How to Crochet a Crop Lace Cardigan

Introduction

• Tutorial on crocheting a crop lace cardigan.
• Beginner-friendly pattern using simple stitches: double crochet, chain, and single crochet.
• Consists of three panels assembled together, with added sleeves.
• Demonstrated on a size small cardigan, with instructions on measuring for custom sizes.

Materials and Initial Steps

• Start with the front panel, working from the top of the shoulder.
• Begin with a slip knot and chain 8 (1.5 inches).
• Ensure an even number of foundation chains for larger sizes.

Front Panel Instructions

Row 1: Double Crochet

• Chain a total of 12 stitches (8 foundation + 4 turning).
• Make a double crochet in the fifth chain.
• Mark stitches and continue double crocheting across the row.

Row 2: Lace or Mesh Stitch

• Chain 4 (count as a stitch), turn work.
• Skip two stitches, double crochet in third stitch.
• Continue pattern of chaining one, skipping a stitch, and double crocheting across.

Row 3: Double Crochet

• Chain 3 (count as a stitch), turn work.
• Double crochet in chain space and next double crochet.
• Repeat until end of row.

Repeat Pattern

• Alternate between Row 2 and Row 3 until reaching Row 10 (4 inches).

Creating V-Neck Line and Increasing

• Continue from the last stitch, starting Row 11 with an increase.
• Chain 3, double crochet across, make 3 double crochets in last loop.
• Follow with Row 12 and continue alternating rows until Row 14 (5.5 inches).

Underarm Increase

• Add 5 chains after Row 14 for underarm space.
• Ensure the total stitch count is even.

Continue Pattern

• Repeat Row 11 and Row 12 alternation until Row 20 (6.5 inches).
• Decrease to curve at bust end, using a three-double-crochet-together method in Row 21.

Completing Front Panel

• Finish with shell stitch around the edge and create front ties.
• Repeat instructions for the opposite front panel.

Back Panel Instructions

• Use front panel measurements to calculate back panel width.
• Make 58 chains plus 4 for the turning stitch.
• Work normal double crochet and lace stitches for 14 rows.
• Add stitches at the underarm like in the front.

Assembly

• Attach front and back panels at shoulders using single crochet.
• Use shell stitch around the cardigan edges and front ties.

Sleeves

• Begin at shoulder seam, making a shell stitch row for the top.
• Alternate rows of double crochet and mesh for 13 rows.
• Finish sleeve with shell stitch edge.
• Repeat for the second sleeve.

Conclusion

• Ensure the shell stitch is applied around all edges uniformly.
• Adjust instructions for larger sizes by adding rows or increasing stitches as needed.
• Tutorial concludes with a completed cardigan.

Note: This content provides an overview and detailed steps for creating a crochet lace cardigan based on the tutorial video provided.