Adorable Crochet Raglan Cardigan Pattern That’s Totally Free

Try this cozy Free Crochet Raglan Cardigan Pattern for wearing; customize the fit, and colors to suit your wardrobe and personal style.

A warm, hand-stitched cardigan is the perfect everyday layer for colder months. Using a Free Crochet Raglan Cardigan Pattern, you can stitch a relaxed and flattering style that features raglan shaping for a seamless shoulder fit. This cardigan works well for casual outings, cozy evenings at home, or even as a stylish piece to top off a simple outfit. Pair it effortlessly with jeans, tights, or flowy dresses for versatility in any season.

Raglan Cardigan Crochet Pattern That’s Easy & Free

The stitchwork often results in soft textures that provide both comfort and style. With options to customize the length, sleeve type, and color combinations, this cardigan becomes a practical addition to any wardrobe. Beyond its functional purpose, it’s a great project for anyone who enjoys adding handmade touches to their clothing collection.

Step-by-Step Crochet Top-Down Cardigan Pattern:

Materials

• Yarn: Nut yarn (100% acrylic, 189 g, 306 yards) or similar medium-weight yarn (#4). Choose colors of your choice for the body and trims.
• Hook: 5mm crochet hook (or as recommended for your yarn).
• Notions: Scissors, 4 stitch markers, darning needle.

Gauge

Gauge is crucial for sizing.

• 10 x 10 cm swatch = 14 double crochet stitches x 8 rows.

Adjust hook size if your stitches are too tight or too loose.

Finished Sizes

This pattern is customizable. For the Extra Large size, key measurements include:

• Starting chain: 85 stitches.
• Cardigan length: Approx. 60-65 rows.
• Sleeve length: 25 rows before ribbing.
• Pocket Size: 6.5″ wide x 7.5″ tall.

Adjust row/chain counts for different sizes as indicated in the instructions.

Special Techniques

1. Front Post and Back Post Double Crochet (FPDC/BPDC): These stitches create the ribbing effect. A front post is done by working the stitch around the front of a post from the previous row. A back post is worked around the back of the post instead.
2. Mesh Stitch: Alternates between double crochet stitches and chain spaces for a light and airy texture.
3. Back Loop Only: To create texture, some rows are worked through the back loop of stitches.

Pattern Instructions

Section 1: Yoke

This section builds the foundation, forming the neck, shoulders, and back.

1. Foundation Chain:
   Chain 85 (for Extra Large size). Adjust according to your size:
   • Small (Ch 65), Medium (Ch 75), Large (Ch 80), Extra Large (Ch 85).
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2. Marking the Corners:
   Use stitch markers to mark the 4 corners of your yoke. These are the points where you’ll create increases:
   • Count 15 chains, place a marker on the 15th stitch (front panel).
   • Count 29 more chains, place a marker on the 44th stitch (sleeve #1).
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   • Count 29 chains again, place a marker on the 73rd stitch (back).
   • The remaining 12 stitches will make the second sleeve and front panel.
3. Row 1 (Setup Row):
   • Yarn over, make a double crochet (DC) in the second chain from the hook.
   • Work 1 DC in each chain until you reach the first marker.
   • At the marker: Make [1 DC, Ch 2, 1 DC] in the marked stitch. Replace the marker in the Ch-2 space.
   • Continue with 1 DC in each chain until the next marker, and repeat the increase [1 DC, Ch 2, 1 DC].
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   • Repeat this for all four corners. Continue with DC until the end of the row.
4. Row 2–22 (Yoke Growth):
   • Odd rows: DC across the row, and make [1 DC, Ch 2, 1 DC] in each Ch-2 space (corners).
   • Even rows: Alternate double crochets and chain spaces for a mesh texture.
   • Stop after Row 22 or adjust for your preferred yoke size.
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Section 2: Split for Body and Sleeves

1. Separate Sleeves:
   • When your yoke reaches your desired size, fold it at the shoulder seam and identify the armholes.
   • At each corner (Ch-2 space), join the front and back panel with a DC into the corner spaces, skipping over the stitches for the sleeves.
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2. Body:
   • Continue working rows of DC across the back and front panels, skipping the sleeve areas.
   • Make as many rows as needed for your desired cardigan length (suggested: 60 rows).
   • Optional: Add stripes or color changes for a stylish accent.
3. Sleeves:
   • Attach yarn at the underarm seam of each sleeve.
   • Work alternating rows of the mesh stitch and standard DC rows for 25 rows or until desired sleeve length.
   • Finish the sleeve with 5 rows of front post and back post double crochet ribbing.

Section 3: Ribbing

1. Bottom Ribbing:
   • Attach yarn to the bottom edge of the cardigan.
   • Work alternating front post double crochet (FPDC) and back post double crochet (BPDC) stitches across the row.
   • Chain 1, turn, and repeat the FPDC/BPDC pattern until you have 5 rows of ribbing.
2. Neckline Ribbing:
   • Attach yarn to one side of the neckline.
   • Work FPDC and BPDC stitches around the neckline for 3 rows. Finish with a row of single crochet stitches for a neat edge.
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Section 4: Pockets

1. Pocket Construction:
   • Chain 25 and work 13 rows of DC (back loop only for texture). Finish with 2 rows of FPDC/BPDC ribbing along the top edge of the pocket.
2. Attach Pockets:
   • Use stitch markers to pin the pockets onto the cardigan, ensuring they are level and symmetrical.
   • Sew around the edges, leaving the ribbed opening at the top. Weave in all ends.
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Optional Edging:

Add extra rows of single crochet around the entire cardigan and sleeves for a polished finish.

Finishing

1. Weave in all loose ends neatly using a darning needle.
2. Block the cardigan if necessary to achieve the correct shape and drape.
3. Check all seams for security and make any final adjustments to fit.

Final Words and Tips

1. Customizing the Fit:
   • For a looser fit, add more chains to your foundation chain and adjust the row count accordingly.
   • For fitted sleeves, decrease stitches by working FPDC/BPDC across 2 stitches as needed.
2. Caring for the Cardigan:
   • Since the yarn is acrylic, machine wash on a gentle cycle or hand wash in cold water. Lay flat to dry to maintain its shape.
3. Accessorizing:
   • Add buttons or attach a belt for extra style.
   • You can also make matching scarves or hats with the leftover yarn.
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This Top-Down Cardigan is versatile, cozy, and entirely customizable. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a gift, this project is sure to impress and keep you warm!