Below is a detailed tutorial-style guide you can use for learning or writing a pattern for a “Winter’s Tale” crochet cardigan/coat for girls. This design focuses on warmth, texture, and a cozy winter style.
How to Crochet a “Winter’s Tale” Cardigan/Coat for Girls
The “Winter’s Tale” cardigan/coat is a cozy, textured crochet garment perfect for cold weather. It usually features thick yarn, textured stitches, long sleeves, and sometimes a hood or decorative buttons. This cardigan works well for everyday winter wear and special occasions.
1. Materials Needed
Prepare all materials before starting.
Yarn
- Bulky or worsted weight yarn (soft acrylic, wool, or wool blend)
- 600–900 g depending on size
Crochet Hook
- 5 mm – 6 mm crochet hook
Other Tools
- Yarn needle
- Stitch markers
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Buttons (4–6 pieces)
Optional:
- Faux fur yarn for hood trim
- Wooden buttons for a winter look
2. Stitches Used
The cardigan uses a combination of simple and textured stitches.
Basic stitches:
- Chain (ch)
- Slip stitch (sl st)
- Single crochet (sc)
- Half double crochet (hdc)
- Double crochet (dc)
Textured stitches (optional but recommended):
- Front post double crochet (fpdc)
- Back post double crochet (bpdc)
These create a ribbed winter texture.
3. Measurements
Take the child’s measurements before starting.
Typical measurements (Age 5–6 example):
- Chest: 64 cm
- Cardigan length: 48 cm
- Sleeve length: 40 cm
- Shoulder width: 28 cm
Add 4–6 cm ease so the coat fits comfortably over clothing.
4. Crochet Gauge
Make a small test square before starting.
Example gauge:
10 cm × 10 cm =
- 12 double crochet stitches
- 8 rows
Adjust hook size if necessary.
5. Crochet the Back Panel
- Chain 60–70 stitches depending on size.
- Row 1: Double crochet in the 3rd chain from hook and across.
- Row 2: Chain 2, turn, double crochet across.
- Row 3: Alternate fpdc and bpdc to create texture.
Repeat rows until the piece measures about 30–35 cm.
Shape the Armholes
- Skip 3 stitches at the beginning of the next row.
- Work across.
- Repeat decreases for 2–3 rows.
Continue straight until total length reaches the shoulder.
6. Crochet the Front Panels (Make 2)
Each front panel is half the width of the back.
- Chain 30–35 stitches.
- Work the same stitch pattern as the back panel.
- Continue until reaching armhole height.
Shape the Neckline
When reaching the upper chest:
- Decrease 1 stitch every row on the neck side.
- Continue until shoulder height matches the back panel.
Repeat for the second front piece.
7. Crochet the Sleeves
- Chain 28–32 stitches.
- Row 1: Half double crochet across.
- Continue in textured stitch pattern.
Sleeve increases
Increase 1 stitch on each side every 3 rows.
Continue until sleeve reaches the desired length.
Fold sleeve in half and sew the seam.
8. Assemble the Cardigan
- Sew front panels to back panel at shoulders.
- Sew side seams, leaving armholes open.
- Attach sleeves to the armholes.
- Sew sleeve seams.
Turn the coat right side out.
9. Crochet the Collar or Hood (Optional)
Simple Collar
- Attach yarn at neckline.
- Single crochet evenly around the neck.
- Continue rows of hdc or ribbed stitches for 6–8 rows.
Hood Option
- Crochet a rectangle the width of the neckline.
- Fold it in half.
- Sew the top seam.
- Attach to neckline.
Optional: add faux fur trim.
10. Add Front Border
Attach yarn at the bottom of one front panel.
Crochet single crochet or ribbed stitches:
- Up the front
- Around the neck
- Down the other side
This creates a neat finishing edge.
11. Add Buttonholes
On one side of the border:
- Single crochet to button position.
- Chain 2.
- Skip 2 stitches.
- Continue single crochet.
Repeat for 4–6 buttonholes.
12. Sew Buttons
Sew buttons on the opposite front panel aligned with the buttonholes.
Wooden or large decorative buttons give the cardigan a storybook winter style.
13. Finishing Touches
- Weave in all yarn ends.
- Lightly block the cardigan for shape.
- Add optional decorations:
- Pockets
- Flower appliqués
- Snowflake buttons
- Belt
Estimated Project Time
- Beginner: 12–16 hours
- Intermediate crocheter: 8–10 hours
Design Tip:
Use cream, soft pink, dusty blue, or winter white yarn to create a magical “Winter’s Tale” look.
Watch tutorial:
