Laurie's Cardigan or Vest

Laurie's Cardigan by Angela Plunkett

What is Being Made

Laurie's Cardigan is a warm weather crochet cardigan designed by Angela Plunkett of Little Monkeys Designs. This versatile piece functions as both a cardigan and vest option, making it suitable for layering throughout multiple seasons. The garment features delicate flowers adorning the front panels and distinctive arched stitching across the top and back, creating a casual, everyday aesthetic that works for a variety of occasions.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This advanced-level crochet project incorporates several specialized techniques to achieve its decorative appearance. The garment employs floral motifs on the front sections, which add visual interest and texture to the piece. Arched stitching across the top and back creates dimensional shaping and contributes to the garment's structure and fit. The combination of these techniques requires careful attention to stitch placement and tension, making this pattern suitable for experienced crocheters who are comfortable working with complex stitch sequences.

Stitches Used

Laurie's Cardigan utilizes fundamental crochet stitches combined with specialized stitch variations:

• Chain stitch (ch) – Used for foundation chains and spacing
• Single crochet (sc) – Provides structure and dense fabric
• Double crochet (dc) – Creates lighter, more drape-friendly sections
• Slip stitch (sl st) – Used for joining rounds and seaming
• Dc4tog – A special stitch variation that decreases four double crochets together, used for shaping and creating the arched stitch details

Materials and Specifications

Laurie's Cardigan is crocheted with sport weight yarn in a single color, offering a refined, elegant appearance. The sample garment shown in the pattern was created using Appalachian Baby Design Organic Cotton sport weight yarn, which provides breathability and comfort ideal for warm weather wear.

Yarn Requirements by Size:

• S/M: 8.6 oz / 560 yards (3 balls)
• Large: Approximately 760 yards (4 balls)
• XL: Approximately 970 yards (5 balls)
• 2/3XL: Approximately 1,012 yards (6 balls)

The pattern calls for a Size G/7 crochet hook or the size needed to meet the specified gauge. Crocheters will also need a yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming the finished pieces together.

Size Range and Skill Level

Laurie's Cardigan is available in four sizes: S/M, L, XL, and 2/3XL, accommodating a range of body types. This pattern is rated as Advanced difficulty, reflecting the complexity of the special stitches, floral construction, and arched stitch techniques required. Crocheters should have solid foundational skills and experience working with stitch abbreviations and pattern instructions before attempting this project.