Bayberry Cardigan – Free Lacy Crochet Cardigan Pattern (XS–5X)

The Bayberry Cardigan crochet pattern is everything you want in a handmade garment—stylish, customizable, and comfortable to wear. This free crochet cardigan pattern is designed to be a long, lacy, open front cardigan with adjustable length and sleeves, plus an optional belt for added shaping.

Written in adult sizes XS through 5X, it’s truly a size-inclusive crochet cardigan pattern that flatters all body types. And if you love making matching sets, there’s also a child-size Bayberry Cardigan available so you can create coordinating looks.

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When you’re looking for a project that blends relaxing stitches with stunning results, the Bayberry Cardigan crochet pattern is a must-make. The lacy stitch pattern is light and airy, giving the cardigan beautiful drape and movement. Since it’s an open front crochet cardigan, you can throw it on over any outfit to instantly upgrade your look.

Whether you’re crocheting your first adult garment or you’ve made plenty of sweaters before, this cardigan strikes the perfect balance between easy construction and elegant design.

Why You’ll Love This Free Crochet Cardigan Pattern

This isn’t just another cardigan—it’s a handmade wardrobe essential.

Lacy stitch design makes it breezy enough for warm weather but cozy with long sleeves in winter.
Open front construction is flattering, flexible, and easy to wear.
Customizable fit with adjustable length and sleeve options.
Optional belt allows you to change up the look and add shaping at the waist.
Written for XS–5X so everyone can enjoy making and wearing it.

If you’ve ever wanted a cardigan that works with dresses, jeans, or leggings alike, this free crochet cardigan pattern has you covered.

Features of the Bayberry Cardigan

A Lacy Crochet Cardigan That’s Timeless

The lace stitch pattern keeps the fabric light, giving it a breathable feel and soft drape. It’s textured enough to be visually interesting, but not so fussy that it overpowers your outfit.

An Open Front Cardigan with Custom Fit

The open front design makes this cardigan easy to layer over anything. It’s flattering for all body types and can be styled casually or dressed up.

Adjustable Length, Sleeves, and Belt Options

You choose the final look. Make it hip-length for a casual shrug or go longer for a dramatic duster cardigan. Pick between short, three-quarter, or long sleeves. Add a crocheted belt to cinch the waist—or leave it flowing for boho chic.

Size-Inclusive Crochet Cardigan Pattern (XS–5X)

One of the best things about this design is that it’s written for nine adult sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X, and 5X. The Bayberry Cardigan crochet pattern is intentionally designed with a relaxed fit, so it’s forgiving and flattering on all shapes.

If you prefer a looser drape, size up. For a more tailored fit, make the size closest to your actual measurements. Because of the modular construction, it’s easy to add or subtract rows to fine-tune your custom fit.

Gray Bayberry Cardigan Crochet Pattern on woman in park

Customizing your Crochet Cardigan

The Bayberry Cardigan crochet pattern is designed with flexibility in mind, so you can tailor it to match your personal style while still keeping the beautiful lacy look.

Length Options – Work fewer rows for a shorter, casual cardigan, or extend the length for a dramatic duster-style piece.
Sleeve Choices – Choose sleeveless, short sleeves, three-quarter sleeves, or full-length sleeves depending on the season and your preferred style.
Belt Option – Add a crocheted belt (or use one you already own) to cinch the waist and give the cardigan a more fitted silhouette.
Fiber Choices – While the pattern requires worsted weight (#4) yarn for proper sizing and drape, you can explore different fibers. Cotton, bamboo, or linen blends give it a lighter, breathable finish, with a sheen, while acrylic or wool blends make it warmer, cozier, but matte.
*Make sure to match the pattern gauge!
Color Play – Neutrals like cream, black, or gray create a classic, versatile garment, while bold jewel tones or gradient yarns transform the cardigan into a statement piece.
Fit Adjustments – Stick to your true size for a tailored fit or size up for an oversized, relaxed look.

Even with the set yarn weight requirement, these customization options ensure that every Bayberry Cardigan you make can feel completely unique.

Styling the Bayberry Cardigan Crochet Pattern

One of the reasons the Bayberry Cardigan crochet pattern is such a favorite is its ability to adapt to different outfits, occasions, and even seasons. With its lacy stitch design and open-front construction, this cardigan instantly elevates your look without sacrificing comfort.

Dress It Up for Special Occasions

For weddings, brunches, or evenings out, the Bayberry Cardigan layers beautifully over dresses and skirts. Try pairing it with a flowy maxi dress for a breezy, boho-inspired outfit, or slip it on over a slim-fit cocktail dress for an elegant touch. Adding the optional belt defines your waistline and creates a polished, pulled-together look that feels chic yet effortless. Neutral tones like black or cream keep it classic, while a jewel-tone cardigan—think sapphire or emerald—adds a bold statement.

Casual Everyday Layering

On more relaxed days, style your Bayberry Cardigan with jeans and a simple t-shirt or tank top. The lacy design makes even the most basic outfit feel intentional and stylish. Pair it with ankle boots in fall or sandals in summer for a versatile, year-round outfit. You can also throw it over leggings and a tunic top for errands, coffee dates, or working from home. It’s cozy without being bulky, making it perfect for those in-between weather days.

Belted for a Fitted Look

Want something a little more structured? Use the optional crochet belt or a slim leather belt from your closet to cinch the cardigan at the waist. This instantly transforms the look from flowy and relaxed to office-appropriate or dinner-ready. Belted styling works especially well when layering over straight-leg trousers, pencil skirts, or fitted dresses, giving you a more tailored silhouette.

Seasonal Versatility

Because the Bayberry Cardigan is lightweight but still substantial, you’ll find yourself reaching for it in every season.

Spring: Toss it over a floral sundress for an extra layer during cool mornings.
Summer: Use it as a breezy coverup for sleeveless tops or even as a stylish beach layer over swimsuits.
Fall: Pair it with jeans, boots, and a scarf for that cozy autumn vibe.
Winter: Work it up in a warm fiber like wool blend and wear it over long sleeves for a soft, snuggly extra layer.

No matter how you style it, the Bayberry Cardigan crochet pattern is the kind of handmade garment that works just as well for special occasions as it does for everyday wear.

Matching Child Size Bayberry Cardigan

For an extra special touch, you can make the matching child-size Bayberry Cardigan. It features the same lace stitch design, open front, and customization options. Together, they’re perfect for:

Mommy-and-me photo shoots
Handmade holiday gifts
Coordinating family outfits

If you love making pieces that connect generations, this is a pattern set you don’t want to miss.

Tips for Crocheting the Bayberry Cardigan

Making a garment can feel intimidating, but this pattern makes it approachable.

Swatch for gauge – Getting gauge ensures the cardigan fits properly.

Pick yarn with drape – Acrylics & wool are warm and sturdier, while fibers like bamboo or cotton blend will be more flowy.

Use stitch markers – They’ll help keep track of lace repeats.

Try it on as you go – The open design makes it easy to check fit while working.

Block your finished cardigan – Blocking opens up the lace and smooths the fabric.

Time Commitment and Skill Level

The Bayberry Cardigan crochet pattern is designed for intermediate crocheters. The lace stitch repeat is easy to memorize once you’ve worked a few rows, but the shaping, seaming, and attention to stitch counts make this project more advanced than a beginner-friendly cardigan. If you’ve completed a few garments or enjoy working with lace stitches, you’ll find this pattern both approachable and rewarding.

In terms of time, expect this to be a longer project compared to accessories or small wearables. On average:

Marathon Crocheters can finish this in a week or less, possibly even a weekend, working on it in marathon sessions of a few hours or more a day.
Consistent crocheters may finish in about 2–3 weeks, working a little each day.
Casual crocheters who pick it up in the evenings or on weekends may need 4–6 weeks to complete.
Yarn and size choice can affect the timeline—larger sizes and longer lengths naturally take more time.

While the Bayberry Cardigan isn’t a “weekend project,” it’s the kind of make that feels worth every stitch. Watching the lacy fabric grow row by row is satisfying, and the finished garment is something you’ll reach for season after season.

How to Get the Bayberry Crochet Cardigan Pattern

how to get the

Bayberry Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Option 1: Continue scrolling for free pattern instructions on this site

Option 2: Purchase the ad-free PDF that includes tutorial photos from one of my shops

ETSY

RAVELRY

About the Materials

The Bayberry Cardigan shown was made with Lion Brand Pound of Love. A good substitute for this yarn is Knit Picks Brava. You can also use a yarn with different fibers. For instance, if you prefer wools, try Lion Brand Wool Ease or Knit Picks Wool of the Andes, but again, make sure the gauge is the same as what the pattern states.

You will need both the 10.00mm crochet hook and a 6.50mm crochet hook to make this sweater, plus a yarn needle and scissors.

The Crochet Pattern

Keep reading for a list of what you need to make the Bayberry Cardigan for Adults, including the stitch pattern instructions!

Materials

Light Worsted Weight Yarn (#4)

1200(1350,1500,1650, 1750,1850,1950,2050,2150)yds

P/11/10.00mm Crochet Hook

K/10.5/6.50mm Crochet Hook

Measuring Tape

Yarn Needle

Scissors

Optional Materials:

Stitch Markers (Marking panels)

Sewing Clips (Attaching hood)

Premade Belt

Gauge

3 stitch groups x 6 rows = 4” with P Hook

See Notes for Explanation

Sizes

Women’s (Bust)

XS (28-30”/71-76cm)

S (32-34”/81-86cm)

M (36-38”/92-97cm)

L (40-42”/102-107cm)

XL (44-46”/111-117cm)

2X (48-50”/122-127cm)

3X (52-54”/132-137cm)

4X (56-58”/142-147cm)

5X (60-62”/152-158cm)

Stitch Guide

arnd = around

ch = chain

cts = counts

dc = double crochet

hdc = half double crochet

sc = single crochet

sl st(s) = slip stitch(es)

Skill Level

Intermediate

Pattern Written in U.S. Crochet Terms

Pattern Notes

Beginning chains count as stitches.
This pattern is worked from the bottom up.
Where asterisks appear, repeat the instructions between them.
Pattern is written for smallest size, with changes for larger sizes in parenthesis.
Final row count shows smallest size in parenthesis and larger sizes in brackets.
This cardigan is written for a 4-6” positive ease.
For gauge: 3 stitch groups = (sc, ch 3, sc), (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc), (sc, ch 3, sc). These three groups equals 4 inches across using 10.00mm crochet hook.
The center of the cardigan is worked with the smaller hook to create a subtle shaping at the waist, but the larger hook can be used if a relaxed fit is preferred.
The sleeves start with the larger hook and change to the smaller hook for fitted look, but the larger hook can be used if looser sleeves are preferred.
There are tutorial photos and schematics included in the PDF version.

Finishing Options

Length: Shorten or lengthen the cardigan by adjusting the body length before switching to the smaller hook. The pattern is written for knee-length on an average 5’4” height. The model shown is 5’0” and the pattern as written is a duster for this height. – Adjust length from the average height: For a duster length: add 5-10”; For a tunic length: remove 8”; For hip length: remove 12”. Or choose your own customized length (such as also adding/removing length based on personal height).
Sleeves: Skip the sleeve instructions and wear as a vest, or shorten the sleeves to desired length. For half sleeves, cut finished length in half.
Hood: Hood can be left off; follow finishing instructions, but instead work around the collar instead of the hood front.
Belt: Make belt following included instructions, or use a regular fashion belt.
Closure: The solid trim is great for adding a zipper or toggle buttons. A shawl pin also makes for a great closure.

Instructions

BODY – P Hook

R1. Ch 76(88,100,112,124,136,148,160,172), sc in back bump of 4th ch (cts as [hdc, ch 1]), skip 2, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in next ch, skip 2, *[sc, ch 3, sc] in next ch, skip 2, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in next, skip 2* across, [sc, ch 1, hdc] in last ch, turn

R2. Ch 2 (cts as 1st dc), 2 dc in same space as ch, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, *[2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space* across, 3 dc in top of turning ch, turn

R3. Ch 3 (cts as [hdc, ch 1]), sc in same space as ch, skip 2 dc, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, *[sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space* across, [sc, ch 1, hdc] in top of turning ch, turn

**Repeat R2&3 until piece measures 12(12.5,12.5,13,13,13.5,13.5,14,14)”; ending with a R3 repeat

Switch to K Hook,

**Repeat R2&3 5X (10 rows total); ending with a R3 repeat

Switch back to P Hook,

**Repeat R2&3 until piece measures 26(26.5,27,27.5,28,28.5,29,29.5,30)”; ending with a R3 repeat; Continue to Left Front Panel.

LEFT FRONT PANEL – P Hook

Sizes XS, M, XL, 3X, & 5X

R1. Ch 2 (cts as 1st dc), 2 dc in same space as ch, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, *[2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space* 2,3,4,5,6X, 3 dc in last ch-3 space, turn

R2. Ch 3 (cts as [hdc, ch 1]), sc in same space as ch, skip 2 dc, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, *[sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space* across, [sc, ch 1, hdc] in top of turning ch, turn

SIZES S, L, 2X, & 4X

R1. Ch 2 (cts as 1st dc), 2 dc in same space as ch, *[sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space* 3,4,5,6X, 3 dc in last ch-3 space, turn

ALL SIZES

R3. Repeat R1&2 until piece measures 33(33.5,34,34.5,35,35.5,36,36.5,37)”; ending with a R2 repeat; Fasten.

BACK PANEL – P Hook

TIP: Before completing this row, mark off where the Right Front Panel will start (it needs to match the width of the Left Front Panel (see instructions below). If there is an even number of ch spaces (leaving an extra at the end of this row) decrease over the last 2 ch spaces and then work the 3 dc in the decrease

Attach yarn to same ch-3 space the Left Front Panel (R1) ended in

R1. Ch 2 (cts as 1st dc), 2 dc in same space as ch, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, *[2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space* 5(6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13)X, 3 dc in last ch-3 space, turn

R3. Repeat R1&2 until piece measures 33(33.5,34,34.5,35,35.5,36,36.5,37)”; make sure to match the same amount of rows in the left front panel; Fasten.

RIGHT FRONT PANEL – P Hook

Attach yarn to same ch-3 space the Back Panel (R1) ended in

Sizes XS, M, XL, 3X, & 5X

R1. Ch 2 (cts as 1st dc), 2 dc in same space as ch, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, *[2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space* 2(3,4,5,6)X, 3 dc in last ch-3 space, turn

SIZES S, L, 2X, & 4X

R1. Ch 2 (cts as 1st dc), 2 dc in same space as ch, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, *[2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space* 3(4,5,6)X, 3 dc in last ch-3 space, turn

ALL SIZES

R3. Repeat R1&2 until piece measures 33(33.5,34,34.5,35,35.5,36,36.5,37)”; make sure to match the same amount of rows in the left front and back panels; Fasten.

**Turn inside out: Holding front panel to back panel and lining up the armhole edge evenly: Sew ⅔ of the way across front panel to create shoulders (starting at armhole and working towards neckhole). Repeat on other side. Turn right side out before starting sleeves.

SLEEVES – P Hook

R1. Attach yarn to bottom center of armhole (arnd a dc): Ch 1, [sc, ch 3, sc] in same space, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] arnd next dc , *[sc, ch 3, sc] arnd next dc, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] arnd next dc* arnd, sl st to join in 1st sc, turn

R2. Ch 1, [sc, ch 3, sc] in 1st ch-2 space, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, *[sc, ch 3, sc] in next ch-2 space, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in next ch-3 space* arnd, sl st to join in 1st sc, turn

**Repeat R2 until sleeve reaches 6”

Switch to K Hook,

**Repeat R2 until sleeve reaches 18.5(19,19,19.5,19.5,20,20,20.5,20.5)”

R3. Ch 1, sc evenly all the way up around the cuff, sl st to join in 1st sc, turn

**Repeat for 2 additional rows around; Fasten.

HOOD – P Hook

R1. Ch 58(58,58,58,64,64,64,64,64), sc in back bump of 4th ch (cts as [hdc, ch 1]), skip 2, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in next ch, skip 2, *[sc, ch 3, sc] in next ch, skip 2, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in next, skip 2* across, [sc, ch 1, hdc] in last, turn

R2. Ch 2 (cts as 1st dc), 2 dc in same space as ch, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, *[2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch -3 space, [sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space* across, 3 dc in top of turning ch, turn

R3. Ch 3 (cts as [hdc, ch 1]), sc in same space as ch, skip 2 dc, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space, *[sc, ch 3, sc] in ch-2 space, [2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc] in ch-3 space* across, [sc, ch 1, hdc] in last, turn **Repeat R2&3 until piece measures 11(11.5,11.5,12,12,12,12.5,12.5,12.5)”; ending with a R3 repeat; Fasten.

BELT (optional) – K Hook

R1. Ch 11, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across, turn (10)

R2. Ch 1, sc in each st across, turn

**Repeat Row 2 until belt measures desired length (I suggest taking the wearers waist measurement and adding 12-14”); Fasten.

Finishing

Form hood by folding in half along the starting chain side and sew together. This new seam will be the backside of the hood.
With right sides together and sewing from the wrong sides/inside: Attach hood to collar by matching up the front corners of the hood to the front corners of the front panels, then matching up the hood back seam with the center of the back panel, and sewing evenly around. Tip: Use sewing clips or stitch markers to hold hood in place while sewing.
Add finishing trim with P/10.00mm hook, attach yarn to the bottom edge of the right front, ch 1, sc in next st and evenly all the way up the front, around the hood front, and down the left front, and across the bottom, sl st to join in 1st sc, turn. Repeat for 2 additional rows around. Fasten.
Hide strings.

That’s the Bayberry Cardigan Crochet Pattern!

The Bayberry Cardigan crochet pattern combines style, comfort, and versatility in one beautiful project. With its lacy stitches, adjustable fit, optional belt, and full size range from XS–5X, it’s a cardigan you’ll want to make in more than one color.

Don’t forget—there’s a child-size Bayberry Cardigan too, so you can make a matching set. (This pattern will be free on our website soon).

This is more than just a free crochet cardigan pattern—it’s a handmade wardrobe staple you’ll treasure for years.

Don’t forget to share!

If you make the Bayberry Cardigan, I’d love to see them! Tag me on Instagram at @blackstone_designs or use the hashtag #BayberryCardigan so I can share your makes with the community.

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Happy Crocheting!

Written pattern and photographs © 2025 Sonya Blackstone of Blackstone Designs. Do not sell, share, or modify this pattern, but instead share the link to where the pattern can be found. You may sell items you make with this pattern. This pattern, as with all Blackstone Designs/Sonya Blackstone patterns, are not for educational use without written permission from the designer. All rights reserved.

Sonya Blackstone is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

2 Comments

TK says:

September 28, 2025 at 10:34 pm

Quit saying the pattern is “free on the blog” when you won’t grant access unless we resubscribe to your emails every time we visit your website. One subscription should be sufficient.

1. Blackstone Designs Crochet Patterns says:
  
  October 4, 2025 at 8:05 pm
  
  Hello!
  Consider it like signing into a website! You aren’t going to receive multiple emails, just the one, and the pattern is still free on this website, you just need to sign in to see it.
  If you don’t want to subscribe, you can always purchase the PDF version from Etsy or Ravelry!
  -Sonya