Cookies Cardigan

Cookies Cardigan by Lena Fedotova

What is Being Made

The Cookies Cardigan is an advanced-level crocheted cardigan constructed from geometric motifs. This garment features an oversized, cozy fit achieved through strategically placed hexagonal and pentagonal crochet motifs that are joined together using a specialized technique. The design creates the visual effect of needlepoint lace with a spectacular circular stitch pattern across the front and body of the cardigan.

Design and Construction Technique

The Cookies Cardigan employs a modular construction method, where individual crochet motifs are created separately and then joined together to form the complete garment. The primary structural elements are hexagonal motifs, which when joined using a specific joining method, create the illusion of continuous circles and needlepoint lace work. Pentagonal motifs are strategically positioned throughout the design to create smooth, flowing lines on the front panels, establish a straight neckline, and taper the bottom of the sleeves while maintaining the continuity of the circular pattern. This thoughtful placement of different motif shapes allows the designer to achieve tailored shaping while preserving the overall aesthetic integrity of the geometric design.

Stitches and Techniques Used

This project utilizes fundamental crochet stitches and techniques appropriate for lace-weight yarn work:

• Chain (ch) – Used as the foundation for motif construction and to create openwork spaces
• Double crochet (dc) – The primary stitch for building the hexagonal and pentagonal motifs
• Chain spaces (ch-sp) – Openwork elements that contribute to the lace-like appearance and allow the yarn to drape elegantly
• Motif joining – A specialized joining method that connects individual hexagonal motifs in a way that creates the visual effect of continuous circular patterns
• Blocking – Essential finishing technique to set the motif shapes and ensure proper fit and drape

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern recommends Malabrigo Lace, which is 100% merino wool. This lace-weight yarn provides 470 yards (430 meters) per 50-gram skein. Yardage requirements vary by size: the Small and Medium sizes require 4 skeins, while the Large size requires 5 skeins, for a total of approximately 1,880 to 2,350 yards depending on size selection.

Hooks and Tools: Two different hook sizes are used throughout the project to accommodate the varying motif types. A US C (2.75mm) hook is used for crocheting the circle motifs, while a smaller US B (2.25mm) hook is used for the pentagonal motifs. This size variation allows for precise control and consistent motif dimensions. A yarn needle is required for sewing and weaving in ends.

Finished Sizes and Motif Dimensions

The Cookies Cardigan is available in three finished sizes: Small, Medium, and Large, with specific finished dimensions provided for each size layout. When blocked, the hexagonal circle motifs measure 2¾ inches (7 centimeters) in diameter, while the pentagonal motifs measure 2 inches (5 centimeters) in diameter. These precise measurements are essential for achieving the correct finished garment dimensions and ensuring proper fit.

Difficulty Level

This project is classified as advanced-level crochet. The complexity arises from working with delicate lace-weight yarn, managing multiple motif types with different hook sizes, executing a specialized motif-joining technique, and understanding how to strategically place different shapes to achieve tailored garment shaping while maintaining visual coherence. Crocheters should have solid foundational skills and experience with motif-based construction before undertaking this project.