by A handmade baby cardigan is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a keepsake, a warm hug, and a labor of love. Crocheting a baby cardigan is a rewarding project that’s ideal for baby showers, birthdays, or just because. Whether you’re new to garment-making or a seasoned crocheter, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to crochet a baby cardigan from start to finish.
🧵 Supplies You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- Yarn: Choose a soft, baby-friendly yarn such as cotton, bamboo, or hypoallergenic acrylic (DK or worsted weight depending on pattern)
- Crochet hook: Usually 4mm–5mm for DK or worsted yarn; check your yarn label
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle: For weaving in ends
- Buttons (optional): 3–5 small baby-safe buttons
- Measuring tape
- Stitch markers (optional but helpful)
📏 Standard Baby Cardigan Sizes
| Size | Chest Circumference | Length (shoulder to hem) |
|---|---|---|
| Newborn | 14″ – 16″ | 8″ – 9″ |
| 0–3 Months | 16″ – 18″ | 9″ – 10″ |
| 3–6 Months | 18″ – 19″ | 10″ – 11″ |
| 6–12 Months | 19″ – 20″ | 11″ – 12″ |
🧶 Basic Stitches You Should Know
Most baby cardigan patterns use these beginner-friendly stitches:
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- sl st – slip stitch
- inc – increase (e.g., 2 sc in one stitch)
- dec – decrease (e.g., sc2tog)
🧵 Construction Overview
There are two common methods to crochet a baby cardigan:
1. Top-Down (Raglan Style)
- Crocheted in one piece, starting at the neckline.
- You increase at four points to shape the shoulders and body.
- Minimal seaming—ideal for beginners.
2. Panel Method
- Made by crocheting separate panels: back, two fronts, and sleeves.
- Panels are then seamed together.
- Allows more shaping and structure.
For simplicity, we’ll focus on the top-down raglan method, which is fast, seamless, and beginner-friendly.
🧵 Step-by-Step: How to Crochet a Basic Top-Down Baby Cardigan (0–3 months)
✅ Step 1: Create the Yoke
- Foundation Chain:
- Ch 44 (adjust depending on pattern size)
- This chain forms the neckline.
- Row 1:
- Work across the chain: dc in each ch with increases at raglan points (e.g., dc, ch 1, dc in same stitch at 4 places)
- Use stitch markers to mark increases (e.g., 8th, 14th, 30th, 36th stitches)
- Continue Yoke:
- Repeat rows, increasing 1 dc before and after each raglan stitch on each row
- Work until the yoke is wide enough to divide for sleeves (approx. 3.5″ – 4″)
✅ Step 2: Divide for Body and Sleeves
- Separate stitches for the sleeves by skipping the sleeve sections and joining the front and back with a chain under each arm (usually ch 4–6).
- Continue working the body in rows or rounds to the desired length (7″–9″).
✅ Step 3: Add Sleeves
- Join yarn to underarm.
- Work in rounds or rows down the sleeve.
- Decrease slightly for taper if needed.
- Make sleeves 4″–5″ for 0–3 months.
✅ Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Edging: Add a row of sc or crab stitch around the neckline, hem, and sleeves for a clean finish.
- Buttonholes: On the front edge, ch 1 spaces every 6–8 rows for buttons.
- Buttons: Sew securely with yarn (no loose threads for baby safety).
- Weave in ends with a tapestry needle.
🌟 Tips for Success
- Use stitch markers to track raglan increases.
- Try on as you go (if you’re making for a specific baby).
- Use soft, washable yarn to make it easy for parents.
- Block your cardigan gently with steam or wet blocking to shape and smooth stitches.
🧸 Customize Your Cardigan
Want to make your cardigan truly unique? Here are some ideas:
- Add colorwork (stripes, granny squares, or a contrast trim)
- Attach appliqués (crochet flowers, leaves, hearts)
- Make it a hoodie by adding a crochet hood
- Create matching booties or hat for a full set
📥 Free Patterns to Try
- Ravelry.com – Thousands of free & paid baby cardigan patterns
- Yarn company websites like Lion Brand, Yarnspirations, and Drops Design
- YouTube tutorials for visual learners (search “crochet baby cardigan top-down”)
🧶 Final Thoughts
Crocheting a baby cardigan is a joyful project that’s surprisingly beginner-friendly. Once you understand the basic construction, you can customize the design, play with textures and colors, and even create your own patterns. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth crochet project, each baby cardigan is a cozy, handmade gift filled with love.
Video tutorial:
