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Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern
4.6★ Rating
5-7 Hours Time Needed
2.2K Made This
✂️

Intermediate Level

Ideal for those with basic crochet experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

⏱️

Weekend Treat

Takes 5-7 hours, making it an enjoyable project to finish over a couple of days.

🧥

Layered Comfort

Perfect for cozy, stylish layering through changing seasons with versatile, mix-and-match potential.

About This Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

This pattern creates a classic, top-down baby cardigan worked in one piece with options for shell or ruffle edging and sweet appliques. It includes sizes from Preemie up to 3-4 years and is written in US terms with UK equivalents provided. The design is simple but adaptable — you can add colourful buttons or tiny appliques to personalise each cardigan.

Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

Worked in single crochet rows with straightforward shaping, the cardigan is joined to form sleeves and finished with button bands for a polished look. The pattern includes clear gauge information and step-by-step instructions for sleeves and edging.

Why You'll Love This Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it combines a clean, classic shape with so many customization options. I designed it to be worked top-down so you can try it on as you go and adjust length or sleeve size easily. The simple single crochet texture makes it quick to stitch while still feeling substantial and cosy. I enjoy adding fun buttons and tiny appliques to make each cardigan special — it always brings a smile to the maker and recipient.

Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern step 1 - construction progress Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love how easy it is to customise this cardigan — I often change yarn colours to create stripes or contrast button bands for a fun look.

To make a chunky version I use a bulkier yarn and a larger hook; this gives a cosy, quick-to-make cardigan perfect for chilly days.

If you want a tiny, gift-sized cardigan try a finer yarn and smaller hook to create a delicate heirloom piece ideal for dolls or keepsakes.

I like adding appliques like rainbows, bunnies or stars using contrasting yarn or felt; they make lovely focal points and are quick to sew on.

Try the shell edging for a vintage feel or the ruffle edging for a playful finish — both change the cardigan's personality dramatically.

Swap the buttons for snaps if you need easier dressing access for babies, or use decorative buttons for a dressier look.

You can lengthen the body by repeating the even row until you reach the desired length, or shorten it for a cropped style suitable for layering.

For a co-ordinated set, use the same stitch counts to make a matching hat or booties and adjust lengths to fit.

I also sometimes add a small pocket by working a rectangle in sc and sewing it to the front — perfect for tiny treasures.

Finally, experiment with placement of the button band (centre or offset) and mix up yarn textures like cotton blends or acrylic for different drape and care properties.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Skipping the ch1 clarification at the start of rows can change stitch counts; always remember ch1 does not count as a stitch and work sc into the first stitch as instructed. ✗ Not marking armhole division stitches causes incorrect armhole placement; mark out the front, back, and skip stitches precisely when dividing for armholes. ✗ Failing to swatch to the gauge will affect final size and fit; make the 9 sc x 9 rows gauge square with a 4mm hook and adjust hook size to match. ✗ Adding too much or too little stuffing when shaping sleeves can distort the armhole; add stitches under the arm as suggested and try the sleeve in place before finishing. ✗ Neglecting to place markers for buttonholes will lead to uneven spacing; mark out where you want the buttonholes before working the buttonhole band and skip the marked stitches as directed.

Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

Make a sweet, top-down baby cardigan worked in one piece and finished with neat button bands and optional shell or ruffle edging. You can keep it simple with a solid colour or personalise it with playful appliques and colourful buttons. This pattern includes full size ranges from Preemie to 3-4 years and clear step-by-step rows so you can follow along with confidence. Perfect for gifting or adding a handmade layer to a little one's wardrobe.

Intermediate 5-7 Hours

Materials Needed for Simple Playdays Cardigan Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    DK weight (3) yarn - main colour, quantity varies by size (see yarnage below)
  • 02
    Preemie - 220 metres
  • 03
    Newborn - 240 metres
  • 04
    0-3 Months - 260 metres
  • 05
    3-6 Months - 320 metres
  • 06
    6-12 Months - 380 metres
  • 07
    1-2 Years - 450 metres
  • 08
    3-4 Years - 550 metres
  • 09
    4-6 x 15mm buttons (use 4-6 depending on size and preference)

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size 4.0mm
  • 02
    2-4 mm hooks for appliques
  • 03
    3.0mm hook (change to 3mm for button/buttonhole bands)
  • 04
    4-6 x 15mm buttons
  • 05
    Stitch markers (to mark buttonholes and sections)
  • 06
    Yarn needle for sewing and weaving in ends
  • 07
    Scissors
  • 08
    Tape measure for checking length and sleeve measurement

Progress Tracker

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— Pattern notes and pictures :

Info :

* Working in first stitch the ch1 does not count as a stitch, ch1 and sc in the first stitch*

Info :

Dividing for armholes

Info :

Sc the required amount of stitches for the front, skip required amount of stitches, (this will form the first armhole), work the required amount of stitches for the back, skip the required amount of stitches to form the second armhole, sc to the end.

Info :

How to measure the sleeves and length

Info :

Sleeves: Start in the first unworked stitch. Place extra stitches under the arm to get the right amount (this prevents a gap under the arm)

— Button/Buttonhole Bands All sizes :

Info :

Continuing from body, change to 3mm hook

Row 1 :

ch1, 1 sc in the same, sc 1 in each row up to the top. Turn

Row 2 :

Ch1, sc in the same, sc in each stitch back to bottom. Turn

Row 3 :

Ch1, sc in the same, sc in each stitch back to top.

Info :

Fasten off.

Item Name (P1) :

Buttonhole band

Row 1 :

With the right side facing, join yarn to the top of the left hand side of the front edge, ch1, 1 sc in the same, 1 sc in each row. Turn

Info :

Mark out where you want the button holes, on the next row ch1 and skip the one where the markers are.

Row 2 :

Buttonhole row, Ch1, sc in the same, sc all but ch1 and skip where the markers are to create the buttonholes. Turn

Row 3 :

Ch1, sc in the same and sc in all, including the chains.

Info :

Fasten off and sew your buttons on to match the button holes and weave in all ends.

— Adding a shell Edging :

Info :

Complete the cardigan and button bands as normal.

Info :

The Shell edging requires multiples of 6 stitches + 1. I included 3 stitches at the edging at each side, if you don't have this do a row of single crochet (double UK) first and add stitches to get the right amount.

Info :

With the right side facing, join yarn to the bottom right of the cardigan.

Instruction :

Ch1, sc in the same, *skip 2, 5 dc in the next, skip 2, sc in the next* repeat to the end.

Instruction :

Ch1 and sc in the same, skip the rest of the button band and 5 dc in the first stitch of the cardigan bottom. At the end do the last shell in the last stitch of the cardigan and sc at the end of the button band.

— Adding a ruffle Edging :

Info :

You could also add a ruffle edging by completing the cardigan and button bands as normal.

Instruction :

Then join yarn to the bottom right of the cardigan, ch1, dc in the same, 3 dc in each stitch to the last then dc in the last. Fasten off and sew in the ends.

— Preemie 4-6lb :

Info :

With a 4mm hook Ch39

Row 1 :

sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 4, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 5. (46) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (46) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 5, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6. (54) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (54) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 7. (62) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (62) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (70) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (70) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in next, sc 9. (78) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (78) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (86) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (86) Turn

Row 13 :

(Divide for arm holes) ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, skip 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, skip 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (58) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (58) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 14 until work measures approx 7" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

— Preemie Sleeves :

Info :

With a 4mm hook

Row 1 :

With the wrong side facing join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 21, slst to first. (22) Turn

Rows 2-9 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (22) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (21) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (21) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (20) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (20) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (19) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (19) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (18) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 16 until the sleeve measures 7" from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

— Newborn :

Info :

With a 4mm hook Ch43

Row 1 :

sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 4, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 5. (50) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (50) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 5, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6. (58) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (58) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 7. (66) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (66) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (74) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (74) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (82) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (82) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (90) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (90) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (98) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (98) Turn

Row 15 :

(Divide for arm holes) ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, skip 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, skip 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (62) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (62) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 16 until work measures approx 8" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

— Newborn Sleeves :

Info :

With a 4mm hook

Row 1 :

With the wrong side facing join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 25, slst to first. (26) Turn

Rows 2-9 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (25) Turn

Rows 11 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (25) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (24) Turn

Rows 13 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (24) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (23) Turn

Rows 15 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (23) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (22) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (21) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (21) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 18 until the sleeve measures 8" from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

— 0-3 months :

Info :

With a 4mm hook Ch47

Row 1 :

sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 5, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, 3 sc in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 6. (54) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (54) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, 3 sc in next, sc 7. (62) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (62) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (70) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (70) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (78) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (78) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (86) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (86) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (94) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (94) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (102) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (102) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 28, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (110) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (110) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 16 until work measures approx 9" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

— 0-3 months Sleeves :

Info :

With a 4mm hook

Row 1 :

With right side facing, join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 28, slst to first. (30) Turn

Rows 2-7 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (28) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (27) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (27) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (26) Turn

Rows 11 :

ch1, sc in all, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (25) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (25) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (24) Turn

Rows 15 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (24) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (23) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, dec, sc all, slst to first. (22) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc in all, slst to first. (22) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 18 until the sleeve measures 9" from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

— Size 3-6 months :

Info :

With a 4mm hook Ch51

Row 1 :

sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 6, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 7. (58) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (58) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (66) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (66) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (74) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (74) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (82) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (82) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (90) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (90) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (98) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (98) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 28, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (106) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (106) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 30, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14. (114) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (114) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 32, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15. (122) Turn

Row 18 :

(Divide for Armholes) ch1, sc in the same, sc in next 15, [3 sc] in the next, skip 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 34, [3 sc] in the next, skip 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16. (78) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (78) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 19 until work measures approx 10" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

— 3-6 months Sleeves :

Info :

With a 4mm hook

Row 1 :

With right side facing, join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 32, slst to first. (33) Turn

Rows 2-3 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (33) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (32) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (32) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (30) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (30) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (29) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (28) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (28) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (27) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc all slst to first. (27) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (25) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, sc all, slst to first. (25) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 23 until the sleeve measures 13.5" from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

— Size 6-12 months :

Info :

With 4mm hook Ch57

Row 1 :

sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 7, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 8. (64) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (64) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (72) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (72) Turn.

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, 3 sc in next, sc 10. (80) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (80) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (88) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (88) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (96) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (96) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 28, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (104) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (104)

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 30, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14. (112) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (112) Turn

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 32, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15. (120) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (120) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 34, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16. (128) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (128) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 36, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17. (136) Turn

Row 20 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (136) Turn

Row 21 :

(Divide for armholes) ch1, sc in the same, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, skip 29, [3 sc] in next, sc 38, [3 sc] in the next, skip 29, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18. (86) Turn

Row 22 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (86) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 22 until work measures approx 11.5" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

— 6-12 months Sleeves :

Info :

With a 4mm hook

Row 1 :

With wrong side facing, join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 34, slst to first. (35) Turn

Rows 2-3 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (35) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (34) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (34) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (33) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (33) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (32) Turn

Rows 9-10 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (32) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (30) Turn

Rows 14-15 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (30) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Rows 17-18 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (28) Turn

Rows 20-21 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (28) Turn

Row 22 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (27) Turn

Rows 23-24 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (27) Turn

Row 25 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 26 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (26) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 26 until the sleeve measures 11.5 inches from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

— Size 1-2 Years :

Info :

Using a 4mm hook Ch61

Row 1 :

sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 8, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20, [3 sc] in next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9. (68) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (68) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 22, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (76) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (76) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 24, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in next, sc 11. (84) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (84) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 26, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (92) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (92) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 28, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (100) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (100) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 30, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14. (108) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (108) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 32, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15. (116) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (116)

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 34, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16. (124) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (124) Turn

Row 17 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 36, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17. (132) Turn

Row 18 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (132) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 38, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 18. (140) Turn

Row 20 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (140) Turn

Row 21 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 18, [3 sc] in the next, sc 29, [3 sc] in the next, sc 40, [3 sc] in the next, sc 29, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19. Turn. (148) Turn

Row 22 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (148) Turn

Row 23 :

(Divide for Armholes) ch1, sc in the same, sc in next 19, [3 sc] in the next, skip 31, [3 sc] in the next, sc 42, [3 sc] in the next, skip 31, [3 sc] in the next, sc 20. (94) Turn

Row 24 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (94) Turn

Info :

Repeat Row 24 until work measures approximately 12.5" from the shoulder, ending with an even row. Continue to button band on page 4.

— 1-2 Years Sleeves :

Info :

With a 4mm hook

Row 1 :

with the wrong side facing, join yarn to the first un-worked sc under the arm, ch1, sc in the same, sc 34, slst to first. (35) Turn

Rows 2-3 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (35) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (34) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (34) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (33) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (33) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (32) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (32) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (31) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (30) Turn

Rows 14-15 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (30) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Rows 17-18 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (29) Turn

Row 19 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (28) Turn

Rows 20-21 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (28) Turn

Row 22 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (27) Turn

Rows 23-24 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (27) Turn

Row 25 :

ch1, dec, sc to end, slst to first. (26) Turn

Row 26 :

ch1, sc to end, slst to first. (26) Turn

Info :

Repeat row 26 until the sleeve measures 11.5 inches from the shoulder. Fasten off and repeat for the other sleeve.

— Size 3-4 Years :

Info :

Using a 4mm hook Ch64

Row 1 :

sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 9, [3 sc] in the next, sc 10. (71) Turn

Row 2 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (71) Turn

Row 3 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 10, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 11. (79) Turn

Row 4 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (79) Turn

Row 5 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 11, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 25, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 12. (87) Turn

Row 6 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (87) Turn

Row 7 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 12, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 27, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 13. (95) Turn

Row 8 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (95) Turn

Row 9 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 13, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 29, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17, [3 sc] in the next, sc 14. (103) Turn

Row 10 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (103) Turn

Row 11 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 14, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 31, [3 sc] in the next, sc 19, [3 sc] in the next, sc 15. (111) Turn

Row 12 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (111) Turn

Row 13 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 15, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 33, [3 sc] in the next, sc 21, [3 sc] in the next, sc 16. (119) Turn

Row 14 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (119)

Row 15 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc 16, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 35, [3 sc] in the next, sc 23, [3 sc] in the next, sc 17. (127) Turn

Row 16 :

ch1, sc in the same, sc to end. (127) Turn

Assembly Instructions

  • Attach button bands by working the 3mm button band along the front edges after completing the body; align the band so the rows meet the cardigan edge and sew or slip stitch in place if needed.
  • Mark and sew buttons to match the buttonholes created on the buttonhole band; test each button to ensure holes align before final sewing.
  • Sew sleeves into the armholes by aligning the sleeve opening with the armhole opening; distribute stitches evenly and use whipstitch or mattress stitch to join securely.
  • If adding shell or ruffle edging, join yarn to the bottom right of the cardigan and work across the hem, finishing shells in the last stitch and securing the edge before weaving in ends.
  • Pin garment pieces and button bands in place before sewing to ensure even placement and symmetry, then weave in all loose ends for a neat finish.

Important Notes

  • 💡Use stitch markers to mark buttonhole placement and armhole division points for accurate shaping and consistent button spacing.
  • 💡Make a gauge swatch (9 sc x 9 rows = 2" x 2" with 4mm hook) and adjust hook size if necessary to achieve correct sizing.
  • 💡Work evenly under the arm by placing extra stitches under the arm when joining sleeves to avoid gaps and create a smooth join.
  • 💡Change to a 3mm hook for the button bands to create a neat, less-stretchy edge that holds buttons securely.
  • 💡Fasten off securely and weave in ends as you go to keep finishing tidy and prevent loose yarn tails.

This Simple Playdays Cardigan is a cosy, top-down design made to grow with little ones thanks to multiple sizes from Preemie to 3-4 years. Personalize it with bright buttons, shell edging or a cute applique for a truly unique gift. The pattern is clear and adaptable — perfect for special keepsakes and everyday wear. 🧶✨👶

You ask,

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FAQs

What size will the finished piece be?

The pattern includes sizes from Preemie (13" chest) up to 3-4 years (23" chest); finished dimensions vary by size and are shown in the size table in the pattern.

Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern?

Yes, you can use different yarn weights, but this will affect the final size and gauge; use the gauge square (9 sc x 9 rows = 2" x 2" with 4mm hook) to adjust hook size and ensure correct fit.

Do I need prior crochet experience for this pattern?

This pattern is rated intermediate, so basic knowledge of single crochet, increases, decreases, and reading row instructions is recommended for best results.

How long does this project typically take to complete?

Most crocheters complete this project in 5-7 hours, depending on the size you choose and how much time you spend on finishing and embellishments.

How do I place buttonholes evenly?

Mark the buttonhole positions on the button band before working the buttonhole row, then skip the designated stitches on the next row to create evenly spaced buttonholes.