June 3, 2025

Adorable Leo Snowdrop Baby Cardigan

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to make the Adorable Leo Snowdrop Baby Cardigan, a beginner-friendly crochet project perfect for little ones. This pattern features a simple, stylish design and is created in one piece from the bottom up with minimal seaming.


  • Yarn: Bulky weight yarn (e.g., Katia Alaska, King Cole Comfort Chunky, or Bernat Softee Chunky)
    • Approx. 400–800 yards, depending on size
  • Hook: 6 mm (US J-10) crochet hook
  • Notions:
    • Yarn needle
    • Scissors
    • Stitch markers
    • 1 button (about 2.5 cm diameter)

The cardigan can be made in sizes for 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 years. Below is an example for the 2-year size (others scale similarly):

  • Foundation Chain: 72 stitches
  • Total Rows Before Splitting for Sleeves: 26

Step 1: Create the Base

  1. Foundation Row:
    • Chain 72 (or as per the size).
    • Turn and work 1 row of single crochet (sc) into each chain.
  2. Body Rows:
    • Work in single crochet rows until you reach the row count needed for your chosen size.
    • For 2 years: 26 rows in total.

Step 2: Split for Sleeves

After reaching the armhole depth (e.g., 26 rows for 2 years):

  1. Divide into Three Parts:
    • Left Front Panel
    • Back Panel
    • Right Front Panel
  2. Work Each Panel Separately:
    • Continue in rows for each panel, maintaining the stitch count provided in the pattern (e.g., 18 sts for left/right front and 36 for back on 2-year size).

Step 3: Join Shoulder Seams

  1. Use Yarn Needle or Crochet Slip Stitch:
    • Seam the shoulders together.
    • Leave armholes open.

Step 4: Make and Attach Sleeves

  1. Chain for Sleeve Base:
    • For 2-year size: chain 24.
    • Work single crochet rows, increasing as instructed.
  2. Shape Sleeve Cap:
    • After reaching the desired length, decrease stitches to taper the top.
  3. Sew Sleeves:
    • Match the sleeve cap to the armhole and sew using yarn needle.

Step 5: Add Collar and Button

  1. Collar:
    • Attach yarn at neckline and work single crochet rows to desired height.
    • Fold down for a neat collar look.
  2. Buttonhole (Right Front):
    • Create space for 1 button by chaining 1 and skipping 1 stitch.
  3. Sew Button:
    • On opposite side, attach a 2.5 cm button using yarn and needle.

  • Weave in all loose ends.
  • Block the cardigan lightly with steam or water for a professional finish.

You can also make a simple matching hat with the same yarn and stitches. It’s often worked in the round from the crown down or from the brim up.


  • Change colors for stripes or contrasting sleeves
  • Add decorative edging or bobbles
  • Use wooden or themed buttons for extra charm

If you’d like, I can also provide a crochet chart or printable pattern layout for ease of use. Would you like that?

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