facing join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 21, slst to first. (22) Turn

Rows 2-9 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (22) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (21) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (21) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (20) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (20) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (19) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (19) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 15 until the sleeve measures 7" from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

β€” Newborn :

With a 4mm hook Ch43 :

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 4, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 5. (50) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (50) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 5, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6. (58) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (58) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 7. (66) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (66) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (74) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (74) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (82) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (82) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (90) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (90) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (98) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (98) Turn

Row 15 :

(Divide for arm holes) ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, skip 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, skip 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (62) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (62) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 16 until work measures approx 8" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

β€” Newborn Sleeves :

With a 4mm hook Row 1 :

With the wrong side facing join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 25, slst to first. (26) Turn

Rows 2-9 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (25) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (25) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (24) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (24) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (23) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (23) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (22) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (21) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (21) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 18 until the sleeve measures 8" from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

β€” 0-3 months :

With a 4mm hook Ch47 :

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 5, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, 3 sc in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6. (54) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (54) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, 3 sc in next, sc 7. (62) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (62) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (70) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (70) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (78) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (78) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (86) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (86) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (94) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (94) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (102) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (102) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 28, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (110) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (110) Turn

Row 17 :

Divide for Armholes: ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, skip 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 30, [3 sc] in the next, skip 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14. (70) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (70) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 18 until work measures approx 9" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

β€” 0-3 months Sleeves :

With a 4mm hook Row 1 :

With the wrong side facing, join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 25, slst to first. (26) Turn

Rows 2-7 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (25) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (25) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (24) Turn

Rows 11-12 :

ch1, sc in all, slst to first. (24-23) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (23) Turn

Rows 14-15 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (23) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (22) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 26 until the sleeve measures 11.5 inches from the shoulder for larger sizes as instructed in later sections. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

β€” 3-6 months :

With a 4mm hook Ch51 :

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 7. (58) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (58) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (66) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (66) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (74) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (74) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (82) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (82) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (90) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (90) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (98) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (98) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 28, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (106) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (106) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 30, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, 3 sc in next, sc 14. (114) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (114) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 32, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15. (122) Turn

Row 18 :

(Divide for Armholes) ch1, sc in the same, sc in next 15, [3 sc] in the next, skip 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 34, [3 sc] in the next, skip 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16. (78) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (78) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 19 until work measures approx 10" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

β€” 3-6 months Sleeves :

With a 4mm hook Row 1 :

With right side facing, join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 28, slst to first. (30) Turn

Rows 2-10 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (30) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (29) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (28) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (28) Turn

Rows 15-16 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (27-26) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (26) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 18 until the sleeve measures 9" from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

β€” 6-12 months :

With 4mm hook Ch57 :

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (64) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (64) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (72) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (72) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, 3 sc in next, sc 10. (80) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (80) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (88) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (88) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (96) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (96) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 28, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (104) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (104) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 30, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14. (112) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (112) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 32, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15. (120) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (120) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 34, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16. (128) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (128) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 36, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17. (136) Turn

Row 20 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (136) Turn

Row 21 (Divide for armholes) :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, skip 29, [3 sc] in next, sc 38, [3 sc] in the next, skip 29, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18. (86) Turn

Row 22 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (86) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 22 until work measures approx 11.5" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

β€” 6-12 months Sleeves :

With a 4mm hook Row 1 :

With wrong side facing, join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 32, slst to first. (33) Turn

Rows 2-7 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (33) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (32) Turn

Rows 9-10 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (32) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (30) Turn

Rows 14-15 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (30) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Rows 17-18 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (28) Turn

Rows 20-21 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (28) Turn

Row 22 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (27) Turn

Rows 23-24 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (27) Turn

Row 25 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 26 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (26) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 26 until the sleeve measures 11.5 inches from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

β€” 1-2 Years :

Using a 4mm hook Ch61 :

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in next, sc 9, [3 sc] in next, sc 9. (68) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (68) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in next, sc 10. (76) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (76) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (84) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (84) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (92) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (92) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 28, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (100) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (100) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 30, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14. (108) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (108) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 32, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15. (116) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (116) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 34, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16. (124) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (124) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 36, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17. (132) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (132) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 38, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18. (140) Turn

Row 20 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (140) Turn

Row 21 (Divide for Armholes) :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, skip 31, [3 sc] in the next, sc 42, [3 sc] in the next, skip 31, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20. (94) Turn

Row 22 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (94) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 24 until work measures approximately 12.5" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

β€” Size 3-4 Years :

Using a 4mm hook Ch64 :

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (71) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (71) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (79) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (79) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (87) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (87) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (95) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (95) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 29, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14. (103) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (103) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 31, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15. (111) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (111) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 33, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16. (119) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (119) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 35, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17. (127) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (127) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 36, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17. (132) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (132) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 38, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18. (140) Turn

Row 20 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (140) Turn

Row 21 (Divide for Armholes) :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, skip 31, [3 sc] in the next, sc 42, [3 sc] in the next, skip 31, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20. (94) Turn

Row 22 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (94) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 24 until work measures approximately 12.5" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Fasten off and continue to button band on page 4.

Assembly Instructions

  • Attach button/buttonhole bands: follow the button band instructions on page 4, align the button band to the front edge and sew using whipstitch or mattress stitch, ensuring buttonholes line up with markers.
  • Sew sleeves in place: after completing the sleeve rows and finishing, pin sleeve tops into the armholes evenly and sew in place using a yarn needle and matching yarn with small, neat stitches.
  • Add edging: join yarn at the bottom right, work the shell or ruffle edging as instructed and sew ends securely; pin shells evenly to avoid distortion.
  • Sew buttons: match buttons to buttonholes and sew securely, weaving in ends and hiding yarn tails inside the cardigan.

Important Notes

  • πŸ’‘Use stitch markers to mark where the armholes will be divided and where buttonholes should be placed to ensure accurate placement when finishing.
  • πŸ’‘Work with consistent tension and check gauge before starting; the pattern gauge is 9 sc x 9 rows = 2" x 2" with a 4mm hook.
  • πŸ’‘When changing hooks for the button band (3mm), check the band lies flat and adjust tension to avoid a tight front edge.

This Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern is designed to be friendly and versatile for baby sizes from preemie to 3-4 years. Add playful appliques, colourful buttons, or a pretty shell or ruffle edging to personalise each cardigan. Make one for a new arrival or stitch several in different colours to gift a matching set. πŸ§ΆπŸ’–

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FAQs

What size will the finished piece be?

The pattern includes sizes from Preemie through 3-4 Years; finished measurements vary by size β€” check the size table in the pattern for chest and length details.

Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern?

Yes, but changing yarn weight will affect the final size; adjust your hook size and check gauge to maintain correct measurements.

Do I need prior crochet experience for this pattern?

This pattern is rated intermediate; basic knowledge of single crochet, increases, decreases and working in rows is recommended.

How long does this project typically take to complete?

Most crocheters complete a single baby cardigan in about 5-7 hours, depending on size and finishing details.