Simple Crochet Kimono Cardigan Tutorial | Perfect for Spring

Simple Crochet Kimono Cardigan Tutorial | Perfect for Spring

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Crocheting the Rectangles
4. Assembling the Cardigan
5. Creating the Back Panel
6. Sewing the Armholes
7. Final Touches
8. Variations and Size Adjustments
9. Tips and Tricks
10. Conclusion

Crocheting the Springtime Kimono Cardigan

The Springtime Kimono Cardigan is an easy and stylish project that can be made with just two identical rectangles. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process and provide detailed instructions so that you can create your own cardigan. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this project is perfect for anyone looking to add a fashionable and versatile garment to their wardrobe.

Introduction

The Springtime Kimono Cardigan is a lightweight and comfortable garment that is perfect for the spring and summer seasons. It can be worn casually or dressed up for special occasions. The best part is that it can be made in various sizes, allowing you to customize it to fit your preferences. In this tutorial, we will take you through each step of the process, from crocheting the rectangles to sewing the armholes. So grab your crochet hook and let's get started!

Materials Needed

Before we begin, let's gather all the materials needed to make the Springtime Kimono Cardigan. Here's a list of what you'll need:

• Crochet hook (size 6mm)
• Yarn needle
• Pair of scissors
• Stitch marker
• Clips or additional stitch markers (optional)

For this project, we recommend using a cotton or acrylic yarn in a weight that is suitable for the season. Choose a color that matches your style and preferences. Once you have all your materials ready, we can move on to crocheting the rectangles.

Crocheting the Rectangles

To start, we will crochet two identical rectangles that will serve as the main panels of the kimono cardigan. The size of the rectangles will determine the overall width and length of the cardigan. Follow these steps to crochet the rectangles:

1. Chain Foundation: Start by creating a foundation chain of 126 stitches. The length of your foundation chain will determine the desired length of your cardigan. For a longer cardigan, simply add more chains to the foundation.
2. Row 1: In this row, make a single crochet stitch in each chain across. This will create the base row for your rectangles.
3. Row 2: Make one single crochet stitch in each stitch across the row. This will continue to build the height and width of your rectangles.
4. Row 3: In this row, we will create a criss-cross triple crochet stitch pattern. Skip one stitch, then make a triple crochet stitch in the next stitch. Repeat this pattern across the row, alternating the skipped stitch and the triple crochet stitch.

Continue repeating rows 1, 2, and 3 until your rectangles measure approximately 15 inches in width. Remember to fasten off and weave in any loose ends as you go along. Once you have completed the rectangles, we can move on to assembling the cardigan.

Assembling the Cardigan

Now that you have your two rectangles, it's time to assemble the cardigan. Follow these steps to join the rectangles and create the main body of the kimono cardigan:

1. Fold in Half: Take each rectangle and fold it in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides facing each other. This will create a crease in the middle of each rectangle.
2. Sewing the Back Panel: Using a yarn needle, sew along the creases of the rectangles, joining them in the middle. This will create the back panel of the cardigan.

Once you have sewn the back panel, it's time to create the armholes. Using a stitch marker, mark the desired length for the armholes on each side of the cardigan. This will vary depending on your arm size and preference. From the marked point, begin sewing down to the bottom of the cardigan, leaving the armhole open. Repeat this step on the other side.

Creating the Back Panel

The back panel of the kimono cardigan adds structure and shape to the garment. By sewing the two rectangles together down the middle, you create a defined back panel that gives the cardigan its distinct style. Here's how to create the back panel:

1. Fold and Match: Take each rectangle and fold it in half lengthwise, matching up the edges with the wrong sides facing each other.
2. Sewing Along the Crease: Using a yarn needle, sew along the crease of each rectangle, joining them in the middle. This will create the back panel of the cardigan.

Once you have sewn the back panel, you can move on to sewing the armholes and completing the cardigan.

Pros:

• Simple construction using two rectangles
• Versatile garment suitable for various occasions
• Customizable size and length
• Lightweight and comfortable for spring and summer wear

Cons:

• May require some sewing skills to assemble the cardigan
• Limited color options based on yarn availability

Sewing the Armholes

The armholes are an essential part of the kimono cardigan, as they allow for easy arm movement and add a stylish touch to the overall design. Here's how to sew the armholes:

1. Measure Armhole Length: Using a stitch marker, measure and mark the desired length for the armholes on each side of the cardigan. This will vary depending on your arm size and preference.
2. Sewing Along the Marked Line: Starting from the marked point, sew down to the bottom of the cardigan, leaving the armhole open. Repeat this step on the other side.

Once you have sewn the armholes, your cardigan is almost complete. All that's left is to add any final touches and make any necessary adjustments.