How to Crochet the Blooms Cardigan Step by Step Tutorial for Beginners

How to Crochet the Blooms Cardigan – Step-by-Step Tutorial for Beginners

Crochet the Blooms Cardigan

Crocheting a cardigan can be one of the most rewarding handmade projects for any crafter. The Blooms Cardigan is a beautiful piece that combines elegant texture with a soft, modern silhouette. Whether you’re new to crochet or looking to expand your wardrobe with something cozy and stylish, this tutorial will guide you through every step of making this floral-inspired cardigan from start to finish.

Introduction

The Blooms Cardigan gets its name from the delicate flower-like stitch pattern that decorates the body and sleeves. It’s lightweight yet warm, perfect for layering over dresses, tank tops, or casual outfits. This project is great for advanced beginners who already know the basic crochet stitches but want to learn how to assemble a wearable garment.
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to crochet each part of the cardigan — from the back and front panels to the sleeves and final edging — using simple stitches that create a floral texture.

Materials You’ll Need

To make your own Blooms Cardigan, gather these materials before you begin:

Yarn: Medium-weight (category 3 or 4) cotton or acrylic blend yarn. Choose soft, breathable yarn in your favorite color.
Hook: Use the hook size recommended on your yarn label (usually 4 mm to 5 mm for this weight).
Scissors for cutting yarn
Yarn needle for weaving in ends
Stitch markers to help shape panels evenly
Measuring tape to ensure accurate sizing

You can adjust the yarn weight or hook size depending on whether you prefer a tighter or looser texture.

Stitches Used

This cardigan uses a combination of basic and decorative crochet stitches to achieve its beautiful floral texture:

Chain (ch) – the foundation of most crochet patterns
Slip stitch (sl st) – for joining and finishing neatly
Single crochet (sc) – creates a tight, solid base
Double crochet (dc) – forms the body of the cardigan and gives a light drape
Puff stitch or cluster stitch – used to create the “bloom” or flower-like design

If you’re new to the puff or cluster stitch, practice a few rows first. The technique involves pulling up several loops in the same stitch and closing them together to form a raised texture that looks like tiny blossoms.

Step 1: Crochet the Back Panel

Start by making a foundation chain that matches your bust width measurement. The back panel is worked from the bottom up.

Row 1: Work one double crochet into the fourth chain from the hook, then across each stitch.
Row 2: Chain three (counts as first dc), and turn your work. Continue making rows of double crochet until the piece reaches your desired length from the waist to underarm.
To add the bloom texture, alternate one row of double crochet with one row of puff stitches. This creates a floral look without adding too much thickness.

Continue working until the back panel measures the full length of your torso.

Step 2: Make the Front Panels

The Blooms Cardigan has two identical front panels.

Begin with a foundation chain half the width of the back panel.
Work the same pattern as the back — alternating rows of double crochet and puff stitches.
When you reach the shoulder area, leave a small gap for the neckline shaping by skipping several stitches on the inner side of each panel.

You should now have two mirror-image front panels ready to be attached.

Step 3: Create the Sleeves

Start each sleeve at the wrist with a chain that fits comfortably around your hand.
Work in rows of double crochet for a few inches, then begin adding puff stitches every other row to match the body’s texture.
Gradually increase stitches along both edges to create a gentle flare or keep it straight for a classic fit.
Continue until the sleeve reaches your desired length, ending at the shoulder.

Step 4: Joining the Cardigan

Lay all your pieces flat — one back panel, two front panels, and two sleeves.

Align the shoulders of the front and back panels and sew or slip stitch them together.
Fold the sleeves in half lengthwise and attach them to the arm openings.
Once the sleeves are joined, sew along the sides of the cardigan and under the sleeves to close the seams neatly.

Try on the cardigan to check the fit before weaving in all loose ends.

Step 5: Finishing and Edging

To complete the Blooms Cardigan, crochet a decorative edging around the front opening and neckline.

Work a round of single crochet evenly along the edges.
For a more delicate finish, you can add a scalloped or picot edge using simple chains and single crochets.
Weave in all yarn ends securely.

If you’d like, add buttons or a tie belt for closure — or leave it open for a casual, draped look.

Final Touches and Styling Tips

Block your cardigan by gently steaming or pinning it to shape — this helps the bloom stitches open up beautifully.
Pair your finished Blooms Cardigan with jeans, skirts, or dresses. The texture gives it a timeless handmade charm that’s perfect for any season.
You can experiment with yarn colors — try a soft pastel for spring or deep, earthy tones for fall. Add a matching crochet flower brooch to complete the look!

Conclusion

Making your own Blooms Cardigan is a fun, creative way to bring both comfort and beauty into your handmade wardrobe. With just a few simple stitches and patience, you’ll have a unique piece that reflects your personal style.
Crochet is all about slowing down and enjoying the process — so take your time, and watch your cardigan “bloom” with every stitch.