The Seafoam Ripple Cardigan: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Flowing, Ruffled Layering Piece
Introducing the Seafoam Ripple Cardigan
Drape yourself in the gentle rhythm of the ocean with this uniquely textured, asymmetrical cardigan. The Seafoam Ripple Cardigan features a mesmerizing wave stitch pattern and a single, dramatic ruffled edge that cascades from the shoulder, creating a piece that is both elegant and effortlessly cozy. Made with a lightweight cotton-bamboo blend, this cardigan is perfect for layering over summer dresses or adding a touch of coastal charm to any outfit. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or a confident beginner, this pattern will guide you through creating a stunning, one-of-a-kind garment.
Materials Needed
To create your own Seafoam Ripple Cardigan, gather the following materials:
- Yarn: Lion Brand Coboo (a cotton/bamboo blend, DK weight, category 3) in 3 colors:
- Color A (Seafoam): 3 (3, 4, 4) skeins
- Color B (Coral): 1 (1, 2, 2) skeins
- Color C (White): 1 (1, 1, 1) skein
- Hook: Size G (4.0 mm) crochet hook, or size needed to obtain gauge
- Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle for weaving in ends
Gauge & Sizing
Gauge: 16 stitches and 8 rows in wave stitch pattern = 4 inches (10 cm). Gauge is critical for fit, so please make a gauge swatch before beginning.
Sizes: S (M, L, XL) – Finished bust: 36 (40, 44, 48) inches.
Stitch Abbreviations (US terms)
- ch: chain
- sc: single crochet
- dc: double crochet
- sl st: slip stitch
- st(s): stitch(es)
- sk: skip
- rep: repeat
Special Stitch: Wave Stitch (WS)
Worked over a multiple of 10 + 1 stitches. This 4-row repeat creates the beautiful ripple effect.
- Row 1 (RS): With Color A, ch 1, sc in first st, *sc in next 4 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts, sk next st; rep from * to last 10 sts, sc in next 4 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts, turn. (Multiple of 10 + 1 sts)
- Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first st, *sc in next 4 sts, sk next 2 sts, sc in next 4 sts, 3 sc in next st; rep from * to last 10 sts, sc in next 4 sts, sk next 2 sts, sc in next 4 sts, turn.
- Row 3: Ch 1, sc in first st, *sc in next 4 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts, sk next st; rep from * to last 10 sts, sc in next 4 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts, turn.
- Row 4: Ch 1, sc in first st, *sc in next 4 sts, sk next 2 sts, sc in next 4 sts, 3 sc in next st; rep from * to last 10 sts, sc in next 4 sts, sk next 2 sts, sc in next 4 sts, turn.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Back Yoke
With Color A, ch 41 (51, 61, 71).
- Row 1 (RS): Work Row 1 of Wave Stitch across. (41, 51, 61, 71 sts)
- Rows 2-4: Work Rows 2-4 of Wave Stitch.
- Repeat Rows 1-4 until piece measures 8 (9, 10, 11) inches from beginning, ending with a WS row. Fasten off Color A.
Left Front Yoke
With Color A, ch 21 (26, 31, 36).
- Work Wave Stitch pattern as for back, but only for 8 (9, 10, 11) inches. Fasten off.
Right Front Yoke
Work same as Left Front Yoke.
Join Yoke
With RS facing, attach Color A to the top right corner of the Right Front Yoke. Ch 1, sc evenly across top edge of Right Front, then across top edge of Back, then across top edge of Left Front. Do not turn. This will be the neckline edge. Fasten off.
Body
With RS facing, attach Color A to the bottom edge of the Right Front Yoke. Ch 1, sc evenly across bottom edge of Right Front, Back, and Left Front. You will have a total of 83 (103, 123, 143) sts. Turn.
- Work Wave Stitch pattern across all sts for 10 (12, 14, 16) inches, or desired length to underarm. Fasten off.
Sleeves (make 2)
With Color A, ch 31 (31, 41, 41).
- Work Wave Stitch pattern for 12 (14, 16, 18) inches, or desired sleeve length. Fasten off.
Ruffled Edge
This is worked along the front opening and bottom hem of the cardigan.
With RS facing, attach Color B (Coral) to the bottom right corner of the cardigan. Ch 1, work 3 sc in each stitch along the entire front opening and bottom hem. At corners, work 5 sc in corner stitch. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off.
Finishing
- Sew shoulder seams of yoke together.
- Sew sleeves into armholes, matching center of sleeve top to shoulder seam.
- Sew sleeve and side seams.
- Weave in all ends.
- Optional: Add a single button at the top of the yoke for closure, or leave open.
Your Seafoam Ripple Cardigan is now complete! Enjoy the soft, flowing drape and the beautiful wave stitch pattern that makes this piece truly special. Perfect for layering, this cardigan will become a cherished addition to your wardrobe.
