by Aptly named for its soft texture and fluffy appearance, the Marshmallow Baby Cardigan Sweater is a delightful crochet project that makes a wonderful gift for a newborn or toddler. With its pillow stitches and snuggly fit, this cardigan is both practical and adorable — perfect for chilly mornings or cozy afternoons.
💖 Why You’ll Love It
- Soft and cuddly texture like a marshmallow
- Beginner-friendly construction
- Customizable sizes and colors
- Great gift for baby showers, birthdays, or handmade keepsakes
🧵 Materials You’ll Need
- Chunky or baby chenille yarn (or a soft velvet yarn in pastel shades)
- Crochet hook: 6.0 mm (J) or size appropriate for your yarn
- Stitch markers
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Buttons (3–5, depending on size)
- Scissors
📘 Crochet Stitches Used (US Terms)
- CH – Chain
- SC – Single Crochet
- DC – Double Crochet
- HDC – Half Double Crochet
- SL ST – Slip Stitch
- INC – Increase (two stitches in one stitch)
🧣 Basic Construction Overview
The Marshmallow Baby Cardigan is worked top-down in one piece, making it seamless and easy to adjust in size. The fluffy yarn hides imperfections, making it perfect for beginners.
🧸 Step-by-Step Pattern Summary
1. Yoke (Neckline to Armholes)
- CH 48 (or adjust based on size).
- Work HDC across in rows, increasing at the corners to shape the yoke (raglan style).
- Continue increasing until the yoke comfortably fits around baby’s chest and shoulders.
2. Divide for Sleeves
- Skip stitches for armholes, connecting the front and back panels by chaining across the gaps.
- Work HDC across the body section only.
3. Body of the Cardigan
- Continue working rows of HDC until you reach the desired length (typically waist to hip).
- Optional: Add a ribbed border using front post/back post DC.
4. Sleeves
- Attach yarn to the armhole and work in rounds.
- Use HDC or DC to keep the marshmallow texture uniform.
- Decrease slightly at the wrist for a cuffed look.
5. Finishing Details
- Add a simple button band by SC evenly up one side, across the neckline, and down the other.
- Sew on buttons and create loops or buttonholes.
🌈 Color & Style Ideas
- Classic white or cream: marshmallow look and feel
- Pastels: pink, mint, baby blue, or lavender
- Striped version: alternate soft colors for a playful effect
- Add a crochet flower or pompom on the chest or cuff for extra charm
🧼 Care Tips
- Hand wash or machine wash on gentle cycle
- Lay flat to dry
- Avoid hot water or heat drying (especially with plush yarns)
🧶 Final Thoughts
The Marshmallow Baby Cardigan Sweater is as delightful to make as it is to gift. With its soft feel, cozy warmth, and sweet design, it’s a perfect beginner-friendly project that looks impressively polished. Whether you’re making it for your own little one or as a heartfelt gift, this cardigan will surely become a cherished piece.
Video tutorial:
Wrap your baby in softness and love – one stitch at a time! 🧵👶💖
