by Here’s a detailed guide on how to make a crochet baby vest/cardigan/jacket model, suitable for beginners to intermediate crocheters. This model is designed for a baby aged 0-6 months, but I’ll also note how to adjust the size.
How to Crochet a Baby Vest/Cardigan/Jacket (0–6 Months)
✨ Basic Information:
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Skill level: Beginner to Intermediate
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Techniques used: Chain, Double Crochet (US terms), Single Crochet, Slip Stitch
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Time required: ~4–6 hours depending on experience
Materials Needed:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Yarn | Baby-soft yarn (e.g. acrylic or cotton blend) – DK or light worsted weight |
| Hook | 4.0 mm (US G/6) crochet hook |
| Notions | Yarn needle, scissors, 2-4 buttons (optional), stitch markers |
| Gauge (optional) | 16 dc x 8 rows = 4×4 inches (10×10 cm) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
PART 1: YOKE (Top part, worked flat)
Foundation Chain:
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Chain 56 (for 0–6 months)
Row 1 (Right Side):
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Dc in 4th chain from hook and across (54 dc)
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Ch 2, turn.
Row 2:
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Dc in first 7 stitches (front panel)
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Place stitch marker.
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Dc in next 8 stitches (sleeve)
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Place marker.
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Dc in next 14 stitches (back panel)
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Place marker.
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Dc in next 8 stitches (sleeve)
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Place marker.
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Dc in last 7 stitches (front panel)
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Ch 2, turn.
Row 3 to 9 (or desired yoke height):
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Continue increasing at each stitch marker.
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At each marked stitch, make: dc, ch 1, dc (this creates raglan increases).
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Continue to ch 2 and turn at the end of each row.
You will now have a yoke shaped like a T with defined sleeve increases.
PART 2: BODY
Separate for sleeves:
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Dc across the first front panel.
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Skip all sleeve stitches and connect to the back panel with dc.
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Dc across the back.
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Skip the second sleeve and dc across the second front panel.
You can chain 3-5 stitches under each armhole when skipping the sleeves (optional for roomier fit).
Continue Body Rows:
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Dc across the body.
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Continue for 10–12 more rows, or until desired length.
You can add a decorative row using shell stitch, picot, or front/back post stitches at the bottom.
PART 3: SLEEVES
Join yarn to sleeve opening:
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Work in rounds using dc stitches around the sleeve opening.
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Make 8–10 rounds depending on desired sleeve length.
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Optional: taper sleeves by doing a decrease every 2-3 rounds near the wrist.
You can finish sleeves with a ribbed edge or shell stitch for style.
PART 4: COLLAR & BUTTON BAND
Collar:
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Attach yarn at the neckline.
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Sc evenly around the neck.
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Work 2–4 rows of sc for a simple collar, or use ribbed/fan stitch for style.
Button Band:
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Down the front edge, sc evenly along the edge.
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Work 3–5 rows.
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On one side (usually right side for girls, left for boys), make buttonholes: ch 2, skip 2 stitches where buttons go.
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On the opposite side, no holes needed.
Sew on buttons to match.
Sizing Adjustments:
| Size | Starting Chain | Yoke Rows | Body Rows |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–3 mo | 52 | 7–8 | 10 |
| 6–9 mo | 60 | 9 | 12 |
| 12 mo | 64 | 10 | 14 |
Adjust hook size and yarn weight if needed.
Finishing Touches
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Weave in all ends with yarn needle.
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Lightly block the cardigan to shape it.
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Add decorative touches like appliqués, bows, or edging if desired.
Tips
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Use stitch markers generously during the yoke phase.
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Make swatches to test your tension.
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Cotton yarn is breathable for summer; acrylic is warmer for winter.
Watch tutorial:
