Crochet Cardigans in Stylecraft Moonbeam - 9629 - Downloadable PDF

Crochet Cardigans in Stylecraft Moonbeam DK – Pattern 9629

This downloadable PDF from Stylecraft contains two easy crochet cardigan designs worked in Moonbeam DK, a double knitting weight yarn. Both cardigans are sized generously, covering a wide range of bust measurements from 81–86 cm (32–34 in) up to 122–127 cm (48–50 in), making this pattern an excellent choice for crocheters who want inclusive sizing in a wearable, everyday garment. The pattern is described as easy, placing it well within reach of confident beginners and intermediate crocheters alike.

The Two Cardigan Designs

Design One – Elbow Sleeve Length Cardigan

The first cardigan features elbow-length sleeves, giving it a relaxed, transitional-season feel that works beautifully as a layering piece. The back length runs approximately 52–60 cm (20½–23¾ in) depending on size, and the elbow sleeve length ranges from 21–28 cm (8¼–11 in). Actual bust measurements across the five sizes are 92, 102, 112, 122, and 132 cm (36¼, 40, 44, 48, and 52 in), providing a comfortable, slightly relaxed fit over the stated bust sizes.

This version is worked in the colourway Full Moon 3956, one of the shades available in the Stylecraft Moonbeam DK range. The yarn requirement for this design is 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 balls of 50g Moonbeam DK across the five sizes respectively.

Design Two – Short Sleeve Length Cardigan

The second cardigan is a shorter-sleeved version, ideal for warmer weather or as a lightweight cover-up. The short sleeve length measures approximately 12–16 cm (4¾–6¼ in) depending on size, while the body length remains comparable to the first design. This version is shown in Moonlight Frappe 3958, another shade from the Moonbeam DK palette. Yarn requirements are slightly lower at 9, 10, 10, 11, or 11 balls of 50g Moonbeam DK across the five sizes.

Materials Required

• Yarn: Stylecraft Moonbeam DK, 50g balls – colourways Full Moon 3956 and Moonlight Frappe 3958
• Hook: 4.5mm crochet hook (equivalent to UK 7 / USA 7)
• Yarn weight: Double knitting (DK)

Techniques and Construction

Both cardigans are constructed using a straightforward flat crochet method, working back and forth in rows to create the back and front panels. Construction begins with a foundation chain, and the fabric is built up from there using a loop-only double crochet pattern that gives the finished fabric a distinctive ridged, textural appearance.

The key technique throughout both designs is the alternating use of front loop only (FLO) and back loop only (BLO) double crochet. By working into only one loop of each stitch on alternating rows, the unused loops stack up on the surface of the fabric, creating a subtle horizontal ridge texture that adds visual interest without requiring complex stitch knowledge. This technique is sometimes called a loop stitch rib or linen stitch variation in crochet, and it produces a fabric with a pleasing drape and a slightly stretchy quality that suits garment making well.

Stitches Used

• Double crochet (dc) – the primary stitch used throughout both cardigans
• Front Loop Only double crochet (FLO dc) – worked on alternating rows to create texture
• Back Loop Only double crochet (BLO dc) – worked on alternating rows in combination with FLO rows
• Chain (ch) – used for the foundation chain and turning chains

Pattern Structure and Shaping

The back of