Manoa Cardi

Manoa Cardi by Isabella Tonski

What Is Being Made

The Manoa Cardi is a versatile crocheted cardigan designed by Isabella Tonski of Bella's Custom Crochets. This piece serves as the perfect layering garment for any wardrobe, offering both style and functionality. The cardigan was originally designed in a drapey bamboo blend yarn and draws inspiration from a personal anniversary trip to Oahu, Hawaii, where the designer hiked to Manoa Falls through a lush bamboo forest. The name and aesthetic of this cardigan capture that memorable adventure and natural beauty.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Manoa Cardi employs fundamental crochet construction techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The garment is worked using different hook sizes for distinct sections: a larger hook for the body creates a more relaxed drape, while a smaller hook is used for the sleeves to achieve a more fitted construction. This strategic use of varying hook sizes allows the designer to control fabric density and movement throughout the piece, resulting in a cardigan that drapes beautifully while maintaining structure where needed.

Stitches Used

The Manoa Cardi utilizes several fundamental crochet stitches to create its structure and texture:

• Chain (CH) - used for foundation and pattern construction
• Single Crochet (SC) - provides a tight, dense fabric base
• Half Double Crochet (HDC) - creates a medium-weight fabric with good drape
• Double Crochet (DC) - adds height and openness to the fabric

The combination of these stitches creates a balanced fabric that offers both structure and the desired drapey quality characteristic of the design.

Yarn and Materials

The Manoa Cardi pattern calls for 6 to 9 skeins of yarn depending on size, with yardage requirements ranging from 1,000 to 1,510 yards total. The original design features Caron x Pantone Bamboo yarn in the Ghost Gray colorway, worked at 4/worsted weight (approximately 180 yards per skein). The pattern accommodates both DK and worsted weight yarns, allowing crafters flexibility in yarn selection while maintaining the intended drape and fit.

Essential tools include an I-9/5.5 mm crochet hook for the body and an H-8/5 mm crochet hook for the sleeves. Additional supplies needed are scissors, a measuring tape, and a yarn needle for finishing. Optional blocking supplies—a blocking mat and pins or weights—help achieve professional finishing and even fabric appearance.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate project, the Manoa Cardi is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle garment construction. The pattern's use of multiple hook sizes and various basic stitches requires understanding of gauge, shaping techniques, and garment assembly, making it an excellent choice for crafters looking to expand their garment-making abilities.