This crochet lace cardigan is a perfect example of how handmade garments can be both delicate and functional. Designed in a soft, openwork pattern, this cardigan is lightweight, breathable, and ideal for spring and summer wear. The simple round neckline, three-quarter sleeves, and button-front opening give it a classic silhouette that pairs beautifully with dresses, skirts, or casual tops.
The lace stitch pattern creates a graceful texture while keeping the garment cool and comfortable. Worked mostly in simple repeats, this design is suitable for confident beginners and intermediate crocheters who want to explore garment construction without complicated shaping.
This cardigan works especially well in cotton or cotton-blend yarns, giving crisp stitch definition and a polished finish.
Skill Level
Intermediate Beginner
Materials Required
- Yarn: Light Worsted / DK (Category 3)
- Approx. 700–900 yards (size dependent)
- Cotton or cotton-blend recommended
- Crochet hook: 4.0 mm (G/6)
- 4–5 small buttons
- Stitch markers
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- hdc = half double crochet
- dc = double crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- sp = space
- rep = repeat
Sizes
Written for Small (Medium, Large)
Adjustable by stitch multiples and length.
Gauge
4 lace repeats = approx. 10 cm (4 in)
Adjust hook size if needed.
Stitch Pattern (Lace Mesh)
Repeat across:
- dc, ch 1, skip 1 st
Crochet Pattern: Lace Cardigan
Back Panel
- Ch 82 (90, 98)
- Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook, ch 1, skip 1 ch, dc across, turn
- Row 2: Ch 3, dc in first dc sp, ch 1, dc in next sp across, turn
- Repeat Row 2 until back measures 38–40 cm
- Fasten off
Front Panels (Make 2)
- Ch 42 (46, 50)
- Work same lace pattern as back
- Work until length matches back
- Shape neckline:
- Decrease 1 lace repeat at neck edge every other row (3 times)
- Fasten off
Shoulders
- Seam front panels to back at shoulders using slip stitch or mattress stitch
Sleeves (Make 2)
- Attach yarn at armhole
- Ch 3, work lace pattern evenly around opening
- Join to work in rounds
- Continue lace pattern until sleeve length is ¾ length (about 28–30 cm)
- Finish with 2 rounds of hdc for cuff
- Fasten off
Edging & Button Bands
- Attach yarn to front opening
- Work sc evenly along edge
- On right front: create buttonholes
- Sc 2, ch 2, skip 2 sts
- Work 2 more rows of sc
- Repeat sc edging around neckline and hem
Finishing
- Sew buttons evenly on opposite side
- Weave in all ends
- Lightly block to shape lace
Customization Tips
- Make it longer for tunic style
- Shorten sleeves for summer shrug
- Add contrast edging for a modern look
- Use bamboo yarn for additional drape
Where You Can Wear It
- Everyday casual outfits
- Office layering
- Evening summer wear
- Special occasions or handmade gifts
