The Waverly Hooded Cardigan

The Waverly Hooded Cardigan by Meghan Ballmer

What is Being Made

The Waverly Hooded Cardigan is a structured crochet cardigan featuring a hood, designed by Meghan Ballmer. This garment is worked in pieces, beginning with the back panel and continuing with front panels that are integrated directly into the top of the back section. The cardigan is available in eight sizes ranging from XS to 5X, with the XS size measuring approximately 17 inches across the back and fitting a 28"-30" chest.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level crochet project employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning the cardigan is built starting from the lower edge and working upward. The front panels are worked top-down and are attached directly into the top of the back panel, creating a seamless integration. A key technique used throughout the pattern is working stitches in back loop only (BLO), which creates a distinctive textured appearance and adds structure to the finished garment. The pattern uses standard crochet abbreviations and includes detailed sizing notes to accommodate multiple garment dimensions.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes fundamental crochet stitches including:

• Chain (Ch) — the foundation stitch used to create base chains and turning chains at the beginning of rows
• Half Double Crochet (hdc) — a primary stitch used throughout the cardigan body, worked with the right side facing the crocheter
• Slip Stitch (Sl st) — used for joining and finishing details

Chains at the beginning of rows do not count as stitches unless otherwise specified in the pattern instructions.

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Waverly Hooded Cardigan is designed to be made with worsted weight yarn. The pattern specifies Lion Brand ZZ Twist in Taupe as the recommended yarn, with yardage requirements varying by size. The XS size requires approximately 1373 yards, while larger sizes require up to 2412 yards. A size H (5.00mm) crochet hook is used to work the yarn. Essential tools include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, a tape measure or ruler for checking gauge and measurements, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, and scissors for cutting yarn. The pattern notes that substituting alternative yarns may require additional yardage beyond what is listed for the specified Lion Brand yarn.

Pattern Details

This downloadable PDF pattern includes comprehensive sizing information for eight different garment sizes, making it accessible for a wide range of body measurements. The pattern is written with the smallest size (XS) as the primary instruction, with all other sizes listed in parentheses for easy reference. Detailed abbreviations and special notes are provided to guide crocheters through the construction process, ensuring clarity for intermediate-level crafters.