Granny cardigan

Kunik Cardigan by The Missing Yarn

What is Being Made

The Kunik Cardigan is a modern, loose-fitting crochet cardigan that reimagines the classic granny square motif as a wearable garment. Designed by Cassie Ward of The Missing Yarn, this cardigan offers an exciting contemporary take on traditional granny square construction. The finished piece features charming fringing that allows the fabric to flow beautifully, creating movement and visual interest. This downloadable PDF pattern is suitable for crocheters with intermediate skill level and comes in two sizing options: Small (bust 102 cm / 40 in, length 83 cm / 32.75 in, sleeve length 38 cm / 15 in) and Medium (bust 113 cm / 44.5 in, length 91 cm / 36 in, sleeve length 42 cm / 16.5 in).

Techniques Used

The Kunik Cardigan employs modular crochet construction, a technique where individual motifs are created separately and then assembled according to a making-up diagram to form the complete garment. This approach allows for flexibility in color placement and makes the project manageable in sections. The cardigan utilizes three different types of motifs to create visual variety and structure: square motifs, one-colour square motifs, and half-square motifs. The addition of fringing as a finishing technique enhances the garment's drape and adds a decorative element that complements the granny square aesthetic.

Stitches and Crochet Construction

While the specific stitch instructions are contained within the full pattern, the Kunik Cardigan is built around granny square motifs, which are traditionally constructed using chain stitches, double crochet stitches, and chain spaces to create the characteristic square shape with open corners. The pattern incorporates multiple variations of this classic motif to achieve different design elements throughout the cardigan. Single square motifs measure approximately 18 cm (7 in) square when worked with a 5 mm hook to the correct tension, providing a clear gauge for construction and assembly.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Kunik Cardigan is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn, specifically using Debbie Bliss Rialto DK. The color palette consists of five coordinating shades:

• Yarn A - Teal: 12 balls (Small) or 14 balls (Medium) – the primary color
• Yarn B - Ecru: 4 balls
• Yarn C - Chocolate: 3 balls
• Yarn D - Mustard: 1 ball
• Yarn E - Scarlet: 2 balls

A 5 mm crochet hook is used to work the motifs to the specified tension. The DK weight yarn combined with the 5 mm hook creates appropriately sized squares and produces a fabric with good drape suitable for a cardigan silhouette.

Difficulty Level

Rated at 2 stars (Intermediate), the Kunik Cardigan is appropriate for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are comfortable working from diagrams and following pattern instructions. The modular construction and use of familiar granny square techniques make this an accessible intermediate project that builds skills in color work, motif assembly, and garment finishing.