I bought these absolutely adorable cakes from Walmart: Lion Brand Mandala Baby Yarn cakes in the color Echo Caves 🖤
The material is Acrylic but it is super soft and light weight!
This yarn was so fun to use and the pattern was really fun to make. I really wanted to try making myself more sweaters, I’ve tried twice to make myself a sweater and this is the first once I’ve officially finished :)
I’m super proud of my crochet journey and cannot wait to find my next project ✨
... Read moreI've seen so many people admire hexagon granny square cardigans, and for good reason! They're such a fun project to tackle, even if you're relatively new to garment making. When I first started my own, I was a little intimidated by the idea of shaping a sweater, but these cardigans are surprisingly straightforward once you get the hang of the basic hexagon.
The magic truly lies in crocheting just two large hexagons! Each one starts from the center and grows outwards, creating a natural armhole as you increase. You simply fold them in half, join them at the back, and then work on filling in the gaps for the sleeves and adding any desired length to the body. It’s an ingenious design that minimizes seaming, which is a huge plus for many crocheters.
Choosing the right yarn makes a huge difference. I personally loved working with a gradient yarn, similar to the Lion Brand Mandala Baby Yarn mentioned in the original post. These cakes are fantastic because they do all the color work for you, creating beautiful, flowing transitions without having to join new colors constantly. You can achieve those lovely multi-colored effects, featuring shades like blue, green, and white, effortlessly. Acrylic yarns, especially those designed for babies, are often super soft and lightweight, making them perfect for a cozy yet not-too-heavy cardigan. Just make sure to check your gauge to ensure your hexagons come out the right size for your desired fit!
For those wondering about the 'granny square' part, it means you're typically using clusters of double crochets (or other stitches) separated by chain spaces, which gives that classic open, lacy look. This pattern is very repetitive and meditative once you get going, making it a perfect project to pick up while watching TV or listening to a podcast.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different hook sizes or yarn types. A larger hook with a thinner yarn can create a more drapey, open fabric, while a smaller hook with a thicker yarn will give you a denser, warmer garment. The beauty of crochet is its flexibility!
If you're just starting, I recommend watching a few video tutorials on how to create a basic hexagon. Once you understand the increase rounds, you'll be well on your way. And remember, every stitch is a step forward in your crochet journey. Seeing your very own handmade cardigan come together, with its unique granny square pattern and beautiful color shifts, is an incredibly rewarding feeling. It's truly a piece of wearable art you can be proud of!