Emmeline Cardigan

Emmeline Cardigan by Simone Francis

What is Being Made

The Emmeline Cardigan is a beginner-friendly crochet cardigan designed by independent designer Simone Francis. This garment falls into the bolero, cardigan, and jacket category, offering a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions. The cardigan features a distinctive collar design with the seam placed at the top neck edge, creating an invisible join when the collar is folded back. The pattern includes four size options to fit bust measurements ranging from 30 to 52 inches (76.5 to 132 centimeters), making it adaptable for different body types.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

The Emmeline Cardigan employs fundamental crochet techniques appropriate for beginner-level crafters. The construction begins with the back piece using a 6.00mm crochet hook, establishing the foundation of the garment. The pattern utilizes a strategic approach to collar construction, where the seam placement at the top neck edge ensures a polished, invisible finish when the collar is worn folded. Additional rounds can be added to the collar to accommodate larger bust sizes, allowing crafters to customize the fit while requiring additional yarn yardage.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates essential crochet stitches suitable for beginners:

• Chain stitch (ch) – the foundation stitch used to create the base of the garment
• Slip stitch (sl st) – used for joining rounds and connecting sections seamlessly
• Treble stitch (tr) – a taller stitch that creates the main fabric texture and drape
• Treble 2 stitches together (tr2tog) – a decrease stitch for shaping the cardigan
• Chain spaces (ch-sp) – openings created by chains that add texture and visual interest

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Emmeline Cardigan pattern calls for King Cole New Magnum Chunky yarn, a blend of 75% acrylic and 25% wool. This chunky weight yarn provides excellent stitch definition and creates a warm, durable fabric. The pattern requires multiple yarn colors for a multi-colored design:

• Yarn A (Shade 1436 Navy) – the primary color, requiring 5 to 7 balls depending on size
• Yarn B (Shade 1982 Topaz) – an accent color, requiring 1 ball
• Yarn C (Shade 1435 Champagne) – an accent color, requiring 1 ball
• Yarn D (Shade 1443 Thistle) – an accent color, requiring 1 ball

Each ball of King Cole New Magnum Chunky contains 100 grams with 138 meters (150 yards) of yardage. The chunky weight creates quick project completion, making this an ideal choice for beginners seeking visible progress.

Tools Required

The pattern utilizes three different crochet hook sizes to achieve proper gauge and fabric texture:

• 6.00mm hook (J/10) – used for the initial construction of the back piece
• 7.00mm hook – used for subsequent sections requiring a different gauge
• 8.00mm hook (L/11) – used for sections requiring a more open, drape-friendly fabric

A tapestry needle is also required for weaving in yarn ends and finishing the garment professionally.

Size and Fit Information

The Emmeline Cardigan is available in four size ranges designed to fit bust measurements of 30–34 inches, 36–40 inches, 42–46 inches, and 48–52 inches (76.5–86 cm, 91–102 cm, 107–117 cm, and 122–132 cm respectively). The collar circumference varies by size, ranging from 91 inches to 118 inches (231 to 300 centimeters), ensuring proper proportions across all sizes. The schematic provided in the pattern offers precise measurements for reference during construction.