Sloane One Piece Cardigan

Wrap yourself in handmade elegance with this seamless, one-piece crochet cardigan featuring stunning bell sleeves and a beautifully draped collar.

Have you ever stared at a pile of freshly crocheted sweater pieces and felt a sudden wave of dread?

I certainly have.

Seaming is often the bane of a crocheter's existence. We love the rhythm of the stitches, but sewing those pieces together at the end can feel like a chore that drags on forever. It is so easy to end up with misaligned shoulders or bulky, awkward seams that ruin the drape of your beautiful fabric.

That is exactly why I fell in love with seamless garment construction. By working a cardigan in one continuous piece, you completely bypass the sewing needle. You get to watch your garment take shape right on your hook, resulting in a perfectly fluid drape that moves with your body.

Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to the Sloane Cardigan. This design is incredibly clever yet surprisingly simple, constructed from a basic rectangle with strategically placed armhole slits.

We will be working this beauty sideways, which creates gorgeous vertical lines that are incredibly flattering. To finish it off, we will crochet the dramatic bell sleeves directly into the armholes. If you prefer a classic look, you can easily customize the sleeves to be straight and snug. Let's grab our hooks and dive in!

Why You'll Love This Pattern

• Zero Seaming: The entire body is worked in one piece, meaning you won't have to sew any panels together at the end.
• Flattering Silhouette: The sideways construction creates vertical stitch lines that drape beautifully and elongate the body.
• Customizable Sleeves: Easily transition from dramatic, feminine bell sleeves to a classic straight sleeve depending on your style.

Materials You'll Need

• Yarn: Lion Brand Heartland (Medium weight, size 4, 251 yards/230 meters per skein). The sample uses the shade Mount Rainier.
• Hook: 6.5 mm (or size needed to meet gauge).
• Notions: Yarn needle for weaving in ends.
• Yardage: Approximately 4 to 6 skeins (approx. 1,000 to 1,500 yards) depending on your chosen size.

Gauge & Sizing

• Gauge: 3 shell repeats = 5 inches using a 6.5 mm hook. To test your gauge, chain 30 + 4 and work Rows 1 through 5 of the pattern.
• Sizes included: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large.
• Finished measurements:
  • Small: 24" length from shoulder to hem; 14" shoulder width.
  • Medium: 24" length from shoulder to hem; 15" shoulder width.
  • Large: 25" length from shoulder to hem; 16.5" shoulder width.
  • XL: 25" length from shoulder to hem; 17" shoulder width.

Abbreviations & Stitch Instructions

• ch: Chain
• sc: Single crochet
• hdc: Half double crochet
• dc: Double crochet
• tr: Treble crochet
• sk: Skip
• st: Stitch
• sl st: Slip stitch
• RS: Right side of your work
• WS: Wrong side of your work
• dc2tog (Double Crochet Two Together): Yarn over, insert hook in stitch, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through 2 loops. Yarn over, insert hook in next stitch, pull up a loop (4 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through 2 loops (3 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through all 3 loops.
• shell: Work 5 double crochet stitches into the same designated chain-2 space.
• reverse single crochet: Also known as the crab stitch, this is worked from left to right to create a beautiful textured border.

Pattern Notes

• Skill Level: Easy / Intermediate.
• This pattern is written in US crochet terms. For help translating terms, check out our US to UK Crochet Chart.
• The body of the cardigan is worked flat as a single rectangle, while the sleeves are worked in the round directly into the armholes.
• Tension Tip: Keep your stitches relaxed, especially on the leveling rows, to maintain a soft, flowing fabric.
• Customization Tip: You can easily adjust the length of the cardigan by changing the number of chains in your starting foundation. If you do this, check out this guide on How to Adjust Your Foundation Chain to make sure your stitch pattern stays perfectly aligned.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Crafting the Main Body Panel

We will begin by working the body of the cardigan sideways. The length of your starting chain will determine the overall height of your garment.

Chain 94 (94, 99, 99).

Row 1: Working into the back bumps of your starting chain, place 1 dc in the 5th chain from your hook. * (ch 2, skip 2 chains, 1 dc in each of the next 3 chains). Repeat from * until you have 4 chains remaining. Chain 2, skip 2 chains, 1 dc in the final 2 chains. Turn your work. [55 (55, 58, 58) dc]

Row 2: Ch 1, 1 sc in the very first stitch. * (Skip the next dc, work a shell of 5 dc in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * across. After working your final shell in the last ch-2 space, skip the next dc and place 1 sc in the top of your turning ch-3. Turn. [18 (18, 19, 19) shells]

Row 3: Ch 5 (this counts as 1 tr and ch 1), skip the next stitch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip the next 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on top of the final shell, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, 1 tr in the last sc. Turn. [56 (56, 59, 59) stitches]

Row 4: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc in the first ch-1 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * across. After placing your sc on top of the final dc group, skip the next dc, work 2 dc in the next chain, and 1 dc in the final chain. Turn. [17 (17, 18, 18) full shells with a half-shell on each end]

Row 5: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 1 dc in the next stitch. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on the final shell, ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in the next stitch, 1 dc in the top of the turning ch-3. Turn. [55 (55, 58, 58) dc]

Note: Your fabric strip should measure approximately 30 (30, 31.5, 31.5) inches at this stage.

Repeat Rows 2 through 5 until you reach a total of 25 rows. Next, we will prepare the first armhole by leveling the stitches.

Step 2: Creating the First Armhole (Size Small)

Row 26: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch, skip the next dc. * (Work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc, skip the next dc). Repeat from * until you have completed 10 shells and have 8 ch-2 spaces remaining. * (Work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 dc in the next dc, skip the next dc). Repeat from * 3 more times. * (Work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc, skip the next dc). Repeat from * until you work a shell in the final ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the top of the turning ch-3. Turn. [18 shells]

Row 27: Ch 5 (counts as 1 tr and ch 1), skip the next stitch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 1 more time. Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 2 stitches, ch 20, skip 24 stitches, 1 dc in the next stitch (this is the 4th dc of a shell). * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on top of the final shell, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, 1 tr in the last sc. Turn. [44 stitches]

Row 28: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc in the first ch-1 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * until you complete a shell in the ch-2 space right before your long chain. Skip the next dc, work 1 sc in the very first chain of your long loop. * (Skip 1 chain, 2 dc in the next chain, 3 dc in the next chain, skip 1 chain, 1 sc in the next chain). Repeat from * 2 more times. Skip the next chain, work 2 dc in the next chain, 3 dc in the next chain, skip the final chain, 1 sc in the next dc. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * across. After placing your sc on top of the final dc group, skip the next dc, work 2 dc in the next chain, and 1 dc in the final chain. Turn. [17 shells with a half-shell on each end]

Note: The armhole opening will measure about 6.75 inches, and the collar section following it will be 6 inches.

Now, repeat Rows 5, 2, 3, and 4 until you have completed 22 rows from the armhole slit (making 49 rows total from the start).

Second Armhole (Size Small): Repeat Rows 26, 27, and 28 to create your second armhole. Then, repeat Rows 5, 2, 3, and 4 until you have worked 26 rows past the second armhole. Your final row will be a repeat of Row 5. Do not fasten off. Skip to the Edging section.

Step 3: Creating the First Armhole (Size Medium)

Repeat Rows 2 through 5 until you have completed 27 rows.

Row 28: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc in the first ch-1 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * until you have completed one half-shell and 9 full shells (or when 8 ch-2 spaces remain). Work 4 dc in the next ch-2 space, 1 dc in the next stitch (the first of the 3 dc stitches), ch 23, skip a total of 21 stitches and chains, 1 dc in the next stitch (the last of the 3 dc), work a shell in the adjacent ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * 1 more time. After placing your sc on top of the final dc group, skip the next dc, work 2 dc in the next chain, and 1 dc in the final chain. Turn. [13 shells with a half-shell on each end; note that one shell will only contain 4 dc]

Row 29: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 1 dc in the next stitch. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 2 more times. Ch 2, skip the next 2 dc and 1 chain, 1 dc in each of the next 3 chains. * (Ch 2, skip 3 chains, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 2 more times. Ch 2, skip the last chain and the next stitch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on the final shell, ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in the next stitch, 1 dc in the top of the turning ch-3. Turn. [55 dc]

Now, repeat Rows 2, 3, 4, and 5 until you have worked 25 rows from the armhole slit (making 53 rows total from the start).

Note: The armhole opening will measure about 6.75 inches, and the collar section following it will be 6 inches.

Second Armhole (Size Medium):

Row 54: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch. * (Skip the next dc, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * until you have completed 10 shells (or when 8 ch-2 spaces remain). Skip the next dc, work 1 dc in each of the next 2 chains (do not work into the ch-2 space this time), ch 24, skip a total of 20 stitches and chains, 1 dc in the next dc (the first of the 3 dc stitches), 1 dc in the next stitch. * (Work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * across. After working your final shell in the last ch-2 space, skip the next dc and place 1 sc in the top of your turning ch-3. Turn. [13 full shells]

Row 55: Ch 5 (counts as 1 tr and ch 1), skip the next stitch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 1 more time. Ch 2, skip 2 stitches, 1 dc in the next dc and the first 2 chains. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 2 more times. Ch 2, skip 2 stitches, 1 dc in each of the last 2 chains and the next dc. * (Ch 2, skip the next 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on top of the final shell, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, 1 tr in the last sc. Turn. [56 stitches]

Now, repeat Rows 4, 5, 2, and 3 until you have completed 27 rows after the second armhole. Your final row will be a repeat of Row 5. Do not fasten off. Skip to the Edging section.

Step 4: Creating the First Armhole (Size Large)

Repeat Rows 2 through 5 until you have completed 27 rows.

Row 28: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc in the first ch-1 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * until you have completed one half-shell and 9 full shells (or when 9 ch-2 spaces remain). * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 dc in the next stitch). Repeat from * 5 more times. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * across. After placing your sc on top of the final dc group, skip the next dc, work 2 dc in the next chain, and 1 dc in the final chain. Turn. [18 shells with a half-shell on each end]

Row 29: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 1 dc in the next stitch. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 2 more times. Ch 2, skip 2 stitches, 1 dc in the next dc (the first dc of the shell), ch 23, skip 28 stitches, 1 dc in the next stitch (this will be a dc between 2 shells), ch 1, skip 1 stitch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on the final shell, ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in the next stitch, 1 dc in the top of the turning ch-3. Turn. [45 dc]

Row 30: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch. * (Skip the next dc, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * until you have completed 10 shells. Work 4 dc in the next ch-1 space, 1 dc in the next dc right before your long chain loop. Skip 1 chain, 1 sc in the next chain. * (Skip 1 chain, 2 dc in the next chain, 3 dc in the next chain, skip 1 chain, 1 sc in the next chain). Repeat from * 3 more times. Skip the last chain and the next dc, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (Skip the next dc, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * across. After working your final shell in the last ch-2 space, skip the next dc and place 1 sc in the top of your turning ch-3. Turn. [19 shells]

Note: The armhole opening will measure about 8 inches, and the collar section following it will be 6.25 to 6.5 inches.

Now, repeat Rows 3, 4, 5, and 2 until you have worked 26 rows from the armhole slit (making 55 rows total from the start).

Second Armhole (Size Large): Repeat Rows 28, 29, and 30 to create your second armhole. Then, repeat Rows 3, 4, 5, and 2 until you have completed 28 rows past the second armhole. Your final row will be a repeat of Row 5. Do not fasten off. Skip to the Edging section.

Step 5: Creating the First Armhole (Size Extra Large)

Repeat Rows 2 through 5 until you have completed 29 rows.

Row 30: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch. * (Skip the next dc, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * until you have completed 10 shells (or when 9 ch-2 spaces remain). Skip the next dc, work 1 dc in each of the next 2 chains (do not work into the ch-2 space this time), ch 27, skip 23 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 2 chains, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (Work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * across. After working your final shell in the last ch-2 space, skip the next dc and place 1 sc in the top of your turning ch-3. Turn. [13 full shells]

Row 31: Ch 5 (counts as 1 tr and ch 1), skip the next stitch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 1 more time. Ch 2, skip 2 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 2 dc and the first chain. * (Ch 2, skip 2 chains, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches, ch 2, skip 3 chains, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 1 more time until 4 chains remain. Ch 2, skip 2 chains, 1 dc in each of the last 2 chains and the next dc. * (Ch 2, skip the next 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on top of the final shell, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, 1 tr in the last sc. Turn. [59 stitches]

Note: The armhole opening will measure about 8 inches, and the collar section following it will be 6 to 6.25 inches.

Now, repeat Rows 4, 5, 2, and 3 until you have worked 27 rows from the armhole slit (making 57 rows total from the start).

Second Armhole (Size Extra Large):

Row 58: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch. * (Skip the next dc, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * until you have completed 10 shells. * (Skip the next dc, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 dc in the next dc). Repeat from * 4 more times. * (Work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc, skip the next dc). Repeat from * across. After working your final shell in the last ch-2 space, skip the next dc and place 1 sc in the top of your turning ch-3. Turn. [19 shells]

Row 59: Ch 5 (counts as 1 tr and ch 1), skip the next stitch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * 2 more times. Ch 23, skip 27 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip the next 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on top of the final shell, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, 1 tr in the last sc. Turn. [47 stitches]

Row 60: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc in the first ch-1 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * until you have completed one half-shell and 10 full shells. Skip the next dc, work 2 dc in the first chain, 3 dc in the next chain, skip the next chain, 1 sc in the next chain. * (Skip the next chain, work 2 dc in the next chain, 3 dc in the next chain, skip the next chain, 1 sc in the next chain). Repeat from * 2 more times. Skip the next chain, work 2 dc in the next chain, 3 dc in the next chain, skip the last chain and the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc. * (Skip the next stitch, work a shell in the next ch-2 space, skip the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * across. After placing your sc on top of the final dc group, skip the next dc, work 2 dc in the next chain, and 1 dc in the final chain. Turn. [18 shells with a half-shell on each end]

Now, repeat Rows 5, 2, 3, and 4 until you have worked 29 rows past the second armhole. Your final row will be a repeat of Row 4 (a shell row).

To make the edge straight like the foundation side, we will work a leveling row. Keep your chains loose here (feel free to go up a hook size if needed):

Leveling Row: Ch 2, 1 hdc in the first stitch, 1 hdc in the next stitch. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 hdc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 hdc on the final shell, ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 hdc in the next stitch, 1 hdc in the top of the turning ch-3. Do not fasten off. [58 hdc]

Step 6: Adding the Edging (All Sizes)

Note on sides: The right side (RS) of your work is the side where you worked your double crochet rows (Rows 3 and 5). The wrong side (WS) is the side where you worked your shell rows.

With the right side facing you, ch 1 and work a round of single crochet evenly all the way around the entire rectangular panel. Be sure to work 2 sc stitches into each corner to help you turn smoothly. Slip stitch to the first sc and fasten off.

Now, join your yarn on the wrong side of your work. We will work a reverse single crochet (crab stitch) border only along the collar area. Do not extend this border past the collar, or it will alter the drape of the hem. This beautiful textured edge will be visible once the collar is folded over.

Step 7: Crocheting the Sleeves (All Sizes)

We will work the sleeves directly into the armhole slits on the right side of your work. You will work into the skipped stitches on one side of the slit, into the free loops of the chain on the opposite side, and into the posts of the double crochet stitches at the top and bottom of the slit.

Tip: When working into the chain side, insert your hook slightly below the edge rather than just into the free loops. This adds extra strength to your fabric and prevents stretching.

Round 1: Slip stitch to the base of the armhole slit, ch 3 (counts as first dc here and throughout). Work 48 (48, 55, 55) dc evenly around the slit. Slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Turn. [49 (49, 56, 56) dc]

Round 2: Ch 3, dc2tog, dc2tog, 1 dc in each stitch across until 4 stitches remain, dc2tog, dc2tog. Slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Turn. [45 (45, 52, 52) dc]

Round 3: Ch 3, 1 dc in each stitch across. Slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Turn. [45 (45, 52, 52) dc]

Round 4: Ch 3, dc2tog, 1 dc in each stitch across until 2 stitches remain, dc2tog. Slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Turn. [43 (43, 50, 50) dc]

Rounds 5 to 14: Repeat Rounds 3 through 5 three more times. You will end with 37 (37, 44, 44) stitches.

Round 15: Ch 3, 1 dc in each stitch across. Slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Turn. [37 (37, 44, 44) dc]

Round 16: Ch 3, dc2tog, 1 dc in each stitch across until 2 stitches remain, dc2tog. Slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Turn. [35 (35, 42, 42) dc]

Rounds 17 to 18 (for Sizes S and M): Repeat Rounds 15 and 16 one more time. [33 dc]

Rounds 17 to 20 (for Sizes L and XL): Repeat Rounds 15 and 16 two more times. [38 dc]

Next Round (All Sizes): Ch 3, 1 dc in each stitch across. Slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Turn. [33 (33, 38, 38) dc]

Sleeve Extension: Repeat the previous round 4 (5, 5, 5) more times, or until your sleeve measures 14 (14.5, 14.5, 14.5) inches from the very first double crochet round.

Now we will work the bell portion. All rounds of the bell are worked on the right side of your sleeve without turning at the end of the rounds.

Bell Round 1: Ch 1, 1 sc in the same stitch as your beginning ch-1, 1 sc in each stitch across. Slip stitch to the first sc. Do not turn. [33 (33, 38, 38) stitches]

Bell Round 2 (Sizes S and M only): Ch 1, 2 sc in the same stitch as your ch-1. * (1 sc in the next stitch, 2 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * across. Slip stitch to the first sc. Do not turn. [50 (50) stitches]

Bell Round 2 (Sizes L and XL only): Ch 1, 1 sc in the same stitch as your ch-1, 1 sc in the next stitch. * (2 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch). Repeat from * until 2 stitches remain, 1 sc in each of the last 2 stitches. Slip stitch to the first sc. Do not turn. [55 stitches]

Bell Round 3 (All Sizes): Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 1 dc in each of the next 2 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip 2 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * until 2 stitches remain. Ch 2, slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Do not turn. [30 (30, 33, 33) dc]

Bell Round 4: 1 sc in the next dc (this is the middle dc of your 3-dc group). * (Skip the next dc, work a shell of 5 dc in the next ch-2 space, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc). Repeat from * across. After working your final shell in the last ch-2 space, slip stitch to your first sc. Do not turn. [10 (10, 11, 11) shells]

Bell Round 5: Slip stitch loosely into the next 2 dc of the shell, ch 3 (counts as first dc), 1 dc in each of the next 2 stitches. * (Ch 2, skip 3 stitches, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches). Repeat from * across. After placing 3 dc on the final shell, ch 2, slip stitch to the top of your beginning ch-3. Do not turn.

Finishing the Bell (Sizes S and M): Repeat Rounds 4, 5, and 4 once more. Fasten off.

Finishing the Bell (Sizes L and XL): Repeat Rounds 4, 5, 4, 5, and 4 once more. Fasten off.

Step 8: Finishing Touches

To complete your beautiful Sloane Cardigan, weave in all remaining yarn tails securely using your yarn needle. Give your cardigan a gentle steam blocking to open up the gorgeous shell stitches and relax the drape of the collar.

Easy Variations & Custom Ideas

• Straight Sleeves: If you prefer a more classic, fitted sleeve over the dramatic bell shape, simply skip the bell rounds. Continue repeating the basic double crochet rounds until the sleeve reaches your wrist, then finish with a simple single crochet border.
• Cozy Pockets: Who doesn't love pockets? You can easily crochet two simple square panels using the main stitch pattern and sew them onto the front of your cardigan. For inspiration on pocket placement and sizing, take a look at the Ivy Long Cardigan.
• Lightweight Summer Version: Swap out the warm Heartland yarn for a soft cotton or bamboo blend in a light worsted weight. This transforms the cardigan into a breezy, breathable layer perfect for warm weather, similar to the style of the Birdie Kimono.
• Color Blocking: Create a striking modern look by changing colors every few rows. You can use a neutral main color and add a vibrant contrasting shade for the collar and bell sleeves.
• Button Closure: Add a rustic touch by sewing a few large wooden buttons along the collar line. You can use the natural spaces in the stitch pattern as buttonholes!
• Colour ideas: Soft pastels like lavender or mint for spring, rich jewel tones like emerald or burgundy for autumn, or classic neutrals like cream and charcoal for year-round wear.
• Yarn substitutions: Any light worsted weight (size 4) yarn with good drape will work beautifully. Excellent alternatives include Lion Brand Jeans, Caron Simply Soft, or Stylecraft Special DK (if you can achieve gauge).

Common Troubleshooting & Fixes

• Problem: The starting chain is too tight, causing the bottom edge of the cardigan to pull and curve upward.
  Fix: This is a very common issue! To prevent this, try using a hook that is one size larger just for your starting chain, then switch back to the recommended hook for Row 1. You can also check out our guide on How to Adjust Your Foundation Chain for more tips.
• Problem: The armholes feel too snug or restrict movement.
  Fix: We all have different body shapes! If you need a bit more room, simply add a few extra chains to your armhole chain loop (and skip the corresponding number of stitches). Just make sure to adjust your sleeve stitch count accordingly when you work Round 1 of the sleeves.
• Problem: The collar edge is curling or looks wavy.
  Fix: This usually happens if your tension is too tight on the leveling rows or if you worked too many stitches into the border. Ensure you keep your stitches relaxed, and block your finished cardigan to help the collar lay flat.
• Problem: The sleeves are turning out too long or too short.
  Fix: Because this pattern is worked from the armhole down, you can easily customize the length. Simply try on the cardigan as you go and add or subtract double crochet rounds before starting the bell portion.

Care Instructions

To keep your handmade cardigan looking its absolute best, I highly recommend hand washing it in cool water with a gentle wool wash. Lay it flat on a clean towel to dry. Avoid hanging your cardigan to dry, as the weight of the wet fabric can stretch out the shoulders and ruin the beautiful drape.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the feeling of wearing a garment you made with your own two hands. The Sloane Cardigan is the perfect blend of simple construction and elegant style, making it a project you will cherish making and wearing. I hope this pattern brings a touch of handmade joy to your wardrobe! Happy crocheting, my friends!