If you’ve been scrolling through social media or browsing craft forums lately, you already know that handmade garments—especially cozy, oversized cardigans—are having a massive moment in the fashion world. But among all the techniques out there, one specific construction method has completely captured the hearts of crocheters everywhere: the hexagon cardigan.
Today, we are diving deep into one of the most stylish, comfortable, and beginner-friendly hexagon patterns available: The Mathilda Cardigan designed by Hortense from Knitting with Chopsticks.
Whether you are an adventurous beginner ready to tackle your first wearable project or an experienced maker looking for a satisfying, color-blocked project, this comprehensive review and pattern showcase will tell you everything you need to know before casting on.
1. What Makes the Mathilda Cardigan So Special?
The Mathilda Cardigan isn’t just another crochet sweater; it’s a brilliant fusion of clever construction, bold design accents, and practical wearable features.
At first glance, hexagon cardigans can look like magic. You start by making two flat, six-sided shapes (hexagons) that look a bit ruffly when laid down flat. But as soon as you fold them in half, they magically morph into an “L” shape that forms one full sleeve, half of the back, and half of the front bodice!
Hortense from Knitting with Chopsticks took this iconic technique and elevated it to a whole new level. Here is why this particular pattern stands out from the crowd:
A. Striking Contrast Color Accents
While many hexagon cardigans stick to monochrome palettes or subtle gradients, the Mathilda Cardigan introduces a brilliant pop of contrast. The original design pairs a soothing, earthy Slate Green base with a high-impact Neon Pink accent row. This sharp line of color frames the collar, runs along the sleeves, and outlines the pockets, giving the cardigan a modern, store-bought designer vibe.
B. Flattering A-Line Silhouette
Because of the nature of hexagon construction, cardigans made with this method naturally expand as you add more rounds. This means the cardigan naturally flares slightly at the hips. Instead of fighting this shape, the Mathilda Cardigan embraces it, creating an ultra-flattering A-line fit that looks great on all body types without feeling stiff or restricted around the waist and hips.
C. Extended Sleeves and Body
A common criticism of basic hexagon cardigans is that if you make the hexagon wide enough to fit your bust, the sleeves end up way too wide, or if you fit the sleeves, the back is too narrow. The Mathilda Cardigan solves this problem with dedicated extension sections. Once the main hexagons are joined, you add separate extensions for the lower body and balloon-style sleeves, ensuring an ideal fit without bulk.
D. Practical Pockets
Let’s be honest: everything is better with pockets! The Mathilda Cardigan features two deep, rectangular patch pockets finished with a matching contrast trim. They are perfect for holding your phone, keys, lip balm, or just keeping your hands warm on chilly mornings.
2. Materials & Tools Required
Before starting your Mathilda Cardigan, you’ll need to gather your tools and yarn. Here is the full breakdown of recommended materials:
| Material | Detail / Specification |
|---|---|
| Crochet Hook | 5.0 mm / US H-8 (or size needed to meet gauge) |
| Main Color Yarn | Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Aran (50% Wool, 50% Acrylic) Colorway: Slate Green (9 to 13 skeins depending on size) |
| Contrast Yarn | Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Aran (50% Wool, 50% Acrylic) Colorway: Neon Pink (1 to 2 skeins depending on size) |
| Notions | Tapestry needle for weaving ends, scissors, tape measure |
(Note: Each skein of Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Aran contains approximately 197 yards / 180 meters per 100g ball).
Choosing the Right Yarn
The choice of yarn plays a crucial role in how your cardigan drapes and feels. The original sample uses Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Aran, which offers a blend of 50% wool and 50% acrylic.
- Why Wool/Acrylic Blends Work Great: Wool provides natural warmth, elasticity, and structure, while acrylic adds softness, durability, and easy washing care.
- Yarn Weight Considerations: This pattern uses Aran / Worsted (Category 4) yarn. Using a yarn that is too heavy will make the garment feel stiff and heavy, whereas a yarn that is too light might result in a floppy cardigan that doesn’t hold its shape.
3. Size Guide & Yarn Quantity Requirements
The Mathilda Cardigan pattern covers five comprehensive sizes: Small (S), Medium (M), Large (L), Extra Large (XL), and 2X Large (2XL).
To help you plan your purchase and calculate how much yarn you’ll need, refer to the sizing and yardage table below:
| Size | Bust Circumference | Main Color Skeins | Contrast Skeins |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 78 cm / 30.75″ | 8 Skeins | 1 Skein |
| M | 90 cm / 35.5″ | 9 Skeins | 1 Skein |
| L | 102 cm / 40.0″ | 10 Skeins | 2 Skeins |
| XL | 114 cm / 44.75″ | 12 Skeins | 2 Skeins |
| 2XL | 126 cm / 49.5″ | 13 Skeins | 2 Skeins |
Sizing & Fit Tips:
- Bust vs. Hips: Remember that the bust measurement is taken flat across the chest. Because of the hexagon design, the hem at the hips will be significantly wider (for instance, Size Medium has a 90 cm / 35.5″ bust and a 118 cm / 46.5″ hip width).
- Ease: The garment is designed with comfortable ease. If you are between sizes, consider sizing down if you prefer a more tailored fit, or sizing up if you love a slouchy, oversized look.
4. Gauge and Swatching: Don’t Skip This Step!
When crocheting wearable garments, gauge is everything. If your gauge is too tight, your cardigan will turn out small and stiff; if it is too loose, your cardigan will stretch out of shape and drag on the floor.
- Pattern Gauge: 15 stitches by 10 rows = 10 cm x 10 cm (4″ x 4″) square worked in double crochet (dc) using the 5.0 mm hook.
How to Check Your Gauge:
- Chain 20 stitches.
- Work 12 rows of standard Double Crochet (US notation).
- Lay your swatch flat on a table without stretching it.
- Using a rigid ruler, measure a 10 cm (4″) square in the middle of your swatch and count both the number of stitches across and the number of rows vertically.
- Adjusting: If you have more than 15 stitches in 10 cm, your hook is too small—switch to a larger hook (e.g., 5.5 mm). If you have fewer than 15 stitches, switch to a smaller hook (e.g., 4.5 mm).
5. Key Construction Steps Breakdown
Understanding the anatomy of how the Mathilda Cardigan comes together will make working through the pattern effortless. Here is an overview of the step-by-step process:
- Step 1: Crochet 2 Large Hexagons: You start in the center with a small ring and build outward. Each round adds increases at six corner points, creating a flat hexagon. As the hexagon grows, you work the main section in double crochet, then switch to the contrast color for a special stitch pattern, before switching back to the main color.
- Step 2: Assembly & Seaming: Once both hexagons are completed to your size specifications, you fold each one in half. Suddenly, the cardigan shape appears! With wrong sides facing out, you seam along the top of the sleeves and down the back center seam using a mattress stitch or slip stitch join.
- Step 3: Lower Body Length: After joining the halves, you join yarn at the bottom hem and work back-and-forth in rows across the bottom edge. This allows you to add as much length as you want to turn it into a tunic, knee-length coat, or standard hip-length cardigan.
- Step 4: Sleeve Extensions & Shaped Cuffs: The sleeves are worked directly in the round onto the existing sleeve openings. Decreases are worked along the lower arm to taper the sleeve into a cozy cuff, creating a stylish balloon sleeve effect.
- Step 5: Pockets & Finishing: Two matching square pockets are crocheted separately and stitched onto the front panels. Finally, you weave in all loose ends and block the cardigan gently with steam or water to smooth out the stitches and set the final shape.
6. Color Combination Inspiration Ideas
While the original Slate Green + Neon Pink combination is an absolute showstopper, one of the best parts about making your own garment is total color customization! Here are a few curated color palettes to inspire your Mathilda Cardigan build:
- Earthy Neutral & Terracotta: Main Color: Cream / Oat | Contrast Accent: Deep Terracotta or Rust (Warm, boho-chic, and perfect for autumn weather).
- Midnight Sky & Gold: Main Color: Navy Blue | Contrast Accent: Mustard Yellow / Gold (Elegant, high contrast, and timelessly modern).
- Pastel Dream: Main Color: Soft Lavender | Contrast Accent: Mint Green (Soft, playful, and ideal for spring layering).
- Monochrome Minimalist: Main Color: Charcoal Grey | Contrast Accent: Pure White (Sleek, urban, and easy to match with any outfit in your wardrobe).
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this pattern suitable for complete beginners?
If you know how to perform basic crochet stitches like Single Crochet (sc), Double Crochet (dc), and Chain (ch), you can make this cardigan! The pattern uses standard US terminology, includes clear round-by-round counts, and features photos illustrating key steps like folding and seaming.
Can I adjust the length of the cardigan?
Yes, absolutely! The bottom extension section is worked in simple rows, meaning you can add extra rows for a longer coat-style cardigan or work fewer rows for a cropped look.
How do I care for my handmade cardigan?
Because the recommended yarn contains 50% wool, it is best to hand wash your completed cardigan in lukewarm water with a gentle wool detergent. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring or twist), lay it flat on a towel, and shape it to dry. Never hang a wet crocheted cardigan, as the heavy water weight will pull the stitches out of shape!
8. Get Your Copy of the Mathilda Cardigan Pattern!
Are you ready to grab your hook, pick your favorite yarn colors, and create a cozy handmade garment you’ll be proud to wear all season long?
Support independent crochet designer Hortense (Knitting with Chopsticks) by downloading the full, printable PDF pattern directly from her official shop! The PDF includes all detailed stitch instructions, size charts, schematics, and step-by-step tutorial photos.
👉 Click Here to Get the Mathilda Cardigan Pattern 👈
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