I’m so excited to share the Ella Crochet Baby Cardigan pattern with you! This sweet and simple design is perfect for layering and makes a lovely handmade gift for little ones. The pattern is beginner-friendly, works up quickly, and is completely FREE here on the blog—perfect for your next cozy project.
If you’d like this design in an ad-free format you can slip into a binder or basket, I’ve made a PDF just for you. You can grab it here and enjoy a cozier way to crochet.
Key Features
- Free pattern available on the blog
- Beginner-friendly and easy to follow (US Crochet Terms)
- Includes a step-by-step video tutorial
- Works up quickly with simple stitches
- Makes a thoughtful handmade gift
- Perfect layering piece for babies
- Optional ad-free PDF for easy printing
A SWEET, ELEGANT DESIGN
I love crocheting baby items and when I heard we had a new arrival in the family I decided to turn my hand to designing a sweet little cardigan for the new baby!
Cardigans are perfect for layering and can be used all year round, making them so practical. Throw them over a little spring or summer dress, or use one as an extra layer to keep baby cosy and warm during the colder winter months.
Whatever season you’re in now, you can be sure that baby will get good use out of it.
QUICK & EASY PROJECT
Offered in three different sizes, this crochet baby cardigan pattern is a quick and easy project for you as there’s no seaming or tricky assembly.
The pattern is the same for all three sizes (newborn, 0 – 3 months, 3 – 6 months) – all you need to do is switch up the hook size.
SIMPLE, TOP-DOWN DESIGN
The Ella cardie is a top-down design, so you’ll begin working from the neck edge downwards. The yoke of the cardigan is easy as it’s made up from alternating rows of single and double crochet.
For the skirt section, I decided to incorporate a special cluster stitch, which is made from a combination of a double crochet and half double crochet.
This type of cluster stitch is not difficult, your hook will be able to handle it with ease, and it creates a really lovely texture.
Once you’ve completed the main body of the cardigan, you’ll make your sleeves and then finish the cardie off with a simple edging of single crochet stitches… it couldn’t be any easier!
A PERFECT BABY SHOWER GIFT
The Ella baby cardigan with its simple design would make a lovely gift.
Most people are thrilled to receive a unique, handmade present for their baby… it certainly makes a lovely change from all the mass produced garments we seem to be surrounded with.
You can make the Ella cardigan just on its own, or team it with the matching hat, booties and blanket.
YARN USED
For this crochet baby cardigan pattern, I used 1 ball of Deramores Studio Baby Soft DK Acrylic.
Made from 100% acrylic, this yarn is so soft with a gorgeous, subtle sheen. The silkiness of this yarn gives the Ella crochet baby cardigan a lovely drape.
ALTERNATIVE YARN SUGGESTIONS:
Printable Crochet Baby Cardigan Pattern
Prefer a Printable Version? You can purchase the ad-free, printable PDF of this crochet baby cardigan pattern! It includes all the same information as the free version… it’s just in a more convenient, easy-to-read format (perfect for crocheting on-the-go or on the couch!).
This cardigan is also part of a Crochet Pattern Bundle! Check it out here
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PDF PRINTABLE PATTERN
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FREE PATTERN: ELLA CROCHET BABY CARDIGAN
Please carefully read all the information below.
LEVEL
Easy. See details of project difficulty levels at the Craft Yarn Council website.
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Pattern Notes
- US crochet terms used.
- You can use any #3 / light worsted / DK / 8 ply yarn for this project, providing you meet the gauge as detailed below.
- There are three sizes available: newborn, 0-3 months and 3-6 months. The instructions are the same for all three sizes – all you need to do is use a different sized crochet hook to achieve each size (details in ‘Materials’ below).
- Cardigan is worked in one piece from neck edge down.
- The ch3 turning chain counts as the first stitch of the next row; please do not crochet into the same stitch. Instead, make one double crochet into the next stitch. At the end of rows, it’s important that you crochet into the top of the beginning ch3.
- The ch1 turning chain does not count as the first stitch of the next row. Therefore, you should make the first stitch of the row in the same stitch (at the base of the ch1). At the end of rows, do not crochet into the top of the ch1.
- For the sleeves: The ch2 turning chain counts as the first stitch of the next round; please do not crochet into the same stitch. Instead, make one double crochet into the next stitch. At the end of rounds, you will slip stitch into the top of the beginning ch2 to join.
MATERIALS
YARN
Category #3 / light worsted / DK / 8 ply yarn. I used 1 ball of Deramores Studio Baby Soft DK Acrylic, 360 yds / 3.5 oz (330m / 100g). For the cream cardigan I used the colour Ice Cream (70102); for the beige cardigan, I used the colour Sand (70124).
ALTERNATIVE YARN SUGGESTIONS
CROCHET HOOK
Newborn G (4mm)
0–3 months Size 7 (4.5mm)
3–6 months H (5mm)
EXTRAS
3 buttons: 9/16 inch (14mm) approximately
Yarn needle (the bent tip makes sewing and weaving in ends much easier)
Scissors (super sharp… and pretty)
Optional: Stitch markers x 2
GAUGE / TENSION
In order to achieve the correct size and fit, it is important to test your gauge with a sample square before you begin.
If your tension is tight (too many stitches to 4″), try using a larger hook.
If your tension is loose (fewer stitches to 4″), use a smaller hook.
Newborn (G / 4mm hook):
18 stitches & 10 rows = 4″ (10cm) in double crochet
0 – 3 months (size 7 / 4.5mm hook):
26 stitches & 15 rows = 6” (15cm) in double crochet
3 – 6 months (H / 5mm hook):
16 stitches & 9 rows = 4” in double crochet
FINISHED SIZE
The sizes given are based on the standard measurements from the Craft Yarn Council. The cardigan has been designed with some positive ease, which means that it will quite comfortably fit over clothing. And knowing how quickly babies tend to develop, it will leave enough room for baby to grow into also!
STITCHES & ABBREVIATIONS (US CROCHET TERMS)
beg – beginning
ch(s) – chain(s)
dc – double crochet: Yarn over (yo), insert hook into stitch, yo, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Yo, pull through 2 loops (2 loops on hook). Yo, pull through remaining 2 loops. 1 double crochet completed.
dc2tog – double crochet two together (also known as a dc decrease): Yarn over (yo), insert hook into stitch, yo, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Yo, pull through 2 loops (2 loops on hook). Yo, insert hook into next st, yo, pull up a loop (4 loops on hook). Yo, pull through 2 loops (3 loops on hook). Yo, pull through remaining 3 loops. Dc2tog completed.
fasten off – To fasten off securely, work one chain, then cut the yarn leaving a 5 – 6” tail. Pull the tail through the loop that is on your hook. Tighten gently.
sc – single crochet: Insert hook into stitch, yarn over (yo), pull up a loop (2 loops on hook). Yo, pull through both loops on hook. 1 single crochet completed.
sl st – slip stitch: Insert hook into stitch, yarn over (yo), pull up a loop, you will have 2 loops on your hook. Pull the first loop through the second loop. 1 slip stitch completed.
st(s) – stitch(es)
Turn: I prefer to turn my work clockwise.
* to * – Repeat instructions between asterisks as many times as directed.
( ) – Sets of stitches to be worked as many times as directed.
[ ] – The total number of stitches at the end of a row.
SPECIAL STITCHES
SpCL – special cluster: 1 double crochet and 1 half double crochet worked together as follows: yarn over (yo), insert hook into stitch, yo, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook), yo, pull through first 2 loops (2 loops on hook), yo, insert hook into same stitch, yo, pull up a loop (4 loops on hook), yo, pull through all 4 loops. 1 special cluster completed.
INSTRUCTIONS
YOKE
Chain 57
Row 1. 1sc in 2nd ch from hook, 1sc in every ch until end of the foundation chain, TURN [56 sts].
Row 2. Ch3 (counts as your first st here and throughout), 1dc in next 2 sts, 2dc in next st, *1dc in next 3 sts, 2dc in next st*, repeat from * to * across to end of row, TURN [70sts].
Row 3. Ch1 (does not count as your first st here and throughout), 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 69 sts, TURN (70 sts).
Row 4. Ch3, 1dc in next 3 sts, 2dc in next st, *1dc in next 4 sts, 2dc in next st*, repeat from * to * across to end of row, TURN [84sts].
Row 5. Ch1 (does not count as your first st here and throughout), 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 83 sts, TURN (84 sts).
Row 6. Ch3, 1dc in next 4 sts, 2dc in next st, *1dc in next 5 sts, 2dc in next st*, repeat from * to * across to end of row, TURN [98 sts].
Row 7. Ch1 (does not count as your first st here and throughout), 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 97 sts, TURN (98sts).
Row 8. Ch3, 1dc in next 5 sts, 2dc in next st, *1dc in next 6 sts, 2dc in next st*, repeat from * to * across to end of row, TURN [112 sts].
Row 9. Ch1 (does not count as your first st here and throughout), 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 111 sts, TURN (112sts).
Row 10. Ch3, 1dc in next 6 sts, 2dc in next st, *1dc in next 7 sts, 2dc in next st*, repeat from * to * across to end of row, TURN [126 sts].
Row 11. Ch1 (does not count as your first st here and throughout), 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 125 sts, TURN (126 sts).
At this point, the length from the neck edge to the end of row 11 should measure:
Newborn: 2.5″
0-3 months: 3.25″
3 – 6 months: 3.5″
DIVIDE FOR ARMHOLES
In row 12 you will create two little armholes.
Row 12. Ch3, 1dc in next 17 sts, sk next 27 sts, 1dc in next 36 sts, sk next 27 sts, 1dc in next 18 sts, TURN [72 sts].
As you can see from the image below, you have divided your onesie for the sleeves and have created two armholes:
Row 13. Ch3, SpCL in next 70 sts, 1hdc in top of beg ch3 TURN [ch3, 70 SpCL, 1hdc].
Rows 14 – 26: Repeat Row 13.
Cut yarn, fasten off and weave in ends.
Here is what your work should be looking like at the end of row 26:
Tired of scrolling?
You can grab the printable, ad-free PDF version of the Ella Cardigan here:
It’s much easier to follow and perfect for printing or using on your mobile or tablet.
SLEEVES
It’s time to work on the sleeves now.
You will be working into the 27 stitches that you skipped in row 12 (I placed 1 stitch marker in both the 1st and 27th st, as seen in the photo below).
3 extra stitches will also be created, giving you a total of 30 stitches when working the sleeves:
With your cardigan facing you as seen in the photo below, attach your yarn to the centre stitch at the underarm area:
Round 1. Ch2 (counts as your first st here and throughout), 1dc in next dc row end, 1dc in next 27 sts, 1dc in next dc row end, sl st to top of beg ch2 to join, TURN [30 sts].
Round 2. Ch1 (does not count as your 1st st here and throughout), 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 29 sts, sl st to 1st sc to join, TURN [30 sts].
Round 3. Ch2, 1dc in next 29 sts, sl st to top of beg ch2 to join, TURN, [30 sts].
Round 4. Ch1, 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 29 sts, sl st to 1st sc to join, TURN [30 sts].
Rounds 5 – 14: Repeat rounds 3 and 4.
Round 15: Ch2, dc2tog. 1dc in next 25 sts, dc2tog, sl st to top of beg ch2 to join, TURN, [28 sts].
Round 16: Ch1, 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 27 sts, sl st to 1st sc to join, TURN [28 sts].
Round 17: Ch2, dc2tog. 1dc in next 23 sts, dc2tog, sl st to top of beg ch2 to join, TURN, [26 sts].
Round 18: Ch1, 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 25 sts, sl st to 1st sc to join, TURN [26 sts].
Round 19: Ch2, 1dc in next 25 sts, sl st to top of beg ch2 to join, TURN, [26 sts].
Round 20: Ch1, 1sc in same st, 1sc in next 25 sts, sl st to 1st sc to join, TURN [26 sts].
At the end of round 20, cut your yarn, fasten off and weave in your ends.
Repeat the same process for the other sleeve.
FRONT, NECK AND BOTTOM EDGING
I decided to work single crochet edging up the right front panel (3 button loops will also be made), around the neckline, down the left front panel and around the bottom of the cardigan.
The edging is made in one continuous round.
To begin, attach your yarn to the opening of the cardigan, at the bottom of the right front panel:
Round 1.
Edging up right front panel:
Ch1, (2sc in each SpCL row end) 13 times, (1sc, ch3) in next dc row end, 1sc in next sc row end (1st button loop made), 1sc in next dc row end, 1sc in next sc row end, (1sc, ch3) in next dc row end, 1sc in next sc row end (2nd button loop made), 1sc in next dc row end, 1sc in next sc row end, 1sc in next dc row end, (1sc, ch3) in next sc row end, 1sc in last dc row end (3rd button loop made),
Edging along neckline:
2sc in corner st at neck edge, 1sc in each st along neckline, 2sc in corner st at neck edge on the left side,
Edging down left front panel:
(1sc in next sc row end, 1 sc in next dc row end) 6 times, (2sc in each SpCL row end) 13 times,
Edging along bottom:
*2sc in next SpCL, 1sc in next SpCL*, repeat from * to * until 1st sc of the round, sl st to 1st sc to join round.
Cut yarn, fasten off and weave in ends.
Sew your three buttons on the left side of the cardigan, making sure that they are aligned with the button loops on the right side.
And that’s your Ella cardigan all finished! I loved sharing this pattern with you, and I hope it brings you as much joy to make as it did for me. If you’d like a keepsake version to crochet from your favourite chair, you can purchase and download the pretty, ad-free PDF here
PATTERN SUPPORT
Need Help with a Pattern?
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Pop into the Facebook group and join our cozy little community—we’d absolutely love to see you there!💛
SHARE YOUR WORK!
I really hope that you enjoyed this free crochet pattern! I would LOVE to see photos of your completed project… please tag me on Instagram using @maisieandruth and / or #maisieandruth
And remember to pin this pattern for later if you can’t make it right now!
COPYRIGHT
Copyright © 2021 by Maisie and Ruth Limited. All rights reserved. This crochet baby cardigan pattern for the Ella Cardigan is for personal viewing only. You may view it for free on this blog, but it is protected under applicable copyrights, trademarks, and other proprietary (including but not limited to intellectual property) rights.
You may not copy, redistribute, or sell this pattern in any form, including digital, printed or photographic formats without permission. Sharing this pattern (in whole or in part) on social media, websites, or messaging platforms is strictly prohibited. This is a theft of the author’s intellectual property, which may result in civil or criminal penalties.
Thank you for respecting my work and for your continued support — it truly means a lot!
FAQ:
Q: Is this crochet baby cardigan pattern beginner-friendly?
Yes! This free crochet baby cardigan pattern is written with beginners in mind. If you know basic stitches like chain, single crochet, and double crochet, you’ll be able to follow along easily.
Q: What yarn works best for a crochet baby cardigan?
Soft, washable yarns such as cotton or baby acrylic blends are perfect. They’re gentle on sensitive skin and easy to care for, which makes them ideal for baby clothes.
Q: What sizes does this baby cardigan pattern include?
This free crochet baby cardigan pattern is for newborns to 6 months of age. The instructions are the same for all sizes – you’ll just adjust your hook size to obtain the desired fit.
Q: How long does it take to crochet a baby cardigan?
Most crocheters can complete this pattern in a few evenings. It’s a quick project compared to adult garments, making it a wonderful handmade baby gift idea.
Q: Can I get a printable version of this pattern?
Yes! While the full instructions are available for free in this post, you can also purchase a beautifully formatted, ad-free PDF crochet baby cardigan pattern for convenience.
SHARE YOUR WORK!
I really hope that you enjoyed this free crochet pattern! I would LOVE to see photos of your completed project… please tag me on Instagram using @maisieandruth and / or #maisieandruth
And remember to pin this pattern for later if you can’t make it right now!
Love the pattern.
How to get size 6-12 month pattern?
Thank you, glad you like the design! 🥰
I’ve only designed the cardigan for up to 6 months of age.
For 6-12 months you could try using a #4 / worsted / Aran / 12 ply yarn and a H (5mm) crochet hook.
As you’re making it, periodically place it up against an existing cardigan / sweater to see how you’re getting on for size (you may need to adjust the hook size as you go along).
Hope this helps and good luck!
Hi, thanks to your amazing videos and instructions I am now mastering and enjoying crochet! Have made the baby blanket and just finished the baby cardigan which was a little more challenging but well worth it. Thank you.
That’s really great to hear, thank you so much! 🥰 Keep up the good work – crochet has so many benefits, it’s a wonderful hobby to have 💕💕
Bedankt voor dit mooie patroon, dat jij, ook voor beginners als ik toegankelijk hebt gemaakt!
Na het haken van het lijfje heb ik de draad niet afgehecht, maar heb ik gelijk de omrandend gehaakt. Hiermee kon ik ook de begin draad in de hals wegwerken, en het scheelt weer een extra draad afhechten.
Dat is geweldig! 😀 Ik ben blij dat je de tutorial leuk vond. Goed werk… heel logisch!
Adorable and classy! I can’t wait to work this up! I’ll make several to have handy for upcoming baby showers etc
Thank you so much! What a good idea… enjoy! 😀💞
How do I print out the pattern please
You can purchase a printable, PDF version of this pattern here: https://tidd.ly/4noKz2z Thank you and enjoy! 💕