Super Easy Crochet Hexagon Cardigan Pattern for Cozy Sweater Crafting

How to Crochet a Super Easy Hexy Cardigan (Step-by-Step Guide with Video)

Looking for an easy, stylish crochet cardigan you can make no matter your skill level? The Super Easy Hexi Cardigan is perfect for you. With a simple construction using two hexagons, even beginners can achieve a beautiful, cozy sweater that fits any body. This guide walks you through every step, from the magic ring to the final stitches and tips for customizing the fit, along with video support.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

To make your Hexy Cardigan, you’ll need a few key supplies:

• Chamois Chenille yarn from Secret Yarnery or any soft, thick yarn you love
• A 7mm crochet hook (or the size that matches your yarn choice)
• Stitch markers to help mark rounds and edges, particularly helpful for beginners
• Scissors for cutting yarn
• A yarn needle for weaving in ends

Chenille yarn produces a super soft, plush texture, which works great for sweaters. When handling chenille, be gentle to avoid splitting or fraying. If you’re a beginner, focus on tension – you want your stitches loose but not sloppy.

If you love cardigans and want to try more easy sweater styles, you’ll enjoy the Super Easy Hexagon Cardigan and other patterns from Secret Yarnery.

Understanding the Magic Ring: Your Crochet Starting Point

The magic ring (sometimes called the magic loop) helps create a neat, adjustable center for your hexagon. Start by draping the yarn tail over the palm of your non-dominant hand, holding it down with your thumb and ring finger. Wrap the working yarn around a couple of fingers to form an X, then place your hook under the short loop, catching the working yarn.

Turn your hook toward you to loosen the loop, then make a slip stitch through the circle. This ring can be pulled tight once you have worked the first round of stitches, closing any center gap.

If you find the magic ring tricky at first, it’s worth practicing. Once mastered, it’s an essential skill for making clean centers in many crochet projects, from sweaters to hats. You can follow a dedicated magic ring video if you need a visual step-by-step.

Tip: Practicing the magic ring pays off for many crochet patterns down the road. It gives your projects a professional, polished look.

Beginning Your Hexagon: First Round of Double Crochets

Start with a chain of three inside the magic ring – this counts as your first double crochet. To make a double crochet, yarn over, insert your hook into the ring, pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over again, and pull through the last two.

Create two more double crochets into the ring for a total of three, keeping the stitches snug but not too tight. This forms your first "shell" (a cluster of three double crochets).

Next, chain two. This marks your corner. Repeat: three double crochets into the magic ring, then chain two. Continue this process until you’ve made six shells separated by chain twos around the ring. Remember to crochet over your tail yarn to make securing the center easier later.

Common mistakes in this round include dropping shells (not having six sets) or forgetting to chain in the corners. Double check your count as you work for smooth progress.

Completing the First Hexagon Round: Making Six Shells

Continue adding sets of three double crochets separated by chain twos until you’ve made a total of six shells. Keep track by counting your "bumps" or shell clusters as you go.

• Six sets of three double crochet clusters
• Chain two between each set
• Double check your count before closing the round

If your yarn tail shortens, just give it a tug to keep it snug and accessible. To close the round, chain one, then insert your hook into the top of your starting chain three (not the chain space), and make a single crochet. Holding open the seam ensures you have three double crochets on either side of the join, keeping your hexagon sides even.

If your circle puckers or domes, gently flatten it with your fingers or adjust your stitch tension for the next round.

Expanding Your Hexagon: Subsequent Rounds Explained

Now that you have your first round complete, it’s time to grow your hexagon. Turn your work, then chain three to count as your first double crochet for round two. In the corner space you just made, add two more double crochets to form your first shell.

Here’s the rhythm for hexagon growth:

• In every corner space, make three double crochets, chain two, then three more double crochets (this creates the hex’s corner)
• In every side space (the gap between corners), make just three double crochets with no chain between
• As you work, your hexagon will get bigger with more side spaces per round

It’s helpful to use a stitch marker in your initial chain 3 at the start of each round to identify where to join when you work your way back. Always check that corners have two shells and a chain two, while sides only have one shell.

Keep your stitches even and push stitches back on your hook if needed. If your sides look wobbly or uneven, count each group to make sure every shell and chain is in its correct place.

Step-by-step for expanding:

• End each round with a partial shell in the last side space
• Remove your stitch marker, chain one, join with a single crochet at the starting chain 3
• Begin each new round with chain three and two double crochets in the corner, then continue shell patterns around

If your hexagon starts to look wonky, it’s often due to missing shells or extra chains in corners. Pause and recount to keep the shape consistent.

Using Stitch Markers to Track Your Rounds

Stitch markers are your best friend here. Place markers at the start of each round in your beginning chain 3 so you always know where you need to join. For fuss-free tracking, you can also pop markers into each new corner as you go.

Bright, contrasting colors make them easy to find. Move the marker up with each round so you’re always set up for smooth, even joins. If you’re an experienced crocheter, stitch markers might not be necessary, but they’re great for peace of mind.

Tip: For fluffy chenille, large or locking stitch markers make it easier to spot your round starts.

Measuring for the Perfect Fit: When to Stop Your Hexagon

To shape the body of your cardigan, you’ll fold your growing hexagon in half with sides lined up to form a "T" – the stem of the T forms a sleeve, the cross of the T forms half your body width.

Lay the piece flat and measure from the center fold (at your belly button) out to the side of your ribs. When the width matches this measurement, you’re ready to stop adding rounds. Make two matching hexagons for your front and back.

You can adjust based on your body shape. Broader-shouldered or more petite, just keep working rounds until the fit feels right. Customization is as simple as working more or fewer rounds for each hexagon.

Joining Your Hexagons: Creating the Back Seam

Once your two hexagons are finished, you’ll join them to create the back of your cardigan. There are several ways to do this—sewing, a row of single crochets, or the chain method used in this tutorial.

For a neat, flat seam:

1. Lay both hexagons flat, lining up the sides that form the back.
2. Keeping your working yarn attached, insert your hook through the matching chain/corner of both pieces.
3. Pull up a loop, make a single crochet, then chain three.
4. Repeat: insert hook into next matching spaces of both hexagons, single crochet, chain three.

This join keeps the seam flat but flexible without bulk or gaps. At the end of the seam, slip stitch to finish, cut your yarn, and weave in the end.

If you want to see alternate joining techniques or compare finishing looks, check the Quick Hexagon Cardigan Tutorial, which explores additional methods and variations.

Attaching Sleeves to Your Cardigan Base

Place your joined hexagon piece so the seam faces you and the “right” side is inside (wrong side out for joining). The next step is to close up the sleeves.

With the sweater still inside out, attach your yarn at the chain/corner of the sleeve section. Use the same technique: insert hook through both matching spaces, single crochet, chain three. Continue up the sleeve, joining both hexagon edges.

Leave two or three shells open at the neck for comfortable fit and easy movement. Try on the cardigan before securing to check the neck opening—it’s simple to undo a join if you decide you want to adjust the size.

Once your sleeves are joined, flip your cardigan right side out and try it on. You’ll see how smooth and tidy the seams look.

Making Your Cardigan Longer: Adding Rows to the Bottom

There’s plenty of room to customize the length of your cardigan. To make it longer, join yarn at a bottom corner and chain two (counting the slip stitch as a chain). Work two more double crochets to form your first shell.

Continue three double crochets into each space along the bottom. When you reach the back seam join, use half shells (two double crochets in each space) to transition smoothly over the seam. This trick avoids puckering along the bottom and keeps your hemline even.

Alternate between rows that start and end with shells and rows that begin with chain three for a space, ending with a double crochet in the last chain. This mix keeps your fabric from ruffling or looking too bulky.

Customize the total number of rows to get the perfect fit for your wardrobe. Want cropped? Stop early. Love tunic length? Add a few more rows.

Decreasing at the Back Seam for a Flat Finish

To keep the back seam from puffing out, use a simple decrease on row five (or if you notice bunching). Work as follows:

1. Start a double crochet in the first space, but leave two loops on your hook.
2. Start a second double crochet in the next seam space across the back, then pull through all three loops.
3. Make one more double crochet in the same space.

This clusters the shells right over the seam, reducing excess fabric and securing an even tension through the join. Adjust the decreases as needed to fit your body shape, especially if the cardigan sits low on the back.

Adding a Neat Edge Around the Cardigan

Well-finished edges really give the cardigan a professional look and durability. Here’s the process to get a smooth, matching edge all the way around:

Row 1: Single Crochet

• Start at any corner, chain one, and work single crochets along every edge (side of rows, bottom, collar, and sleeve). For each shell or space, you’ll place about three single crochets, adjusting to keep the edge flat.
• At corners (usually chain two spaces), put a single crochet in each chain or place two in tighter corners.

Row 2: Double Crochet

• With your yarn (for thick edging, double or quadruple thin strands to match the cardigan’s thickness), work one double crochet in each stitch.
• In each corner, work three double crochets into the center stitch to keep the edge turning smoothly.

If you love a rounded look around the collar and bottom, use sets of three double crochets in corners instead of four with a chain. You can experiment with the style you like best.

Consistent edging is essential, especially when using textured or fluffy yarns like chenille. It smooths out any unevenness, locks in ends, and gives you a border that looks great no matter how you layer the cardigan.

You can find more ideas for finishing touches by browsing the Cardigan Crochet Collection.

Finishing Sleeve Length and Adding Sleeve Edging

To match the body, lengthen your sleeves before adding their edges:

1. Attach your yarn at the sleeve’s underarm space with a slip stitch, chain two, then add two double crochets for your first shell.
2. Continue with three double crochets per space around the sleeve for as many rounds as needed. Decrease over seams to narrow the fit if desired, or leave open for a more relaxed, wide sleeve.
3. To mirror the body, finish with two rows of double crochet, matching yarn thickness with the rest of the edging.
4. Join the last round with a slip stitch, chain one, and cut your yarn.

Always try on your cardigan before securing the final ends to make sure sleeve length and width are just right.

Final Assembly Tips and Wearing Your Cardigan

Once sleeves and edges are set, flip the cardigan inside-out to hide your seams. Make sure all joins lie flat and smooth. Weave in every loose end—all those details add to the quality and comfort of the finished sweater.

Try on your cardigan to check the neck, armholes, and fit around your body. If you want, you can add decorative buttons, a belt, or even fun patches to make it your own.

With just a couple of well-placed accents, your Hexy Cardigan can go from weekend wear to an eye-catching part of your wardrobe.

Helpful Resources and Links

• Need a printable template or detailed instructions? Download my free crochet pattern PDF.
• Get the step-by-step written pattern for reference.
• Prefer watching and pausing video? Check out the right-handed tutorial or left-handed tutorial.
• Browse more easy cardigan projects like the Cozy Cardi Easy Crochet Sweater.
• Explore the full Handmade Crochet Sweaters Collection for more designs.

Tips for Beginners Working with Chenille Yarn

Chenille can feel tricky at first but gives a luxurious result:

• Work slowly to keep your stitches visible and avoid splitting fluffy fibers.
• Use a hook one size larger if you’re struggling with tension.
• Don’t yank out mistakes—gently pull the yarn back so it doesn’t shed or break.
• Watch stitch counts—fluffy yarn hides mistakes.
• Place extra stitch markers, especially at corners or joins for easier tracking.

Patience and gentle handling will make your chenille project stress-free. The fabric feels as cozy as it looks.

Troubleshooting Common Issues While Making the Hexy Cardigan

If you run into problems, here’s how to fix them:

• Hexagon curling or warping: Check your stitch counts each round, block the finished hexagons flat if needed.
• Sides aren’t even: Sometimes shells get skipped. Pause, lay out your work, and count shells and chain spaces.
• Loose joins or holes: Try reworking joins with a firmer slip stitch or pull tighter, especially when using soft chenille.
• Poor stitch definition: Switch to a slightly smaller hook or work more slowly.
• Seams are bulky: Use flatter joins like single crochet with chains instead of double crochet or whipstitch.
• When to frog and redo: If you spot a mistake in the last round, it’s worth taking out and fixing. For deep errors, weigh the time vs. visibility; sometimes a clever fix is enough.

The more you practice, the easier it gets. Don’t be afraid to pull back and adjust; your patience will pay off.

Customizing Your Hexy Cardigan: Size, Color, and Style Ideas

You can shape this cardigan for anyone. Add more rounds for an oversized look or stop sooner for a fitted, cropped effect.

Mix up colors—try stripes, contrasting borders, or variegated yarn for a fun twist. Chenille yarn comes in so many shades that you can create bold or subtle designs.

You can lengthen the sleeves for full coverage, taper them for a fitted wrist, or leave open for a loose, kimono style. Even the edge can be tailored: scalloped, pointed, or straight.

Every combination lets you create a truly custom sweater that’s your style.

Conclusion

Making a Super Easy Hexy Cardigan is a rewarding project whether you’re just starting out or have crocheted for years. With simple stitches, chunky yarn, and a forgiving pattern, it’s a fast way to create a handmade sweater that fits beautifully.

You control the size, color, and finishing touches, making every Hexy Cardigan truly unique. With just a hook, yarn, a little patience, and the right guidance, you’ll end up with a cozy piece you’ll wear for years.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out the Zig Zag Hexi Crochet Pattern for more ways to play with hexagons. And don’t forget to browse Secret Yarnery for more quick, easy cardigans and beginner-friendly sweater patterns. Happy crocheting!

Christa Patel is the creative mind behind the Secret Yarnery, a trusted resource for crochet enthusiasts worldwide. With years of experience, Christa specializes in designing beginner-friendly yet stunning crochet patterns that inspire creativity and confidence in crafters of all skill levels.

As a passionate crocheter, Christa is known for her clear and approachable teaching style, breaking down complex patterns into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Through her engaging video tutorials, written patterns, and helpful tips, she has cultivated a community where crocheters can connect, learn, and share their work.

Christa’s dedication to making crochet fun and accessible shines in every project she creates, from colorful blankets to intricate borders. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just picking up a hook for the first time, Christa's guidance will help you craft something beautiful.

For more crochet patterns, tips, and inspiration, visit her website at The Secret Yarnery, or check out her YouTube channel filled with step-by-step tutorials.