Crochet Cardigan Pattern (Easy Cropped Mesh Cardigan)

This cardigan is built from three rectangles (back and two fronts) worked in a simple double-crochet mesh, then seamed at the shoulders and sides. No complex shaping required — the drape of the mesh stitch does the work.

Sizing

Written for a finished bust of 38" (fits Small/Medium with a few inches of positive ease). To size up or down, adjust starting chain length in multiples of 3.

Materials

• DK weight yarn, approx. 600–700g depending on size
• 4.5mm hook
• Yarn needle, stitch markers, 4 buttons (optional)

Mesh Stitch Pattern (multiple of 3 + 1)

Row 1: dc in 4th ch from hook, ch 1, skip 1, dc in next 2 sts, repeat across. Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), ch 1, dc in ch-1 space, dc in next dc, repeat, ending with dc in top of turning chain.

Repeat Row 2 for the pattern.

Back Panel

Chain 58. Work mesh stitch for 24 rows (approx. 14"), or until desired length to underarm. Continue for the body length you want, then fasten off.

Front Panels (make 2)

Chain 31. Work mesh stitch pattern, matching row count to the back panel. Fasten off.

Sleeves (make 2)

Chain 40. Work in mesh stitch in the round (join to work in a tube) for 16 rounds, or to desired sleeve length.

Assembly

1. Seam the front panels to the back panel at the shoulders, leaving an opening for the neck.
2. Sew side seams from hem up to the underarm, leaving the top portion open for sleeves.
3. Set in sleeves at the armholes and sew in place.
4. Work 1 round of single crochet around the entire outer edge (front openings, hem, and neckline) for a clean finish.

Finishing

Weave in ends and block flat to open up the mesh pattern fully. Add buttons if you'd like a closure, or wear it open as designed.

Tip: block this piece aggressively — mesh stitches look tight and cramped until blocking relaxes them into their full drape.

New to garment patterns? How to read a crochet pattern explains gauge swatches and stitch counts before you start.