Vintage Crochet Heart Stitch Cardigan Free Pattern

This vintage-inspired crochet cardigan pattern showcases a beautifully textured heart-and-double-crochet design that adds charm to any wardrobe. Its free-hand structure allows simple size customization, making it ideal for all body measurements.

Crochet Heart Stitch Cardigan

The cardigan features front and back panels, a flattering V-neck, a unique V-stitch collar, and scalloped edging for a polished finish. Whether styled casually or layered for warmth, this handmade cardigan lets you enjoy comfort, creativity, and personal expression. Perfect for crafters who love flexible garment construction with elegant detail.

Materials

• 4.5 mm hook for main body
• 4 mm hook for collar
• Acrylic yarn

Foundation

• Make a starting chain one inch less than your desired chest width
• Example: 66 chains for approx. 18 in width

Back and Front Panels Main Stitch

• Work 5 DC
• Ch 1 and skip 1
• Make heart stitch in next stitch
• Ch 1
• Make second puff in same stitch
• Ch 1 and skip 1
• Repeat 5 DC and heart stitch pattern across

Row 1

• Skip two chains and make DC in third chain
• Work 3 DC
• Ch 1 and skip 1
• Make heart stitch
• Ch 1
• Make second puff in same stitch
• Ch 1 and skip 1
• Work 5 DC
• Repeat sequence
• End with DC in last chain

Row 2

• Ch 3 and turn
• Make heart stitch in center space of previous heart
• Ch 1
• Make 1 DC in each of next 5 DC
• Ch 1 and repeat pattern across

Continue Panel

• Repeat Row 2 until desired length

Front Panels

• Divide initial chain number in half
• Work identical stitch pattern for each panel

V Neck

• Begin decreases when panel is 7 in from top
• Decrease neckline edge by combining last two stitches each row
• Continue until V shape is formed

Collar

• Attach thinner yarn with 4 mm hook at neckline
• Work SC around neckline
• Ch 2
• Skip one stitch and work V stitch into next stitch
• Continue V stitches to end

Collar Increase

• At row start work extra V stitch
• At end work extra DC
• Repeat V stitches across
• Continue 4–5 rows

Sleeves

• Work main stitch pattern
• Attach sleeves
• Add V stitch cuff

Assembly

• Seam front, back, and sleeves together

Edging

• Add scallop edging along front opening
• Create buttonholes