How to crochet a double breasted coat / cardigan for girls

Absolutely! Let’s go step by step. I’ll provide a detailed guide on how to crochet a double-breasted coat or cardigan for girls, covering materials, techniques, and step-by-step instructions. I’ll also include tips for sizing, stitch patterns, and finishing touches.

Materials Needed

1. Yarn: Medium-weight (worsted) yarn or DK (light worsted) for a softer, lighter coat. Choose a washable yarn for durability.

2. Crochet Hook: Use a hook size recommended for your yarn (usually 4–5 mm for worsted).

3. Buttons: 4–6 buttons depending on size.

4. Measuring Tape: For accurate sizing.

5. Tapestry Needle: For sewing seams and weaving in ends.

6. Scissors

Sizing Guide

For girls’ sizes, approximate chest circumference:

Tip: Always make a gauge swatch to ensure your stitches match the desired size.

Basic Stitches Used

• ch: chain

• sc: single crochet

• dc: double crochet

• hdc: half double crochet

• sl st: slip stitch

• dec: decrease (for shaping)

Step 1: Back Panel

1. Foundation chain: Chain the width needed for the back (ch = chest circumference ÷ 2, plus 2 for ease).
   Example: For a 56 cm chest, your chain might be around 60–62 stitches depending on gauge.

2. Row 1: DC in the 3rd chain from hook and across. Turn.

3. Row 2 onwards: DC in each stitch across. Continue until you reach desired length (usually shoulder to waist/back length).

Optional: Add texture with hdc, shell stitches, or cables for a decorative look.

Step 2: Front Panels

For a double-breasted look, you need two front panels that overlap.

1. Foundation chain: About half the width of the back plus extra for overlap.

2. Rows: Work in the same stitch as back.

3. Shaping: Decrease near the neckline gradually for a curved opening.

4. Button Bands: Add a few rows of sc along the edge for a neat finish where buttons will be sewn.

Step 3: Sleeves

1. Foundation chain: Width = arm circumference × 0.8 (slightly snug).

2. Rows: Work dc or hdc until sleeve length is achieved.

3. Shaping: Gradually decrease stitches towards the wrist if desired.

Tip: You can make bell-shaped or straight sleeves depending on style.

Step 4: Assembly

1. Block all pieces to shape.

2. Sew shoulder seams using tapestry needle and whip stitch or mattress stitch.

3. Attach sleeves to armholes.

4. Sew side seams and underarm seams.

Step 5: Button Placement

1. Decide how far you want the coat to overlap (usually 3–5 cm).

2. Sew buttons on the right panel (for double-breasted style).

3. Create buttonholes or simply use loops on the left panel.

4. Typically, double-breasted coats have two columns of buttons, evenly spaced.

Step 6: Finishing

1. Weave in all loose ends.

2. Add optional edging: sc or shell stitch along the hem, cuffs, and neckline for a polished look.

3. Steam/block lightly to even stitches.

Tips for Style & Fit

• Use soft, washable yarns for children.

• Add a hood for extra warmth.

• Experiment with color blocking: different colors for sleeves or edging.

• For a fancier look, use textured stitches like cables or puff stitches on the front panels.

If you want, I can create a full stitch-by-stitch pattern with exact stitch counts for each size so you can start crocheting right away. It’ll be like a mini crochet blueprint for a girls’ double-breasted coat.

Do you want me to do that?

Watch tutorial: