by A double-breasted coat or cardigan for girls is a stylish, functional garment that offers warmth and a chic, tailored look. This classic design features two rows of buttons and overlapping front panels, making it not only cute but also secure and cozy.
Crocheting a double-breasted coat/cardigan is a wonderful project for intermediate crocheters who want to create a beautiful heirloom-quality piece for a child. Whether it’s for chilly days or cooler spring evenings, this garment combines fashion with function.
Why Choose a Double-Breasted Design?
- Extra warmth: Overlapping front panels add insulation.
- Elegant look: The double rows of buttons give a polished, sophisticated appearance.
- Secure fit: The style stays closed better than single-button designs, perfect for active kids.
- Versatility: Works well with different yarn weights and stitch patterns.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Choose a soft, warm yarn like wool, wool blends, or acrylic suitable for the season. Worsted weight yarn is a good versatile choice.
- Hook: Use the size recommended on your yarn label, commonly 4.0 mm (G) or 5.0 mm (H).
- Buttons: At least 4–6 medium-sized buttons for the double-breasted closure.
- Yarn needle: For seaming and weaving ends.
- Stitch markers: To keep track of button placement and shaping.
- Measuring tape
Basic Design Elements
- Panels: The coat typically consists of a back panel, two front panels that overlap, and sleeves.
- Buttonbands: Separate bands or incorporated edges where buttons and buttonholes are worked.
- Collar (optional): A shawl collar or classic collar adds elegance.
- Sleeve type: Raglan or set-in sleeves, depending on your preferred construction style.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crocheting a Double-Breasted Coat/Cardigan for Girls
Step 1: Taking Measurements
Measure the child’s chest circumference, arm length, and desired coat length. Use size charts for approximate measurements by age if needed.
Step 2: Swatching
Make a gauge swatch using your chosen stitch pattern and yarn. Calculate how many stitches and rows per inch to match measurements.
Step 3: Crochet the Back Panel
- Chain a foundation row to match the child’s back width.
- Work rows in your chosen stitch (e.g., half double crochet, double crochet, or textured stitches).
- Continue until reaching the desired back length.
Step 4: Crochet the Front Panels
- Work two front panels, each about half the width of the back plus some overlap for the double-breasted effect.
- Make sure to add extra width on the overlapping side to accommodate button placement.
- Length should match the back panel.
Step 5: Crochet the Sleeves
- Crochet sleeves to fit arm measurements.
- Use simple rows or rounds, tapering slightly toward the wrist.
Step 6: Buttonbands and Collar
- Crochet buttonbands on each front panel by working rows of single crochet or your chosen edging stitch.
- Create buttonholes on one side by chaining and skipping stitches at regular intervals.
- Add a collar if desired, by crocheting separately and sewing on, or working directly onto the neckline.
Step 7: Assembly
- Seam shoulders and sides using mattress stitch or whip stitch.
- Attach sleeves to armholes.
- Sew in buttons aligned with buttonholes.
Stitch Patterns to Consider
- Simple double crochet: Quick and classic.
- Basket weave: Adds texture and warmth.
- Ribbing with front/back post stitches: Creates stretchy cuffs and buttonbands.
- Seed stitch: Adds subtle texture and density.
Tips for a Professional Finish
- Use stitch markers for accurate button placement.
- Block each piece before assembly to ensure even sizing.
- Use a yarn needle with a blunt tip to avoid splitting yarn when sewing seams.
- Choose buttons large enough for easy fastening by little fingers.
Example Basic Pattern Outline (Sizes 2-4 Years)
- Back: Chain 60, dc in rows to length 15 inches.
- Front panels: Chain 30 each, dc in rows 15 inches, add 1-inch overlap edge.
- Sleeves: Chain 25, dc in rounds tapering to wrist length 10 inches.
- Buttonbands: sc in rows, with 5 buttonholes spaced evenly on one side.
- Buttons: 5 buttons sewn on opposite front panel.
Caring for Your Crochet Coat/Cardigan
- Use machine washable yarns if possible.
- Hand wash gently in cold water if delicate yarn.
- Lay flat to dry to maintain shape.
- Avoid wringing or twisting.
Video tutorial:
Conclusion
Crocheting a double-breasted coat/cardigan for girls is a rewarding project that blends fashion and practicality. With careful measurement, attention to detail, and thoughtful finishing, you can create a cozy and stylish piece that your child will love to wear for years.
