by Aptly named for its soft texture and fluffy appearance, the Marshmallow Baby Cardigan Sweater is a delightful crochet project that makes a wonderful gift for a newborn or toddler. With its pillow stitches and snuggly fit, this cardigan is both practical and adorable — perfect for chilly mornings or cozy afternoons.
- Soft and cuddly texture like a marshmallow
- Beginner-friendly construction
- Customizable sizes and colors
- Great gift for baby showers, birthdays, or handmade keepsakes
- Chunky or baby chenille yarn (or a soft velvet yarn in pastel shades)
- Crochet hook: 6.0 mm (J) or size appropriate for your yarn
- Stitch markers
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Buttons (3–5, depending on size)
- Scissors
- CH – Chain
- SC – Single Crochet
- DC – Double Crochet
- HDC – Half Double Crochet
- SL ST – Slip Stitch
- INC – Increase (two stitches in one stitch)
The Marshmallow Baby Cardigan is worked top-down in one piece, making it seamless and easy to adjust in size. The fluffy yarn hides imperfections, making it perfect for beginners.
1. Yoke (Neckline to Armholes)
- CH 48 (or adjust based on size).
- Work HDC across in rows, increasing at the corners to shape the yoke (raglan style).
- Continue increasing until the yoke comfortably fits around baby’s chest and shoulders.
2. Divide for Sleeves
- Skip stitches for armholes, connecting the front and back panels by chaining across the gaps.
- Work HDC across the body section only.
3. Body of the Cardigan
- Continue working rows of HDC until you reach the desired length (typically waist to hip).
- Optional: Add a ribbed border using front post/back post DC.
4. Sleeves
- Attach yarn to the armhole and work in rounds.
- Use HDC or DC to keep the marshmallow texture uniform.
- Decrease slightly at the wrist for a cuffed look.
5. Finishing Details
- Add a simple button band by SC evenly up one side, across the neckline, and down the other.
- Sew on buttons and create loops or buttonholes.
- Classic white or cream: marshmallow look and feel
- Pastels: pink, mint, baby blue, or lavender
- Striped version: alternate soft colors for a playful effect
- Add a crochet flower or pompom on the chest or cuff for extra charm
- Hand wash or machine wash on gentle cycle
- Lay flat to dry
- Avoid hot water or heat drying (especially with plush yarns)
The Marshmallow Baby Cardigan Sweater is as delightful to make as it is to gift. With its soft feel, cozy warmth, and sweet design, it’s a perfect beginner-friendly project that looks impressively polished. Whether you’re making it for your own little one or as a heartfelt gift, this cardigan will surely become a cherished piece.
Video tutorial:
Wrap your baby in softness and love – one stitch at a time!
