How to Crochet a Classic Heirloom Baby Cardigan: Free Pattern (0-3 Months)

Classic Heirloom Baby Cardigan

Looking for the perfect handmade gift? This Classic Heirloom Baby Cardigan is a timeless project designed for comfort, style, and durability. Crafted with soft 4-ply baby yarn and a 3mm hook, this pattern creates a delicate yet warm fabric that is ideal for newborns and infants up to 3 months. Featuring a sophisticated raglan construction and a stretchy ribbed finish, this cardigan offers a professional look even for intermediate beginners. In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything from the initial foundation chain to the detailed front-post ribbing and underarm shaping. With a finished chest measurement of 16 inches and an 8-inch total length, this "petite" design ensures a snug, cozy fit. Whether you are crocheting for your own little one or creating a thoughtful baby shower gift, the textured stitches and classic silhouette make this cardigan a true keepsake. Follow our step-by-step instructions to master the V-stitch corners and seamless sleeve joins. Grab your favorite 4-ply yarn and a 3mm hook, and let’s start stitching this beautiful wardrobe staple today!

Pattern Specifications

Yarn	4-Ply Baby Yarn (approx. 150g)
Hook Size	3mm
Finished Chest	16 Inches
Total Length	8 Inches
Sleeve Length	4 Inches (Underarm to wrist)

Special Stitch:
V-Stitch (Corner): Work (1 dc, ch 2, 1 dc) in the same stitch or space.

I. The Yoke

Foundation: Chain 62.

Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook. Dc in next 8 sts (Front), V-st in next st, dc in next 9 sts (Sleeve), V-st in next st, dc in next 18 sts (Back), V-st in next st, dc in next 9 sts (Sleeve), V-st in next st, dc in last 11 sts. Turn.

Row 2: Ch 2 (does not count as st). *Dc in each st until ch-2 space, V-st in ch-2 space.* Repeat from * 3 more times. Dc in remaining sts to end. Turn.

Rows 3 – 8: Repeat Row 2 for 6 more rows.

II. The Body

Row 9 (Joining): Ch 2. Dc in each st until 1st corner, dc in corner space, ch 8. Skip sleeve stitches, dc in 2nd corner space. Dc in each st across Back. Dc in 3rd corner space, ch 8. Skip sleeve stitches, dc in 4th corner space. Dc in each st to end.

Row 10: Ch 2. Dc in each st across, including 1 dc in each chain of the underarm.

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Rows 11 – 22: Ch 2. Dc in each st across (approx. 11-12 rows). Work until body measures 7 inches from shoulder.

Bottom Ribbing

Row 1: Ch 2. *FPDC in next st, BPDC in next st.* Repeat from * to end.

Rows 2 – 3: Repeat Row 1. Fasten off.

III. The Sleeves

Join yarn at center of underarm. Work in rounds.

Round 1: Ch 2. Dc in each st around, including underarm chains. Sl st to join.

Round 2: Ch 2. Dc2tog (decrease), dc in each st until last 2 sts, dc2tog. Sl st to join.

Rounds 3 – 8: Ch 2. Dc in each st around.

Cuff Ribbing: Work 3-4 rounds of alternating FPDC and BPDC.

IV. Neckline

Rows 1 – 3: Join yarn at neck edge. Ch 1. Sc in each st around neckline. Repeat for 3 rows. Fasten off and weave in all ends.