Hexagon cardigans are a hit right now, and they are versatile and easy to crochet and customize. With this free pattern, you will be instructed to make a solid crochet hexagon cardigan in 3 adult sizes. And, if you like using a base pattern to add your personal touches, you will also have plenty of instructions and ideas.
This hexagon technique is great because it gives you multiple opportunities to work with different colors and customizations. Additionally, it’s also a unique pattern created with the crochet moss stitch (linen stitch) instead of the usual granny and double crochet stitches.
Additionally, you will have instructions to make it with cotton yarn, which makes it great for warmer seasons. Check all the notes, photos, and schematics to make the most of this super-detailed pattern.
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Table of Contents
These links offer inexpensive and ad-free PDF file downloads. There are three purchase options: one file for 9 Adult sizes (XS to 5XL), one file for 8 Kids / Youth sizes (2 to 16), or a discounted bundle with both files.
Is this Crochet Hexagon Cardigan for beginners?
Yes, this cardigan is easy to crochet. If you know how to chain and single crochet, this pattern will certainly be doable for you. The pattern is packed with step-by-step photos and diagrams.
Since this is a garment pattern, you must also be comfortable with the basics of garment making. You will need to know how to hand sew and weave in ends and the basics of pattern and sizing terms and color change.
Materials
Here is a list of what you need to make this crochet hexagon cardigan.
- You will need worsted weight (#4) yarn.
- A 5 mm (US H) hook, or other size needed to meet gauge.
- It’s optional, but it will be helpful to have 6 stitch markers (contrasting color yarn scrap will work as well).
- A tapestry needle to sew and weave in the ends.
- A pair of scissors.
- A measuring tape.
Best yarn for a crochet hexagon cardigan
The best option for a lightweight summer cardigan is cotton yarn. I used 24 / 7 yarn, which is a medium-weight, 100% mercerized cotton by Lion Brand.
However, the warmer fibers will probably work best if you’re making it for the colder seasons. As long as you are comfortable with making adjustments, you may be able to use any other yarn thickness as well.
Amount of yarn needed
Considering you’re using the recommended yarn in this pattern and if you meet gauge, here is the approximate amount you will need:
| Size (Adult) | Small | Medium | Large |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amount | 22 oz (624 g) | 23.5 oz (666 g) | 26 oz (737 g) |
| Yards / Meters | 1170 yds (1070 m) | 1250 yds (1143 m) | 1382 yds (1264 m) |
Aqua (C1) and Lemon (C2) were the yarn colors used. And remember, if you need to add extra rows to make your cardigan longer, you will need to plan for more yarn.
How do you crochet a hexagon cardigan?
A crochet hexagon cardigan is made from two identical hexagons crocheted in rounds from the center outwards. Here is how it works:
- First, you will crochet the core hexagons on the round from the center outwards. Keep the right side facing you as you go, and join each round with a slip stitch in one of the corners.
- Second, sew the top of the shoulders and the center back seam. I recommend sewing it with a tapestry needle using the ladder stitch, but you can attach it with the crochet hook using a row of slip stitches if you prefer.
- Next, you will sew the center back seam to attach both hexagons together.
- Lastly, when you assemble the cardigan, you may crochet more rows to add length to the bottom and sleeves (see the customization section for more ideas).
Avoiding too large armholes and chest width
As you crochet the core hexagons, the armholes and chest width will become larger. To avoid making them too wide, we will crochet the core hexagons with complete rounds to a certain point.
Then, we will add back-and-forth rows (turning) on the sides of the hexagons that belong to the center back seam only. We will also add rows to the front and bottom of the crochet hexagon cardigan.
Adapt this pattern to other sizes
The pattern includes all the numbers (3 Adult sizes) to make the crochet hexagon cardigan pictured here. However, it’s easy to customize if you feel comfortable doing so. Remember that you may have to deal with more ends to weave in, but it’s possible.
One way to adjust the sizes is to add back-and-forth rows to each side of the hexagon individually. The best way to figure this out is to identify what each side of the hexagons will be.
Here is a schematic of the crochet hexagon showing what each side is:
Other customization ideas
- First, you will crochet the core hexagons with as many whole rounds as needed to achieve the armhole depth, including positive ease.
- Next, you will crochet back-and-forth rows on the sides of the hexagon that belong to the back and the front to add width to the chest.
- Additionally, you can tweak it by adding rows for chest width and body and sleeve length. You can make adjustments by adding rows to each side of the hexagons.
Note: This section is intended for ideas and suggestions only. I haven’t tried to recreate this crochet hexagon cardigan with all these modifications, so I can’t guarantee it will work. You will have to do the modifications on your own if you decide to try them.
Adding rows for body length
After you assemble the two hexagons, attach the yarn and add extra rows of stitches to the bottom to make it longer.
But remember, the larger the size, the longer your cardigan will be. If you follow the pattern as is, the larger cardigan (L) will be approximately 20″ (51 cm) long.
Crochet hexagon cardigan chest size
Consider making one size smaller if you would rather wear it with a tighter fit around your chest. It’s easier to just add rows to the length afterwards if you need to.
However, you can measure your chest and subtract rows from the sides of the hexagon that belong to the center back seam and the front.
Sleeve length and cuff variations
Check size chart for sleeve length before you proceed to these changes. This one may be a little trickier. But if you want shorter sleeves, stop adding rounds to the side of the hexagon that belongs to the sleeve once you reach the length you want.
However, if you want the sleeves longer, attach the yarn to the edge of the cuff after you assemble the cardigan and add extra rounds of stitches.
Would you rather have a tighter cuff? Consider adding a few rounds of a ribbing stitch or just plain single crochet stitches with some decreases.
Pattern notes
- The crochet hexagon cardigan pattern was written using standard US terminology.
- No buttons are needed, as this is intended to be an over layer piece, to wear with a tank top underneath. But if you would rather add buttons, you can do so.
- Use stitch markers to mark the chain 1 space in each of the 6 corners of the hexagon, moving them up as you go.
- The pattern contains instructions for 3 Adult sizes and was written in this format and sequence: S (M, L).
- When/if only one number is given, it applies to all sizes. When a number is repeated, it means the same number applies to multiple sizes.
- To make it easier for you to follow the pattern, I recommend that you print it and use a pen to circle/highlight the numbers pertaining to your size before you start.
- For reference, the pictured model is wearing size S and has chest circumference of 34” (86 cm).
Measurements and sizing
This crochet hexagon cardigan was designed with a relaxed fit, which means if you meet gauge your finished garment will have a positive ease of approximately 2-3″ (5-8 cm) around chest. And 1-2″ (2.5-5 cm) of positive ease on armhole depth.
Here are the approximate sizes available:
| Sizes | Small | Medium | Large |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fits Chest (A) | 34″ (86 cm) | 38″ (97 cm) | 42″ (107 cm) |
| Fits Armhole Depth (B) | 7″ (18 cm) | 7.5″ (19 cm) | 8″ (20 cm) |
| Finished Body Length (C) | 17″ (43 cm) | 18″ (46 cm) | 20″ (51 cm) |
| Finished Sleeve Length (D) | 8″ (20 cm) | 8.6″ (22 cm) | 9″ (23 cm) |
Length of the crochet hexagon cardigan informed above is before you add extra rows. You can make it longer by adding more rows.
I’ve used The Craft Yarn Council’s Standard Body Measurement/Sizing resources as reference to create this pattern.
Skills
The pattern for this crochet hexagon cardigan is suited for crocheters with intermediate level of skills. But a brave beginner who is comfortable with the below stitches and techniques will probably be able to make it.
- Linen (Moss) stitch (chain, single crochet). Here is a tutorial for the moss stitch.
- Fasten-Off and weave in the ends.
- Yarn color change.
- Hand sewing with the ladder stitch.
- And you need to know how to read patterns for garments.
Abbreviations and stitches
- C1: Color 1
- C2: Color 2
- ch (chs): chain (chains)
- FO: fasten off
- mc: magic circle
- sc: single crochet
- sk: skip
- sp: space
- sl st: slip stitch
- yo: yarn over
- *: repeat/work instructions after asterisk as indicated in the pattern
- ( ): repeat instructions with parenthesis as indicated
Gauge
Each side of the hexagon crocheted with 9 rounds will measure approximately 3.5” (9.53 cm). And 5.75” (15.2 cm) in diameter, from one corner to the other corner, right across (before washing).
What else to consider about gauge?
- If you are experienced enough to adjust the size with a different number of rounds or with a different yarn thickness, you may not need to meet gauge.
- Otherwise, gauge will be crucial for the success of your finished cardigan. So, please make sure you do not skip the swatch.
- Use the hexagon pattern below to crochet a 9-round gauge swatch before you go further. If you get a too big swatch, switch to a smaller hook, or vice versa.
Purchase the inexpensive and ad free PDF files downloads in these links. You will have 3 purchase options: 1 file for 9 Adult sizes (XS to 5XL), 1 file for 8 Kids / Youth sizes (2 to 16) or you can purchase a discounted bundle with both files.
Crochet Hexagon Cardigan Instructions
Are you excited to make your crochet hexagon cardigan? Please make sure you have read through the pattern notes and instructions and through the gauge section before you start.
Make two identical hexagons until you have instructions to stop and proceed to the assembling steps.
Total Time: 12 hours
Step #1: Round 1
in a mc, ch 2, (sc, ch 1) 5 times, sc, join to the first ch 2 sp with a sl st.
Alternatively, instead of the mc, you can start with 3 chains. Then, crochet row 1 into the third chain from the hook.
Alternatively, instead of the magic circle, you can start with 3 chains. Then, crochet row 1 into the third chain from the hook.
Step #2: Round 2
Ch 2, sc in the same ch sp as ch 2, *ch 1, (sc, ch 1, sc) in next ch 1 sp, rep from the * 4 more times, ch 1, sc in the first ch sp to complete the first corner of the square. Sl st to initial chain 2 to join.
Step #3: Round 3-40 (43, 46)
Ch 2, sc in same ch sp as ch 2, *ch 1, sc in next ch 1 sp to next corner, (sc, ch 1, sc) in next corner, rep from the * 4 more times, (ch 1, sc in next ch 1 sp) until you have one sc left, ch 1, sc in first corner where the initial ch 2 is, join to initial ch 2 with a sl st.
Do not cut the yarn yet. Next, you are going to crochet rows only up to half the way (to the 4th corner of the hexagon, counting from the one you start the row). Then, you will turn and keep doing back and forth rows.
Step #4: Fold to see the cardigan forming
To make it easier to understand this next step, pinch the corner you just finished your last stitch, with the other corner right across (right side out).
Then, keep the folded piece in front of you as an upside down “L”. The folded end of the “L” facing the right is going to be the sleeve.
You will now add rows to the sides of the hexagon that belong to the front, bottom, and center back (corners 1 to 4 in photo above).
Step #5: Crochet Hexagon Cardigan Color Change
Additionally, in this step, starting in next row, is where you will be doing some color work if you like. You will change yarn colors in every two rows for the next 6 rows.
You don’t have to cut the yarn, just drop it, and pick it back when it’s time to change it again.
Row 41, (44, 47): ch 2, sc in same ch sp as ch 2, *ch 1, sc in next ch 1 sp to next corner, (sc, ch 1, sc) in next corner, rep from the * 2 more times, finish row with one sc only in 4th corner of the hexagon, turn.
Row 42-46 (45-49, 48-52): chain 2, * sc in next ch 1 sp, ch 1 to next corner, (sc, ch 1, sc) in next corner, rep from the * 2 more times, finish row with one sc only in 4th corner of the hexagon, turn.
FO. Cut the yarns and leave a long tail of the main color (C1) to sew the shoulder. If you are doing the seam with a row of sl st you don’t have to cut it.
If you think you need extra rows to add inches around the chest and to body length, now is the perfect time. Just follow instructions above. However, if you need to add extra rows to the body length only, it will be easier to do it after assembling.
When you’re done with the first hexagon, stop here and make the second one before you proceed to next steps.
Step #6: Make the shoulder seam
Sew the shoulders, one at a time. Thread a tapestry needle with the long tail left and sew it with the ladder stitch.
Or you can do a row of sl st with the hook, on the wrong side to do the shoulder seam. The first one is my preferred method because it creates a less bulky seam.
Here is how you do the ladder stitch: keep the fabric right side out, then insert the needle in blo of the edge sts. One st at a time in one edge, then the next corresponding st in the opposite edge.
FO. Cut the yarn.
Step #7: Crochet Hexagon Cardigan back seam
Next, thread the tapestry needle with a strand of matching color yarn and do the center back seam. You will join both edges at the back, bottom up, using the same method you used for the shoulders.
Here, you won’t sew all the way up, leave approximately 5” (5”, 6”) without sewing, for the neck opening.
Step #8: Add extra rounds to the sleeves (optional)
Unless you prefer keeping your sleeves shorter, I highly recommend that you add more rows, especially if you are doing color-work. I love how mine turned out.
Start by attaching the yarn to any ch 1 sp on the cuff. Then, crochet 6 extra rows, or as many as you want. And you can do color change here as well.
Round 1-6: Ch 2, *sk next sc st, sc in next ch 1 sp, ch 1, repeat from the * across, sc in same ch sp as initial ch 2, sl st to initial ch 2 to join.
Step #9: Extra extra rows for body length (optional)
Now, it’s a good time to add extra rows to the bottom to add length to the crochet hexagon cardigan. Attach the yarn to one of the ch 1 sp corners in the front, right side out.
Row 1-4 (or as many as you need, if you want it longer): Ch 2, *sc in nex ch 1 sp, chain 1, rep from the * across the bottom, chain 2, sc in last ch 1 sp, turn.
Note: For the pictured sample of the crochet hexagon cardigan, I made 7 extra rows. I did the 7th and last row all around the edges of the cardigan, going around the neck opening at the back.
And the reason why I added that extra row was because I wanted a nice and clean finish in the front corners. FO. Weave in all the ends.
Estimated Cost: 30.00 USD
Supply:
- Medium weight yarn (#4)
Tools:
- 5 mm (US H) hook or the size needed to meet gauge
Materials: 6 stitch markers, Tapestry Needle, Scissors, Measuring tape
Conclusion
Whether you have followed this crochet hexagon cardigan pattern as is or found inspiration to customize it your way, I hope you loved making it.
Hexagon cardigans are fun to make because they are usually easy, quick, and customizable. I can’t wait to see what you make.
Drop a comment below if you have any questions or if you just would like to say “hi”. Another way to reach out to me is by joining my community group on Facebook.
If you use any of my patterns or tutorials for a project, please tag me @zamiguz or use the hashtag #zamiguzmakers. I would love to see what you make.
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