Home » Crochet » Crochet Cardigan Patterns » 13+ Free Summer Crochet Cardigan Patterns : Step out in Style

13+ Free Summer Crochet Cardigan Patterns : Step out in Style

Today I’m exploring everything you need to crochet your own summer cardigan. From choosing the perfect yarn that feels great next to your skin to the best stitch patterns that create a lightweight fabric, I’ve got you covered.

I’m also featuring a handpicked collection of crochet summer cardigan patterns that are sure to inspire your next project. Whether you prefer classic designs, modern silhouettes, or boho-inspired creations, there’s something in this collection to suit every style and skill level.

montage of 12 photos showing women wearing different designs and colours of summer crochet cardigans

Crochet the perfect crochet summer cardigan for layering up to wear on those sun-kissed days and balmy evenings.

Save this article as a PDF and dive in when you’re ready to crochet your cardigan. Just look for the printer friendly button.

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Summer crochet cardigans aren’t just any old sweaters … they’re the ultimate blend of style and comfort, and the perfect excuse for us to indulge our passion for yarn, even when the temperatures rise!  Go grab your digital notebook and let’s get started.

Why you’ll love to crochet a summer cardigan

Crocheting your own summer cardigan can be more cost-effective than purchasing a ready-made garment of similar quality. Plus, you have the added benefit of knowing exactly where your clothing comes from and how it was made!
Summer cardigans made from lightweight yarn and open stitch patterns are perfect for adding a layer without overheating. Crocheting your own allows you to control the density of the fabric, ensuring it’s airy and comfortable for warmer weather.
A crocheted summer cardigan can be worn as the weather shifts. You can wear it over sleeveless tops or dresses on cooler summer evenings or layered with long sleeves in the fall/autumn. When you crochet your own cardigan, you can choose a design that seamlessly transitions between seasons, maximizing its wearability throughout the year.  In this collection of summer crochet cardigans, I’ve chosen different designs to give you options.

Yarn Choices for a Summer Cardigan

Here are some popular yarn options that are lightweight, breathable, and suitable for warm weather. 

  1. Cotton: Top of my list is cotton yarn.  It is a classic choice for summer garments due to its breathability and softness.  Personally, I find that because summer patterns are typically lacy, the finished cardi is not too heavy.  Cotton yarn is comfortable to wear against the skin and has good moisture-wicking properties (meaning perspiration isn’t absorbed into the yarn), making it ideal for hot and humid weather. Look for mercerized cotton for a smooth finish and enhanced lustre.  My all-time favourite cotton yarn is King Cole Cottonsoft. It doesn’t split and really is lovely and soft!
  2. Bamboo: Bamboo yarn is another excellent choice for summer crochet projects. It has a silky texture and drapes beautifully, creating garments with a luxurious feel. Bamboo yarn is also known for its natural anti-bacterial properties and moisture absorption, keeping you cool and dry in warm weather.  My go to favourite, TruBoo, is eco-friendly and has a beautiful drape.
  3. Linen: Linen yarn is lightweight and highly breathable, making it perfect for summer cardigans. It has a crisp texture and becomes softer with each wash, resulting in garments that are comfortable to wear and improve over time. Linen yarn also has excellent moisture-wicking abilities, making it ideal for hot and humid weather. The downside is that it’s not very elastic, wrinkles easily and can be tricky to crochet at first.  Alternatively, you could try a blend such as DMC Natura Linen which blends linen, viscose and cotton or Drops Belle which blends Egyptian cotton with linen and viscose.
  4. Bamboo/Cotton Blends: Blends of bamboo and cotton combine the best qualities of both fibres, resulting in yarn that is soft, breathable, and durable. These blends often have a lovely drape and subtle sheen, making them perfect for lightweight summer garments like cardigans.  One of the most popular brands I’ve seen is Stylecraft’s Naturals Bamboo and Cotton DK.   It has a hint of luxury at affordable prices which makes it well worth trying out.
  5. Cotton/Acrylic Blends: I’ve noticed that cotton and acrylic blended yarn is becoming more popular.  When I’ve used it myself, I’ve found the acrylic helps hold the shape of the garment, even after several washes.  I’ve recently used Wool Warehouse’s brand Yarnsmith’s Daydream Aran in my granny square shrug and Pebble Haze DK in my heart filet cardigan.  I can recommend both.   
  6. Silk: Silk yarn is luxurious and lightweight, with a beautiful drape that lends itself well to summer garments. While silk yarn can be more expensive, it creates cardigans with a stunning sheen and elegant appearance. Look for silk blends with other fibres like cotton or bamboo to enhance breathability and reduce cost. 
  7. Acrylic: this may be a bit controversial but living in the UK, I can tell you that garments crocheted with 100% premium acrylic work in the summer as well as the colder months. With open stitch patterns it is lighter than other fibres such as cotton and although not breathable, it does have a low moisture absorbency. And it keeps you warm 🙂 A big bonus is how affordable it is!

How much yarn you need to crochet your cardigan will depend on the yarn weight, stitch pattern, design and size of your cardigan.  As a guide, the summer cardigan patterns in this roundup use:

  • #3 DK weight 50% Acrylic 50% Cotton from 1400 – 2800 (long sleeves, long length)
  • Worsted weight 75% Pima Cotton / 25% Acrylic from 876 – 2190 yds (short sleeves)
  • Worsted weight 100% Mercerized Cotton from 547 – 1489 yds (sleeveless)
  • Worsted weight 94% Mako Cotton, 6% Nylon from 875 – 1375 yds (short sleeves)
  • #3 DK weight 70% Tanguis Cotton / 30% Linen from 1100 – 1925 yds (short sleeves)
  • DK weight 100% bamboo from 1000 – 2900 yds (three-quarter sleeves)
  • #4 Worsted Weight 60% Cotton, 40% Acrylic, 1590 – 2120 yds (long sleeves)
  • #3 DK weight 50% Cotton 50% Bamboo, 1603 – 2536 yds (long sleeves, long length)
  • #3 DK weight cotton (53%) viscose (33%) linen (14%), 1045 – 2046 yards (lacy pattern)
Montage of 4 photos showing women wearing shades of orange or beige lacy crochet cardigans

What Crochet Stitch should I Choose for a Summer Cardigan?

When I’m choosing crochet stitches (no matter the project) I take into account the overall design, how I want my project to drape, and the level of detail I want to achieve.   

I love to experiment with different stitch combinations!  If you’re planning on designing your own summer cardigan, in the table below I’ve noted the most popular stitches (US Crochet Terms) so that you can have fun experimenting too.

Browsing my crochet stitch library will give you ideas too.

Top tip: Crocheting your swatch in the stitch of your choice will not only help you to match the gauge but also to see how the fabric will drape and look.

StitchDescription
Single Crochet (sc)Creates a dense and sturdy fabric, ideal for cuffs, collars, and cardigan edges.
Half Double Crochet (hdc)Slightly taller than single crochet, provides balance between stability and flexibility, suitable for body panels and sleeves.
Double Crochet (dc)Creates a fabric with more openness and drape compared to single crochet, great for lightweight and airy sections of a cardigan.
Treble Crochet (tr)Even taller than double crochet, results in significant drape and openness, often used in lace or mesh patterns for lightweight cardigans.
Shell StitchConsists of multiple stitches worked into the same stitch or space, creating a scalloped or shell-like texture, perfect for decorative accents.
V-StitchMade by working a double crochet, chain stitch, and another double crochet into the same stitch or space, produces a fabric with a lovely openwork texture, often used for lace panels or borders.
Granny StitchClassic pattern consisting of clusters of double crochet stitches worked into spaces between stitches, versatile for entire body panels or decorative accents.
Mesh StitchAlternating rows of openwork stitches and chains, creates a lightweight and breathable fabric, perfect for summer cardigans.
Filet CrochetInvolves creating open and filled spaces using double crochet and chain stitches, great for intricate lace patterns and motifs.
Pineapple StitchClusters of stitches worked together to form a pineapple motif, adds decorative panels or accents to a summer cardigan.
Solomon’s Knot (Love Knot)Delicate and airy fabric with elongated loops, perfect for lightweight and breathable texture, great when worked in rows or as edging.
Open Fan StitchClusters of stitches forming a fan shape separated by chains, creates a lacy and feminine look, suitable for panels or accents.
Tulip StitchClusters of double crochet stitches resembling tulip flowers, creates an intricate lace pattern, ideal for adding visual interest to a cardigan on cuffs and hems.
Shells and Clusters StitchCombines shell stitches with smaller clusters or bobbles to create textured and lacy fabric, versatile for various parts of a summer cardigan.
RibbingAlternating rows of single crochet or half double crochet stitches worked in the front or back loop only, produces a stretchy and elastic fabric, ideal for cuffs and collar bands.
4 photos of women wearing cream or grey cardigans

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Summer Crochet Cardigans

If you’re wanting to follow a crochet pattern, this is the section for you.  Clicking on the numbered link will take you to the pattern.

The majority of patterns are written in US Crochet Terms.

For my UK crocheters, the table below is a conversion of basic crochet stitches from US to UK.

US Crochet TermsUK Crochet Terms
single crochet (sc)double crochet (dc)
half double crochet (hdc)half treble crochet (htr)
double crochet (dc)treble crochet (tr)
treble (tr)double treble (dtr)
double treble (dtr)triple treble (trtr)

1. Lacy Summer Crochet Cardigan

Lacy and lightweight crochet cardigan in orange is styled on a mannequin
Jera’s Jamboree

The lacy pattern of my latest summer crochet pattern features a seamless construction and offers options for both the length of the cardigan and the sleeves.

Crocheted in a lightweight cotton blend yarn and its airy construction ensures you will stay cool and comfortable, even when layered over other clothing.

This design was such a joy to create and work on, when the warmer weather comes it’s going to be out of my wardrobe more than in it! One of my favourites.

If you prefer working offline, you can buy this pattern in my Etsy shop.

2. Larissa Cardigan Pattern

A cardigan crocheted in the block stitch is styled on a mannequin
Jera’s Jamboree

My cardigan is worked with a yarn that offers a luxurious feel without breaking the bank AND it’s breathable. Perfect for summer wearing.

You’ll enjoy crocheting the easy two-row repeat and with a seamless construction, you’ll also love how easy it is to customize to your length preferences.

  • Recommended yarn: Drops Belle DK-weight, cotton (53%), viscose (33%) and linen (14%)
  • Instructions are written for sizes: XS through to 5X in UK and US crochet terms

This pattern is free to view on my website and is available to purchase in my Etsy and Ravelry stores.

3. Selene Crochet Cardigan

A woman is wearing a lacy beige cardigan over a t-shirt and the same cardigan over a summer dress
Jera’s Jamboree

My spring/summer cardigan pattern involves practicing different stitches (crossed stitch, Iris stitch), shaping techniques (increases for the sleeves), and garment construction (seaming).

I designed this pattern to be worked in a total of 7 rectangular pieces: back, front (make 2), sleeves (make 2), ribbed edging (make 2) giving you the freedom to mix and match different sizes – easy to change to a shorter length too. Each piece is worked flat from the bottom up and seamed to join.

I wear mine over summer dresses and as a casual cover up with t-shirt and shorts – both outfits look great!

  • Recommended yarn: Sirdar Hayfield Sundance DK 50% Cotton 50% Acrylic
  • Crochet stitches: crossed stitches, Iris stitch, UK treble crochet/US double crochet
  • Instructions are written for sizes: XS to 5X

This pattern is free to view on my blog.

4. Hexagon Cardigan (with optional pockets)

A hexagon crochet cardigan in white and bright rainbow colours is laid out flat
Jera’s Jamboree

The short-sleeve, lightweight design of my pattern makes this hexagon cardigan an ideal addition to your summer wardrobe.

With the main body constructed from just two hexagons and simple extensions, this project comes together quickly!

This cardigan is perfect for using up scrap yarn from your stash.

Written in US terms for sizes S through to XXXL, you can find the full pattern for free on my blog. If you prefer to work from a PDF you can upgrade in my Etsy and Ravelry stores.

5. Carnation Kisses Lacy Cardigan

a lacy summer crochet cardigan in dusky pink and cream is styled on a mannequin showing the front, side and back view

My cardigan looks fab layered over a simple top or dress during the day and the elegant lace pattern is also suitable for more formal events like outdoor weddings or evening gatherings.

You can customize the length which means you can pair this lacy cardigan with anything from shorts and sandals to jeans and heels, making an effortless transition from day-to-night in style.

  • Recommended yarn: Drops Belle DK-weight, cotton (53%), viscose (33%) and linen (14%)
  • Crochet stitches: single crochet, treble crochet, shells
  • Instructions are written in US crochet terms for sizes S through to 5X.

My pattern is free to view on the blog (at the numbered link) or you can upgrade to a PDF in my Etsy and Ravelry stores.

6. Amelia Short-Sleeve Cardigan

4 photos of a woman standing on a decking styling a short sleeve crochet cardigan

This short sleeve cardigan uses a creative approach to using a band of filet crochet hearts in a patchwork style, eliminating the hassle of working in strips and sewing them together. You’ll enjoy how easy it is to build the ‘faux’ squares to achieve the desired effect.  Your cardigan will be a one-of-a-kind design that stands out from mass-produced clothing!

  • Recommended yarn: Yarnsmiths Pebble Haze DK (67% cotton and 33% acrylic)
  • Crochet stitches: filet, mesh
  • Instructions are written in US crochet terms for sizes S through to 5X.

7. Beginner-Friendly Granny Stitch Cardigan

A granny stitch cardigan crocheted in bright colours is laid out flat with the arms folded over
Jera’s Jamboree

My Alice granny stitch cardigan is the perfect project for having a rummage through your left-over yarn to use up your stash.

The free pattern features a striking contrast between vertical granny stitches on the front and back, and horizontal stitches on the sleeves. This is achieved by working lengthways (instead of widthways).

Free to view on the link above, you can also upgrade to a PDF in my Etsy and Ravelry stores.

8. Granny Stitch Hooded Cardigan

A woman is wearing a crochet cardigan with the hood up and the same cardigan is styled on a mannequin with the hood up
Jera’s Jamboree

My granny stitch cardigan is really comfortable wear and it looks great worn with a variety of outfits.

Using a seamless construction, I’ve used the granny stitch throughout the body and hood.  The cuffs, hem and edging are crocheted in single/double crochet back loop only.  Button holes are made on the edging by chaining and skipping stitches. 

Instructions are written in UK and US crochet terms to fit size S to 5X.

Free to view on my website, you and also work offline by upgrading to a PDF.

9. Striped Crochet Cardigan

A striped crochet cardigan is styled on a mannequin
Jera’s Jamboree

My cardigan pattern uses an easy two-row repeat and is constructed in separate pieces which are sewn together.

I’ve used bobbles and loops instead of a button band/buttons and used bobble stitches around the sleeve cuffs as part of the design.

Choose vibrant, cheerful shades for your cardigan to lift your spirits!

  • Recommended yarn: Cygnet Tickly Tots DK
  • Crochet Stitches: UK treble crochet, double crochet / US double crochet, single crochet
  • Instructions are written in UK and US crochet terms for sizes S to 3X.

Free to view on my website (ad supported) or you can buy a PDF in my Etsy store.

10. Long Sleeve Summer Cardigan

A crochet cardigan in orange, yellow, purple, green and blue is styled on a mannequin
Jera’s Jamboree

Despite being a long-sleeved garment, my cardigan is designed with a lightweight, open crochet stitch pattern, making it ideal for summer wear. It will provide you just the right amount of coverage for cooler evenings without feeling too heavy.

Worked in 5 separate simple shapes with minimal shaping and then seamed together, my pattern offers flexibility in terms of size (available in 6 sizes), colour (variegated or solid in bright colours or pastel colours – your choice!) and length (two lengths available).

  • Recommended Yarn: DK blend of cotton and acrylic
  • Crochet Stitches: V-Stitch, granny stitch
  • Instructions are written for sizes S to 3X

You can upgrade to a PDF in my shop.

11. Bolero

A lacy crochet bolero is styled on a mannequin showing the front, back and side view

This bolero pattern is worked in one piece from the hem and then divided for the fronts and back, simplifying the construction process. The sleeves are worked directly into the armhole so the only seams to sew are the shoulder seams. This is a great project if you prefer minimal finishing work!

  • Recommended yarn: Cotton Kings Sultan (100% soft cotton)
  • Crochet stitches: shell on chains using double treble crochet and single crochet
  • Instructions are written for sizes XS to 3X

Add a chic layer to any outfit, from casual wear in the warmer months to accessorising throughout the year for more formal occasions.

12. Crochet Lace Short Sleeve Cardigan

A woman is wearing a lacy short-sleeve cardigan over a tshirt and trousers
Mason Jar Yarn Designs

Lightweight and using an open-stitch pattern, this easy crochet summer cardigan is perfect for the warmer weather.

The body is made in three pieces that are seamed together and finished off with a simple crochet edging.

I love how easy this lacy crochet cardigan is to crochet and assemble!  And because it’s a one-row repeat worked from the bottom up, you’ll find it easy to adapt the length.  The sleeves are worked directly into the armhole making it easy to try on and change the length if you want to.  This design would look good with three-quarter sleeves or even bracelet length.  You might even consider leaving the cardi sleeveless.

  • Recommended yarn: Comfy Color Mist, 75% Pima Cotton / 25% Acrylic, worsted weight
  • Crochet stitches: clusters stacked on top of each other
  • Instructions are written for sizes: XS to 5X

The pattern is free on the numbered link above and you can also upgrade to a PDF in this designers Etsy shop.

13.  Sleeveless Summer Cardigan

A woman is wearing a purple sleevless cardigan paired with tshirt and jeans
Divine Debris

You’ll crochet three panels for this crochet sleeveless cardigan (back, right and left front).  As in the pattern above, the panels are worked from the bottom up in rows so you can add more or less rows to customize.  Once you’ve crocheted and blocked the panels, you’ll seam the shoulders and sides and you’re done. 

The pattern provides options for adding a simple border to the edges and around the armhole.

I love the simplicity of the construction and stitch pattern and think the cardi would look good for formal and informal occasions.

  • Recommended yarn:  Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, 100% Mercerized Cotton, worsted weight
  • Crochet Stitches:  half double crochet, treble crochet cluster, half double crochet cluster
  • Instructions are written for sizes: XS to 5X

Free pattern on the designers website and you can also buy the PDF of this pattern on Ravelry.

14. Lacy Summer Crochet Cardigan

A woman is walking through dried grass.  She is wearing a straw hat, summer dress and lacy summer cardigan
For the Frills

How elegant does this cardigan look!  The longer length is perfect worn over a short-sleeve or sleeveless summer dress.  The design is so versatile – dress it up or dress it down! The flattering shape would look good as a cover up on the beach and it will take you from day to evening wear.

Simple stitches and chains are used to create a lovely drape in this easy lace crochet summer cardigan.

You’ll work a back panel and two fronts before seaming together.  Easy!

  • Recommended yarn: LB Collection Mako Cotton, 94% Mako Cotton, 6% Nylon, worsted weight
  • Crochet Stitches: chains, double crochet and treble crochet stitches
  • Instructions are written for sizes: 30-34 (38-42, 45.5-49.5)”

Free to view on the designer’s website, the PDF is also available to purchase on Etsy.

15.  Summer Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Facing away, a woman is holding out the sides of a cardigan
Mama in a Stitch

I love the roomy, boxy fit of this summer make (and the cardigan makes a great beach or pool cover up too).

Worked in one piece, you will crochet a back panel from the bottom up then split the stitches for the neck opening and continue working for the two front panels.  The panels are then folded down, armhole depth measured and to finish, the sides are seamed.

  • Recommended yarn: LionBrand Comfy Cotton (discontinued – check the yarn substitutions on YarnSub)
  • Crochet Stitches: double crochet clusters, double crochet, chains
  • Instructions are written for sizes: S to XL

Free to view on the designer’s website, you can upgrade to a PDF.

16. How to Crochet a Lightweight Lacy Summer Cardigan

Standing in the shade, a woman is wearing a black tshirt and a lacy turquoise cardigan
Olga Poltava

This free lightweight crochet cardigan pattern is an easy project.  Constructed as one piece, you’ll then sew the seams on the side to assemble. This construction is similar to my Whispering Rose summer top with the only difference being I seamed at the front and back whereas this is a cardigan seamed at the sides.  

Adding a single crochet border around edges gives a lovely finish.  The video explains how to decrease the sleeves if you would like them closer fitting.

You will only need to take two measurements, which is explained in detail in the video tutorial.

Recommended yarn: cotton, category 2 weight (although DK will work too)

Crochet Stitches:  Lacy pattern is linked in the video

Instructions are written for sizes:  made-to-measure

You could personalize this cardigan by choosing your own stitch pattern.

17. Harper Crochet Cardigan

A woman is holding out the side of sleeveless cardigan which is worn over a black tshirt and light blue denim jeans
The Easy Design

Beginners are loving this cardigan summer top.  The pattern is easy to follow and works up well.

No increasing or decreasing!  And the length is easily adjustable.

Worked in basic crochet stitches to achieve the lacy pattern, you’ll have this made in no time.

  • Crochet Stitches: double crochet and chains
  • Instructions are written for sizes: XS to 3X

This is a paid pattern.

18. Mesh Crochet Cardigan

A woman is perched on a wall wearing khaki coloured trousers and a burnt orange mesh cardigan
Svetlana Avrakh

The patterns I’ve chosen to share with you up to this point have no increasing or decreasing (apart from my pattern that shapes the sleeves).  I wanted to give you the option of shaping the body of a cardigan so that you can either practise these skills or learn how to shape … a vital skill if you want to create different types of garments.

The body is worked in one piece to the armholes when you’ll work the back and fronts separately.  This construction is the same as my sleeveless mini bean stitch cardigan.  If you’re sensitive to seams in your clothing, this lacy summer cardigan is perfect for you.

This is a free PDF download on the numbered link above.

19. Summer Popcorn Crochet Cardigan

Standing on the sand with the sea in the background, a woman is wearing a violet lacy cardigan with a white top and white shorts
Thistle and Twig Crafts

I’ve shared short-sleeve and sleeveless cardigans up to now but there’s also some fab three-quarter sleeve patterns.

I love the elegance of this 70’s vintage Sirdar pattern.  It’s one of those garments that make you feel good just looking at it! And 100 dollars wearing it.

  • Recommended yarn: DK / Light Worsted
  • Crochet Stitches: Popcorn
  • Instructions are written for sizes: 30 – 40”

This is a paid pattern.

20. Crochet Summer Cardigan

A woman is perched on a wooden bench in a greenhouse wearing cut off shorts, khaki tshirt and a pastel orange three quartered sleeve lacy cardigan
A Crocheted Simplicity

This crochet cardigan for summer is worked from the bottom up starting with the rib and working until dividing the piece for the armholes.  The sleeves are crocheted separately and sewn into the armhole so although it’s not quite seamless (seams are on shoulders and sleeves) it’s an easy construction.  With the back and fronts worked in one piece there’s no fiddling around with the lacy stitch pattern!

I’ve mentioned Truboo is one of my favourite yarns to work with and this garment perfectly showcases the lovely drape you get from using this yarn. 

  • Recommended yarn:  Lion Brand Truboo,  100% bamboo, #3 DK weight
  • Crochet Stitches: single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, half double crochet 2 together
  • Instructions are written for sizes: XS to 5X

Lightweight and fashionable, this cardi is a great addition to your summer wardrobe.

Free to view on the designer’s website (at the numbered link) you can also upgrade to a PDF.

21. Lace Crochet Cardigan

A lacy turquoise crochet cardigan is worn over an orange dress
Yarnspirations

I really like the lacy stitch and edging of this design. 

This is another construction that’s worked in one piece until dividing until armholes (no side seams).  The sleeves are worked separately and sewn in.

  • Recommended yarn: Bernat Satin, 100% acrylic
  • Crochet Stitches: single crochet, double crochet
  • Instructions are written for sizes:  XS to 5X

Free to download as a PDF on the numbered link above.

22. Crochet Spring Summer Cardigan

A long sleeved cardigan in pale blue is worn over a grey tshirt and black leggings
Selina Veronique

This is an easy-to-follow pattern, with plenty of instructions.

Featuring a lovely filet crochet design, two pockets and long sleeves, this design is worked in separate pieces for the back, the 2 side panels, and 2 identical sleeves before sewing your cardigan together.

  • Recommended yarn: Caron Angel Cotton Cake, 60% Cotton, 40% Acrylic, #4 Worsted Weight
  • Crochet Stitches: Single Crochet, (UK Double Crochet), Double Crochet (UK Treble Crochet), Half Double Crochet (UK Half Double Treble)
  • Instructions are written for sizes: S to 3X

Free to view on the designer’s website, if you prefer to work offline, a PDF is available to purchase.

23.  Crochet Summer Cardigan

A woman is wearing ripped jeans and a grey tshirt covering up with a white long crochet cardigan
Lakeside Loops

If you’re wanting to crochet a long cardigan with full length sleeves, this breezy cover-up is perfect for Spring and Summer.  Layer it with your favourite t-shirt dress, jean shorts, or swimsuit at the beach or pool.

I love this airy design with the drapey sleeves!

Worked in sections and then seamed together you’ll crochet the back and front panel in rows from the top of the cardigan down.  The sleeves are worked in rows from the top of the sleeve down to the wrist and the collar trim is worked around the opening of the cardigan after the sections are seamed together. 

  • Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Coboo, 50% Cotton 50% Bamboo, DK weight
  • Instructions are written for sizes: XS to 4X

As well as the free pattern on the designer’s website, there is a video tutorial for you to follow and to work offline, you can upgrade to the PDF.

24. Lightweight Crochet Cardigan

A woman is wearing a lightweight crochet cardigan styled with a white t-shirt and jeans
Mama in a Stitch

This easy light cardigan pattern from Mama In A Stitch is perfect for spring and summer. The pattern uses double crochet and v-stitches, making it suitable for beginners.

If you prefer buttons on your cardigans, you can add optional buttons without needing to work buttonholes. I’m all for an easy life!

The designer recommends using Lion Brand Yarn Coboo, a light #3 yarn, and a larger hook (US Size H 5.0 mm) to open up the stitches.

The design involves creating three rectangular panels for the back and front, seaming them together, and then adding sleeves and ribbed trim. Easy!

25. Floral Cardigan

A woman is wearing a flora cardigan in cream paired with a black t-shirt and black trousers
Knitting with Chopsticks

How cute is this?

The pattern creates a beautiful, airy cardigan featuring a floral lace stitch that is suitable for beginner crocheters. It includes charts and written instructions.

The body is worked in one piece from the bottom up, then divided into three panels for the front and back (great for sensitive skin = no seams!). The sleeves are crocheted separately and sewn to the body.

This pattern includes a ribbing edge with buttonholes.

Tips for Crocheting your Summer Cardigan to get the Best Results

Finally, whether you are following a pattern or designing your own cardigan, I’m sharing my tips to help you achieve a fabulous finished project.

  • Choose open stitch patterns such as lace or mesh to create a fabric that is airy and breathable. I know it’s pretty obvious but using a suitable stitch will help prevent your cardigan from feeling too heavy or warm.
  • Consider the construction of your cardigan. Crochet motifs, granny squares, or panels worked in rows (this can be in separate pieces for back and fronts or worked as one piece) can create interesting textures and visual appeal while maintaining breathability. 
  • Take accurate measurements and adjust the pattern as needed so that you can achieve your desired fit. Crocheting your own cardigan typically allows you to customize the length, sleeve style, and overall fit to suit your preferences.  If you’re following a pattern, the designer will likely give tips on how and where to adjust the cardigan.
  • Short sleeves, cap sleeves, or even sleeveless designs maximize comfort in hot weather. You can also design or choose a crochet a pattern with three-quarter sleeves for a bit more coverage without sacrificing breathability.  Bracelet length sleeves worked in a lacy or mesh stitch work well too.  The crochet patterns I’ve handpicked include the different sleeves for variety.
  • Make your cardigan stand out by adding embellishments such as a picot edging, crocheted flowers, or embroidered details. I would caution you not to add too much bulk or weight to your garment if you’re wanting to wear a lightweight cardigan.
  • For summer crochet cardigans, blocking can be particularly useful for making sure that your fabric is lightweight and airy.  Blocking is the process of shaping your finished crochet piece by pinning it out and steaming or misting it with water. Blocking will help even out stitches, open up lace patterns, and improve the drape of your cardi.

I hope you’re excited to get started on crocheting a summer cardigan that is comfortable, stylish, and perfect for warm weather wear.

Related Summer Crochet Patterns

With these yarn choices, versatile stitches, tips and patterns you’re sure to crochet a summer cardigan that’s a stylish wardrobe staple you’ll wear on all your sunny escapades.  I hope you’ve found inspiration. Happy crocheting!

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