How to Crochet a Sweater
Let this article teach you How to Crochet a Sweater. Then you'll be able to create tons of great crochet projects.
Now there are many ways to crochet a sweater. There are those made in pieces to be sewn together, Sweaters made in one piece that are folded and sewn at the seams, as well as circular sweaters that minus under the arms have no seams at all. For some one just starting out, I would suggest a simple pattern such as Lion brand's squares sweater. A link to pattern will be included at bottom of page. This pattern is very easy to make as well as easy to vary. Any stitch can be worked to fit this pattern that can also be adjusted to fit any person. The pattern given is for infant and toddler but I have made them to fit up to a gentlemen's extra large. It is simple. Measure the back of the intended person from side to side. Figure out how many stitches to an inch and then adjust pattern to fit. The pictures for this pattern use bold primary colors but they can be made all in one color or stripes what every you like. Simple edging can be added to add a little fancy flare, or embroidered patches and buttons can be added to for character.
Beginners may like to start out with a granny square pattern for sweaters as well. Again easy to make and to adjust to personal tastes these sweaters are good for those who are looking to have a take along project as granny squares are small and easy to carry around. These sweaters are also good for those looking to use up all the little left overs from other projects. I have selected two patterns and posted the links to these below as well. The first is an easy pattern for an infant sweater that again can be adjusted to fit a larger body. The second is a bit harder but a favorite pattern. Squares made with yellow and two shades of orange finished in black give that sweater a bold look while softer shades of brown are appealing as well.
That said, colors are a very important part of sweater making. Not only do you want to chose colors the person likes but you want them to look good together. If you find yourself staring at a wall of yarn daunted by the choices, try taking an example from nature. Pick a season and then something from that season, certain flowers or autumn leaves for example. Tulips that have peach fading up through pale yellow to white with streaks of green give you a list of colors that will look nice together. As for autumn leaves find gold and pumpkin, along with a sage and chocolate colored yarns. If nature fails to inspire try thinking of your favorite room. What are the colors of that room? There you go. If after that you are still just not jelling a color scheme pick up a multi-colored variegated yarn. Since companies make them with colors that look good together, even if you do not like the look of variegated you can use the color combos. Most companies make solids that match to work specifically with their variegated yarns.
Just as important is the yarn chosen. Our modern world has brought with it an amazing array of yarns. The styles, vary as much as their uses. Fibers from all over the world are used to make the yarns as well as being able to purchase home spun or even yarn made from the hair of your dog. For the first sweater though I would suggest either a 4 or 5 ply yarn with out all the bumps, frizz, fluff or sparkle. Yes larger yarns will work up faster but specialty yarns can be hard to work with and should be saved for later works.
Sweaters seem like a tough project to do but with a simple pattern, the right yarn in the right color or colors, they are nothing to fear. Sweaters made at home tend to be warmer for the wearer as well, not to mention hand made gifts are something very special. So happy crocheting!
Wanna try your hand at making a crochet sweater? Here are some easy crochet sweater patterns to try: Casual Chunky Sweatshirt, Easy Pullover Sweater, and Cool Summer Hoodie.
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TopazRiver
Sep 04, 2012
I'm making my very first pullover and this article has wetted my appetite and got the little grey cells working as to what colour and yarn I may choose for my next project :)
Denna Weber
Jan 22, 2012
Wow. Thought you'd be giving tips on simple measuring, simple construction, etc. and then move on to a simple sweater pattern--none of which was ever done.
JennyBee1
Aug 24, 2011
@Coolfire, This is an article with some helpful tips on how to crochet a sweater, not an actual crochet pattern. Please be sure to check out our crochet sweater patterns here: http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Sweaters Thanks! --editor of FaveCrafts
Coolfire
Aug 24, 2011
A link to pattern will be included at bottom of page. This pattern is very easy to make as well as easy to vary. Wish I had known before I got all excited about this easy sweater that there really wasn't a link at all!
CreativityGoddess
May 09, 2011
@cjones60 - Thanks for the helpful tips! -The Editors of FaveCrafts
cjones60
May 09, 2011
go to the lion brand website and on the left click on link for crochet patterns and type in "squares", it will take you to the link. You will have to have an account or create and account, but it's free and there are some good patterns. http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/ccusa-squares.html?noImages=
Ninna
Apr 01, 2011
Interesting article and I would have been interested in the pattern but there is no link or pictures.
Julia L
Mar 31, 2011
Hi mciloff, We do not have this pattern - but we do have other great patterns! This is just an article we wanted to share.
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