DIY: Crochet Roundabout Cardigan and Free Pattern

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I found the free Roundabout Cardigan on the Red Heart pattern site. It’s an open-front, long-sleeved cardigan that uses worsted weight yarn.

I liked how the pattern hangs open and is edged with a ribbed panel. However, after a test swatch (to check my gauge), I didn’t like how the pattern stitch looked. Instead, I used a granite or linen stitch (sc, ch 1). This stitch has a more woven texture and seems to have better drape. The pattern is easy to read and doesn’t have any complex stitches. The most difficult part was actually making the ribbed front edging, but even that wasn’t too hard because of the great written directions.

I actually started crocheting this cardigan back in February 2018! It took a while to finish, and by then it was too hot to wear. I’m happy to include it in my autumn wardrobe now, though!

In total, I used 15 skeins of Garnstudio DROPS Big Merino in Forest Green, and a 5.5 mm hook. The yarn is soft and bouncy and the cardigan is really cozy and warm! I also like how there are no closures – no buttonholes or buttons, no zipper, no sash! The pattern is worked in separate pieces and then seamed. I crocheted the ribbed front edging separately, and then sewed it onto the completed cardigan. The pattern includes a ruffle that attaches to the ribbing, but I omitted that, since it looked too busy and frou-frou.

Based on reviews on Ravelry, it seemed like the cardigan size ran a bit large. I followed the directions for size Medium. The pattern has four sizes, from small to extra-large, with bust circumferences of 39″ to 51″. I think the Roundabout Cardigan would be very forgiving of even more sizes, since the front hangs open. If you wish the front to overlap, making the ribbed edging wider would be an easy fix. The pattern is 10 stitches across, but 15 would also work.

In the photos, I’m wearing my Roundabout Cardigan and my own B4686 skirt. The cardigan is plain enough that it works for lounging around the house as well as keeping me warm in my office at work.

I already crocheted cardigans for myself, the linen and lace cardigan and the chambray jacket, both using Louet Eurosport Flax yarn. Now that I’ve crocheted a few cardigans, I want to try my hand at knitting them! I especially love yoked designs that use stranded colourwork.

The free pattern for the Roundabout Cardigan is available here.