BeBold Cardigan

BeBold Cardigan by Skeinsnsticks Designs

What Is Being Made

The BeBold Cardigan is a mosaic crochet cardigan designed by Skeinsnsticks Designs. This intermediate-level project features a striking two-color mosaic pattern on the back, making it an ideal garment for crocheters looking to expand their skills beyond basic techniques. The cardigan is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 34 inches to 58 inches, offering 2 inches of positive ease for comfortable wear.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

The BeBold Cardigan employs a panel-based construction method, with individual pieces worked separately and then seamed together. This approach allows for better control over the mosaic patterning and makes the project more manageable during the building process. The mosaic technique itself is a color-work method that creates intricate geometric patterns by strategically skipping stitches and working into stitches from previous rows, resulting in a sophisticated visual effect without the complexity of traditional colorwork methods.

Stitches and Special Techniques

The pattern utilizes foundation single crochet (fsc) as a special stitch, which creates a more stable foundation row compared to traditional chain-and-single-crochet methods. Foundation single crochet involves chaining two stitches, inserting the hook into the second chain from the hook, pulling up a loop, and drawing through both loops in a single motion—a technique that builds the foundation and first row simultaneously. The mosaic patterning creates the primary visual interest throughout the cardigan, requiring careful attention to stitch placement and color changes to achieve the intended design.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The BeBold Cardigan is designed to be worked with Lion Brand® Feels Like Butta, an aran-weight yarn that provides excellent drape and a luxurious feel. The project requires a total of 9 to 15 skeins depending on size: Color 1 (C1) is #150 Charcoal, requiring 5 to 7 skeins, and Color 2 (C2) is #140 Dusty Pink, requiring 4 to 8 skeins. A US G/4.0mm crochet hook is recommended, though adjustments may be necessary to achieve the specified gauge. Additional materials include a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and stitch markers to track pattern repeats and construction points.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches by 24 rows over a 4-inch by 4-inch swatch when worked in mosaic patterning after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements. The cardigan should be blocked after completion to set the stitches and ensure the mosaic pattern displays clearly, with finished bust measurements ranging from 34 inches for the XS size to 58 inches for the 3X size.

Difficulty Level

Rated as Level 3 – Intermediate, the BeBold Cardigan is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more advanced techniques. The mosaic patterning and panel construction require attention to detail and pattern reading ability, making this project an excellent stepping stone toward more complex crochet designs. The designer encourages makers to embrace the challenge with the philosophy: Be Bold, Be Fierce, Be Uniquely You.