RIBBED CROCHET CARDIGAN

A ribbed crochet cardigan is a cozy and versatile garment that you can create using basic crochet stitches. It features ribbing, which gives it a textured and stretchy appearance. Here’s a general guide on how to crochet a ribbed cardigan:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Crochet hooks (sizes will depend on your yarn and desired gauge)
2. Worsted weight or bulky yarn (amount will depend on your size and desired length)
3. Scissors
4. Tapestry needle
5. Buttons or other closures (optional)

Step 1: Gauge and Measurements Start by creating a gauge swatch using your chosen yarn and hook. This will help determine the number of stitches and rows needed to achieve the desired size and fit. Measure your chest circumference, arm length, and desired cardigan length to guide your sizing decisions.

Step 2: Back Panel Begin by crocheting the back panel of the cardigan. This is typically a rectangle that will cover the back of your body. Start with a foundation chain that matches the desired width of your back, accounting for the ribbing pattern.

For the ribbing, you can use a combination of single crochet (sc) and back loop only (BLO) stitches. Alternate between working in the BLO and regular stitches for each row to create the ribbed effect. Continue crocheting in this pattern until you reach the desired length, ending with a right side row.

Step 3: Front Panels Create two identical front panels that will cover each side of your chest. The width of each panel will depend on your desired fit. Follow the same ribbing pattern as the back panel.

To create the neckline and armholes, you’ll need to shape the front panels. Decrease stitches gradually along the edges to form the sloping lines. This can be achieved by skipping stitches or working decreases. Refer to your gauge and measurements to determine the shaping details.

Step 4: Sleeves Crochet two sleeves separately. Start with a foundation chain that matches the desired width of your arm at the cuff, accounting for the ribbing pattern. Work in the ribbing pattern, increasing stitches evenly throughout the rows until you reach the desired width for your upper arm.

Continue crocheting without increasing until the sleeve reaches your desired length. You can make full-length sleeves or adjust them to a shorter length.

Step 5: Assembly Once all the individual pieces are complete, it’s time to assemble the cardigan. Lay the back panel flat and attach the front panels to each side, matching the shoulders and sides. Seam the pieces together using a tapestry needle and yarn.

Next, attach the sleeves to the armholes of the front and back panels. Seam them in place, making sure the ribbing aligns with the body of the cardigan.

Step 6: Finishing Touches To complete your ribbed crochet cardigan, weave in any loose ends using a tapestry needle. You can add buttons, clasps, or other closures along the front opening if desired.

Try on your cardigan to ensure the fit is as you desire. If adjustments are needed, you can make modifications by adding or subtracting rows in the body or sleeves.