The Explorer's Cardigan by Andra Mirescu

The Explorer's Cardigan

Crochet
March 2024
DK (11 wpi) ?
21 stitches and 14 rows = 4 inches
in Special Stitch
4.0 mm (G)
262 - 787 yards (240 - 720 m)
0-8 years old
US
English
This pattern is available for €6.00 EUR buy it now

It’s a cardigan that I designed for newborns all the way up to eight-year-olds. I really wanted this to be something magical for kids, like a prop from a storybook adventure.

The most interesting thing about it is the stitch I’ve used, that you won’t find anywhere else online. I spent a LOT of time researching and stitching until I was happy with its bumpy texture and coziness. I wanted this to be a miniature version of what a true adult explorer would wear. That’s why the color I chose isn’t kiddy like at all. I not only made sure it’s suitable for both boys and girls, but I also wanted it to be “serious” enough.

While choosing the right stitch and color, I also made sure it was easy to crochet, as well as comfortable for the little ones to wear. So I used a soft, high-quality yarn that’s a pleasure to work with and also gentle on the child’s skin.

And here’s the best part: you don’t have to be an advanced crocheter to make this cardigan! It’s perfect for anyone who’s at an advanced beginner level. I also have a step-by-step video tutorial to help you learn the special stitch.

CROCHET PATTERN

⋅ Baby & Kids Cardigan
⋅ Newborn - 8 years old
⋅ Crochet skill level: Advanced Beginner
⋅ Standard US terms
⋅ Language: ENGLISH

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TOOLS & MATERIALS:

  1. Alize - Baby Best 2-3 skeins
  2. Size 4 mm hook
  3. Stitch markers
  4. 3 buttons - 2 cm
  5. Scissors
  6. Tapestry needle
  7. Measuring tape

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OVERVIEW:

  1. The cardigan is worked in 5 pieces: the Back, 2 Front Panels and 2 Sleeves.
  2. Each piece is crocheted bottom up.
  3. The neckband is crocheted along the neckline after the front and back panels are sewn together.
  4. Chain spaces are worked in front edge for buttonholes.

Directions are for size 0-6 months. Changes for sizes 6-12 months, 1-2 years, 3-4 years, 5-6 years and 7-8 years are in parentheses in the corresponding colors.

To Fit Chest: 46 (51, 56, 61, 63.5, 69) cm
Finished Chest: 49 (57, 61, 67, 71, 73) cm, buttoned
Finished Length: 25 (28, 34, 37, 40, 44) cm, including edging