Crochet One Piece Sweater and Expand Your Skills - Marly Bird's Aurora Lace Crochet Cardigan Pattern + Video Tutorial Awaits! (2024)

Table of Contents

Get the full PDF with links to full color PDF stitch diagrams for each size of the pattern. Click the button below to get purchase the pattern.

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Visual Aids to Assist in Piece Construction

Visual aids play an indispensable role in demystifying the one-piece construction technique for the Aurora Lace Crochet Cardigan. The 26 page pattern is more than just the written instructions, it offers detailed charts and diagrams, these resources become an invaluable guide for crocheters, helping them visualize the layout and progression of their project with clarity and precision.

Video tutorials with clear step-by-step demonstrations further help the crocheter understand the one piece construction. As visual learners themselves, Marly and Robyn always make sure they give as many visual guidance tools possible to ensure that even those new to any concept, but especially of one-piece crochet can tackle the project with confidence.

Here is the stitch diagram for the Aurora Lace crochet stitch pattern. This chart is used in the video tutorial as well. The full stitch diagrams for each size is only available in the pattern.

Size Matters and this Pattern is Size Inclusive

Since the beginning of their design careers, Marly and Robyn have designed for multiple sizes and always pushed for more size inclusivity in the yarn fashion industry. Being able to search a site like Ravelry and see a sweater pattern not only available in a larger size (bigger than a 49 inch bust) but to see it also shown on a larger model is so important; and that was not something they saw very much of more than 20 years ago. For them, it is important to design garments for everybody but especially ones they themselves can wear. For that reason, you will find many (if not all) of their designs are sized up to a three extra large; and many of their newer patterns are sized up to a five extra large.

The size range of this particular pattern is impressive. The entire pattern includes written instructions and the amount of added value the stitch diagrams provided for each size is immeasurable. Whether you’re looking for a size extra small to a 5XL, this pattern will work for you.

The exact Measurements of this pattern are –

To Fit Size: XS (S-L, XL/2X, 3-5X) with 4-15” [10-38 cm] of positive ease.Sample shown has 7” of positive ease.

Finished Cardigan Measurements: Sweater is 35 (46, 57.5, 69)” [89, 117, 146, 175.5 cm] bust circumference and 23 (25, 27, 29)” [58.5, 63.5, 68.5, 73.5 cm] in length.

Here is the schematic for this pattern to help you choose the correct size for you.

Does My Gauge Matter for a Crochet Sweater?

Yes, gauge does matter when you are crocheting a sweater. It is important you match the same gauge as the pattern is written. You will change your crochet hook size as necessary to get the correct sized stitches (which is called gauge) with the yarn you choose.

We did write a blog post about getting gauge if you are interested in reading it. Here is a link: https://marlybird.com/blog/how-to-calculate-crochet-gauge/ . Just remember, when you do a gauge swatch it is mandatory that you use the same hook and same yarn you plan to use for your project. Even changing the color of the yarn can alter the gauge so be aware!

The gauge for this sweater pattern is: 2 Stitch Repeats (10 dc + 4 ch-sps) by 8 Rows = 5.75” [15 cm] by 4” [10 cm]; use any size hook to obtain the gauge.

Gather Your Materials for the Aurora Lace Cardigan

Marly and Robyn wanted to keep the material list light for this crochet pattern, but they also wanted to use a semi-luxury yarn that is readily available at a very affordable price. City Tweed is one of their favorite yarns to use but this is the first time they have used the aran / heavy worsted weight version.

The blend of merino, superfine alpaca and donagal tweed make for an amazing crocheting experience. This yarn just glides on your crochet hook and the finished look is a bit rustic and super cozy.

Here are the yarn details for this pattern: WeCrochet, City Tweed Aran, (55% merino wool/ 25% superfine alpaca/ 20% donegal tweed, 164 yds / 150 m, 3.5 oz/ 100 g, CYCA #4 heavy worsted) –5 (6, 8, 10) balls. Sample color on pattern – Jacquard; sample color on Marly – Cobalt.

Best Crochet Hooks for Aurora Lace

The lace crochet in this pattern is a bit of a misnomer as it is an aran weight yarn with big lace stitches so selecting a hook that deals with intricate and small lace stitches isn’t necessary. A crochet hook with a nice point at the tip does help get into the foundation stitches but it is not a must have. Marly used a basic Susan Bates inline hook with a large ergonomic handle in the video as that is what she loves to use when she crochets. It prevents her hand from cramping.

For this pattern, the suggested crochet hook size is a J/10 or a 6mm crochet hook.

Additional Tools You’ll Need For This Pattern

As with any pattern, it take more than just yarn and hooks to make an item; a simple set of supportive tools play a role for successful completion. Thes are the tools you need to have to make this sweater –

• A tape measure – to measure your gauge in the pattern and the ribbing. This is very important for making sure that your cardigan matches the desired measurements.
• A pair of scissors – to cut the yarn. Make sure you always leave 4 – 6 inches of tail to weave in later.
• Speaking of weaving in, you need darning needle – do not just crochet over your ends or you will be very disappointed in the results after you wash and wear your garment. Weaving in ends is crucial for finishing touches.
• As always, a set of stitch markers will come in handy – use these markers to keep the edges of your sweater straight and to section off the edges for the back look single crochet ribbing that is added to the sleeve cuff, bottom hem, and the neckline collar. These Clover locking stitch markers are Marly’s favorites.
• Blocking Materials – to get the full effect of the crochet lace and to make the seaming processes easier, blocking your sweater is very important. This blog post is full of information about blocking supplies that are Marly’s favorites.
• One item that is not listed on the pattern but could be absolutely useful for those who want to have a more closed front cardigan but don’t want to plan out button holes, are these pedistal buttons by Jul.

Step-by-Step Video Instructions for Crocheting Your Cardigan

Marly Bird created a youtube video tutorial for this pattern and walks you through stitch by stitch in creating the stunning Aurora Lace Crochet Cardigan. This in-depth tutorial is perfect for crocheters ready to expand their skills and anyone longing to wrap themselves in a handcrafted layer of warmth and style.

🧶 What You’ll Learn:

• Foundation Single Crochet: Kick off your cardigan with a sturdy and stretchy base.
• Aurora Lace Stitch Pattern: Master the heart of this pattern with its captivating lace details. Learn all the crochet stitches used in this pattern so you are not crocheting without a clue.
• Sleeves: Learn to add, shape, and tailor sleeves with ease, including increasing and decreasing techniques.
• Neck Opening: Plan and execute the perfect V-neck opening that frames your face beautifully.
• Crocheting in One Piece: Simplify construction and reduce seaming as you work the entire sweater in a single piece.
• Join As You Go Ribbing: Finish with a flourish by adding ribbing that’s worked directly onto the cardigan for a polished look.

🌟 Whether you’re an adventurous beginner eager to dive into your first crochet sweater, or an experienced crocheter looking for a relaxing project with just enough challenge, this cardigan will become a cherished piece in your wardrobe.

Purchase the pattern to follow along with the video tutorial.

Crocheting the Cuffs, Hem and Collar for a Polished Look

The final step after the garment has been made, washed and blocked to the schematic measurements, and then seamed, is to add the cuff to each sleeve, add the bottom hem, and finally add the comfy rib collar around the neckline and the front of the cardigan. This task might seem daunting after all that crochet is done but it really is the final piece that gives your garment the polished look that will turn it into a masterpiece.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to make the ribbing separate and then put your sewing skills to use. No, no, no, haven’t you learned yet? These two designers like to make things fairly easy and seamless. Therefore, these ribbed pieces are worked with the join as you go technique using slip stitches into the fabric to join the ribbing.

It is quite easy and Marly does go over this in detail in the video so be sure to watch it.

Caring for Your Crochet Clothing

Taking good care of your crochet clothing is important to keep it looking great. After you’ve worn this piece, when it’s time to clean, just hand wash it gently in cool water with a mild soap. Don’t twist or wring it out; instead, press out the extra water gently. Then lay it flat on a clean towel to dry, shaping it to keep its original form. Don’t hang it up – this could stretch out the lovely lace. If you need to store it away, fold it softly and place it in a drawer or a box where it won’t get squished. By looking after it this way, your handmade sweater will stay just as pretty and comfy as the day you finished crocheting it.

Showcase Your Work: Share Your Aurora Lace Cardigan

When you finish your Aurora Lace Crochet Cardigan, we all want to see your work! Don’t hesitate to take pictures of yourself wearing your sweater out on a date, or Sunday morning to church; snap that picture and share with us on social media!

Our BiCrafty facebook community is there to show you love, support and give you a big CONGRATULATIONS 🥳 as you are working on your project or when you finish it!

Final Thoughts

Let me wrap this up like this, crocheting the Aurora Lace Crochet Cardigan is so much more than hook and yarn. It’s like you’re stitching a cozy hug. This pattern is your golden ticket to making something that’s not only a one piece construction but also a snuggly comfort sweater that’s uniquely yours. With just the right yarn and some nifty stitch skills, anyone can whip up this beauty – whether you’re just dipping your toes into the crochet waters or you’re the seasoned stitcher who’s seen it all.

And let’s not forget – when you rock your own Aurora Lace, you’re rocking a piece that’s you crocheted with your very own hands!. After you’ve rocked it a few times and it’s time for a wash, just give it some tender loving care by hand washing it gently, so it stays just as perfect as the day you finished it.

Sharing your work with the world, or even just with our tight-knit crochet crew, is the cherry on top. It’s about showing off your skills, sure, but it’s also about sparking that ‘Hey, I can make that too!’ moment in someone else.

So, there you have it! Making this cardigan is a journey full of heart, craft, and a touch of magic. Let’s get our hooks flying and our hearts singing, and make some magic with this pattern!

Happy Stitching everybody!