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Pattern Review: Ariana Crochet Cardigan – A Color-Loving Classic with Modern Flair
Oh, this pattern had me at granny square! The Ariana cardigan by Berroco is a fabulous marriage of vintage charm and modern wearable design—perfect for crafters who love color play but still want something they can throw on with jeans or a maxi dress and feel instantly put-together.
Let’s talk details…
This isn’t a beginner pattern, but it’s not overly complex either. I’d call it an ambitious confident beginner to intermediate project. You’ll be working lots of classic granny squares (hello nostalgia!) and then joining them with a clever layout that forms the base of the cardigan. After that, it’s all about shaping and structure—with the sleeves and front worked onto the square base.
You do need to be comfortable with shaping and seaming, but the payoff is worth it. The squares give you room to play with colors, while the construction gives it a boutique, tailored look.
What I Loved
- Color freedom! This is a stash-buster’s dream. You can follow Berroco’s soft pastel palette or go bold with jewel tones or warm autumn hues.
- Fit options. It comes in sizes from XS to 3XL, and the final shape is roomy without being shapeless. Great for layering in transitional weather.
- That vintage-but-modern balance. It’s got 70s granny square vibes but looks super fresh styled with today’s capsule wardrobes.
What I’d Tweak
- The pattern assumes some experience in layout planning. If you’ve never arranged granny squares into garments before, take your time with the blocking and layout. I ended up pinning mine to a mannequin to get the drape just right.
- The seaming can feel fiddly, especially around the shoulders—but once it’s done, it holds its shape beautifully.
This cardigan is the kind of project that reminds you why you love crochet—it’s creative, meditative, and gives you something gorgeous to show off at the end. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a satisfying make that lets your color creativity shine.
Rating: 9/10
Style, structure, and stash-busting possibilities… Ariana ticks all the right boxes.
