Squidge Cardigan

Squidge Cardigan by Mammamaker - Louise

What is Being Made

The Squidge Cardigan is a children's crocheted cardigan designed by Louise (Mammamaker) in three size options: 2-4 years, 4-6 years, and 6-8 years. This is a wearable garment project suitable for intermediate-level crocheters, with an option to simplify the loop section for beginners. The cardigan is crafted using aran or chunky weight wool, making it a substantial and cozy piece for young children.

Techniques Used

This crochet cardigan employs fundamental shaping and construction techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The pattern utilizes decreasing stitches (marked as 2TOG in the instructions) to create shaping within the garment. Edge finishing is achieved by adding chain stitches at each end of rows to ensure neat and straight edges throughout the cardigan. The designer notes that the Loop section can be worked as a non-pattern section for those seeking an easier construction method, making this project adaptable to different skill levels.

Stitches Used

The Squidge Cardigan incorporates a variety of fundamental crochet stitches written in US terminology:

• CH - Chain stitch, the foundation stitch for starting rows and sections
• SS - Slip stitch, used for joining and finishing
• SC - Single crochet (equivalent to UK double crochet), a basic short stitch
• DC - Double crochet (equivalent to UK treble crochet), a medium-height stitch
• HDC - Half double crochet (equivalent to UK half treble crochet), a stitch between single and double crochet in height
• TC - Treble crochet (equivalent to UK double treble crochet), a tall stitch
• SCBLO - Single crochet back loop only, which creates textured edges by working through only the back loop of stitches
• 2TOG - Decreasing stitches, used to reduce stitch counts for shaping the cardigan

Materials

The Squidge Cardigan requires approximately 550 meters to 600 yards of yarn in total. The pattern calls for 3 balls of 100g aran or chunky weight wool. A 5.5 UK crochet hook is used for the main construction. The pattern notes that if using stash yarns for colour tipping or single-colour rows, DK weight yarn can be substituted, though the yarn must be doubled when using this lighter weight. The designer recommends washing the finished cardigan on a wool cycle, ideally in a protective bag to prevent microplastics release.

Pattern Format and Designer Information

This is a downloadable PDF pattern created and written by Louise of Mammamaker. The pattern is presented in US crochet terminology and includes sizing information for three age ranges with fit notes to the top size. The designer can be contacted at louise.apps80@gmail.com, and additional patterns are available through the Mammamaker Etsy shop.