Crochet Rainbow Cardigan

Crochet Rainbow Cardigan by Gorica Pavlovic

What is Being Made

This is a crochet cardigan designed by Gorica Pavlovic, crafted as a single continuous piece from the bottom upward. The finished cardigan measures 127cm (50 inches) in length with a back width of 60cm (23.6 inches) and sleeve length of 35cm (13.7 inches). The design features a striking rainbow color palette created through strategic color changes throughout the construction, making it a visually dynamic garment suitable for various seasons and occasions.

Techniques Used

The cardigan is constructed using the open shell stitch pattern, also known as V-stitch, which creates an airy, lacy fabric with excellent drape and breathability. The garment is worked in a single piece from the bottom to the top, which streamlines construction and minimizes seaming. This technique is particularly effective for creating structured yet flexible garments that maintain their shape while allowing for comfortable movement.

The V-stitch pattern requires careful chain spacing to maintain proper stitch alignment and symmetry. The basic pattern formula specifies that the number of chains should be divisible by 5, plus 9 additional chains (2x3 for symmetry plus 3 chains replacing the first double crochet). The first V-stitch is worked into the 7th chain from the hook, with subsequent V-stitches spaced by skipping 4 chains and working into the 5th chain stitch, as detailed in the included diagram.

Stitches Used

• V-stitch (V-st): The primary stitch throughout the cardigan, created by working (1 double crochet, chain 3, 1 double crochet) into the same stitch. This creates the characteristic open, shell-like appearance of the fabric.
• Double crochet (Dc): The foundational stitch component within each V-stitch unit, providing structure and definition to the pattern.
• Chain stitch (ch): Used for spacing between V-stitches and for creating the foundation chain at the beginning of the project.

Materials and Tools

This cardigan is designed to be worked with Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK weight yarn, a medium-weight cotton yarn ideal for creating breathable, drape-friendly garments. The yarn weight classification is DK (Double Knitting), which produces a fabric with excellent stitch definition and comfortable wear.

The color palette consists of eight distinct shades from the Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK range:

• Tea Rose (443) - 2 balls
• Dusty Rose (442) - 2 balls
• Marine Blue (434) - 1 ball
• Lime Green (429) - 1 ball
• Buttercup Yellow (423) - 2 balls
• Peach Orange (455) - 1 ball
• Bubblegum Pink (451) - 1 ball
• Blush Pink (454) - 1 ball
• Duck Egg Blue (436) - 1 ball
• Paper White (401) - 7 balls

The total yardage requirement accommodates the generous length and width of this cardigan, with Paper White serving as the primary neutral base color. The construction requires a 3.5mm crochet hook, which pairs appropriately with DK weight yarn to create the intended gauge and fabric density for the V-stitch pattern.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it accessible to crocheters new to garment construction. While the single-piece construction and color changes require attention to detail, the V-stitch pattern itself is straightforward to execute once the basic repeat is established. The pattern includes detailed diagrams to guide stitch placement and spacing, supporting successful completion by crafters at the beginning of their crochet journey.