Free Crochet Mesh Front Tie Cardigan Pattern for Daywear

There is something wonderfully versatile about a crochet cardigan that works just as hard as you do throughout the day. Whether you are stepping out for brunch, heading to a weekend market, or layering over a sundress for an afternoon stroll, the right cardigan can pull an entire look together effortlessly. This free crochet mesh front tie cardigan pattern is exactly that kind of piece — breezy, stylish, and wearable from morning to evening without a second thought.

This pattern is designed for crocheters who are comfortable with basic stitches and are ready to create something that feels genuinely fashionable rather than purely functional. The open mesh construction gives the cardigan a lightweight, airy quality that makes it perfect for warmer days, while the front tie detail adds a flattering, feminine touch that sets it apart from a standard button-up style. Best of all, this pattern is completely free, and it walks you through every step from foundation chain to final weave-in.

Let’s get into everything you need to know to make this cardigan your new favorite daywear staple.

About This Pattern

This crochet mesh cardigan pattern creates a relaxed-fit, open-front style that falls to approximately hip length. The body is worked in a simple mesh stitch that creates a beautiful lattice effect without being overly complicated to execute. The mesh construction means this cardigan works up faster than it looks, and the visual payoff is stunning.

The front tie is created using long crochet ties worked directly into the front edges, giving you the option to cinch the waist for a more defined silhouette or leave the cardigan loose and flowy. This dual-wear quality is what makes it such a strong daywear choice — one cardigan, two completely different looks.

Materials You Will Need

Before you begin, gather everything on this list so your project flows smoothly from start to finish.

Yarn: Approximately 400–600 yards of lightweight cotton or cotton-blend yarn in a DK or light worsted weight. The exact yardage depends on your size. Cotton yarn is the ideal choice for a mesh cardigan because it has natural breathability, drapes beautifully, and holds its shape over time. Popular choices include Paintbox Simply DK, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, and Drops Safran, though any DK or light worsted weight cotton will work.

Hook: US Size G-6 (4.0 mm) or H-8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook. Use whichever hook gives you the correct gauge. If your gauge is tight, go up a hook size; if it is loose, go down.

Notions: Scissors, yarn needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers, and a tape measure.

Gauge: 14 stitches and 8 rows = 4 inches in the mesh stitch pattern. Gauge is important in garment making, so take the time to crochet a swatch before starting the full piece. Block your swatch to get an accurate measurement.

Sizing Information

This pattern is written for sizes XS through 3XL. The finished bust measurements are as follows:

XS fits a 32–34 inch bust, S fits a 34–36 inch bust, M fits a 36–38 inch bust, L fits a 40–42 inch bust, XL fits a 44–46 inch bust, 2XL fits a 48–50 inch bust, and 3XL fits a 52–54 inch bust.

The cardigan is worked with 2–4 inches of positive ease, meaning it fits slightly larger than your actual measurements for a comfortable, relaxed look. Choose your size based on your actual bust measurement and the amount of ease you prefer.

Abbreviations and Stitches Used

Throughout this pattern, the following abbreviations appear:

ch — chain, sl st — slip stitch, sc — single crochet, dc — double crochet, ch-2 sp — chain-2 space, sp — space, st — stitch, rep — repeat, RS — right side, WS — wrong side, beg — beginning, rem — remaining, sk — skip.

The mesh stitch pattern used in this cardigan consists of alternating double crochets and chain-2 spaces. It creates an open, grid-like fabric that is airy and beautiful. Here is how it works on a base row: chain a multiple of 3 plus 4. Row 1 (RS): dc in the 4th chain from hook, then work (ch 2, sk 2 ch, dc in next ch) across. Chain 3, turn. Row 2: dc in first ch-2 sp, then (ch 2, dc in next ch-2 sp) across, ending dc in top of turning chain. Chain 3, turn. Repeat Row 2 for the pattern.

Pattern Instructions

Back Panel

The cardigan is constructed in flat panels that are seamed at the shoulders and sides. Begin with the back panel, which is the widest piece.

Foundation: Chain 61 (67, 73, 79, 85, 91, 97) for sizes XS (S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL).

Row 1 (RS): Dc in the 4th chain from hook. Work (ch 2, sk 2 ch, dc in next ch) across to end. You should have 20 (22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32) mesh spaces. Chain 3, turn.

Rows 2 through 28 (30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40): Work in mesh stitch pattern as established. Continue until the back panel measures approximately 14 (14.5, 15, 15, 15.5, 15.5, 16) inches from the foundation chain, ending with a WS row. Fasten off and set aside.

Right Front Panel

The two front panels are worked separately and are narrower than the back, allowing for the open front design that accommodates the tie closure.

Foundation: Chain 31 (34, 37, 40, 43, 46, 49) for sizes XS (S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL).

Row 1 (RS): Dc in the 4th chain from hook. Work (ch 2, sk 2 ch, dc in next ch) across. You should have 10 (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) mesh spaces. Chain 3, turn.

Continue in mesh stitch pattern for the same number of rows as the back panel. When the front panel matches the back in length, fasten off. Set aside.

Left Front Panel

Work exactly as the right front panel. When complete, you will have two mirror-image front panels that are each approximately half the width of the back.

Joining Shoulder Seams

Lay the back panel flat with the right side facing up. Place the right front panel on top, right sides together, aligning the top edges. Using a yarn needle and a length of yarn, whipstitch or slip stitch the shoulder seams together. Each shoulder seam spans approximately 8 (8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11) mesh spaces from the outer edge toward the center. Leave the center of the back neckline open to create the neck opening. Repeat for the left front panel.

Sleeves

The sleeves are worked flat and seamed, then attached to the body.

Foundation: Chain 43 (43, 46, 49, 52, 55, 58) for sizes XS (S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL).

Row 1: Dc in the 4th chain from hook. Work (ch 2, sk 2 ch, dc in next ch) across. Chain 3, turn.

Continue in mesh stitch for 22 (22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32) rows, or until the sleeve measures approximately 11 (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) inches from foundation. The sleeves are designed to be three-quarter length, giving the cardigan its daywear appeal. If you prefer full-length sleeves, simply add rows until you reach your desired length.

Fold the sleeve in half lengthwise with right sides together and seam the long edge to form a tube. Fasten off. Repeat for the second sleeve.

Attaching the Sleeves

With right sides facing, align the top edge of the sleeve with the armhole opening on the body of the cardigan. The armhole is the open area between the shoulder seam and the side edge of the panels. Pin in place if needed, then seam using slip stitch or whipstitch. Repeat for the other sleeve.

Once both sleeves are attached, seam the sides of the cardigan from the bottom edge up to where the sleeve begins, leaving the sleeve tube open at the bottom (cuff). This creates clean side seams while keeping the lower sleeve edge open and airy.

Adding the Front Ties

The front ties are what make this cardigan truly special as a daywear piece. They add a playful, intentional element to what could otherwise be a basic open-front style.

To make the ties, join yarn at the bottom inner corner of the right front panel with a slip stitch. Chain 80 (or your preferred tie length — longer ties allow for more wrapping and bow options). Slip stitch back down the chain to create a firm, cord-like tie. Fasten off and weave in the end.

Repeat on the left front panel, joining at the same row height on the inner edge so both ties are symmetrical.

To wear the tied style, cross the ties over each other and either tie them in a bow at the center front or wrap them around to the back and tie at the waist — both options give a beautiful, figure-flattering effect. For the open, flowy look, simply leave the ties hanging loose at the front.

Finishing the Cardigan

Once all pieces are assembled, it is time to add the finishing border that gives this cardigan its polished, professional appearance.

Join yarn at the bottom right corner of the right front panel. Work a single crochet border all the way around the outer edges of the cardigan — up the right front, across the back neckline, and down the left front — working 1 sc in each dc and 2 sc in each chain-2 space for consistent coverage. At corners, work 3 sc in the corner stitch to allow the border to lie flat. When you reach the start, slip stitch to join. Fasten off.

Repeat a single round of sc along each cuff opening and along the bottom hem of the cardigan. This creates a cohesive, finished look throughout.

Weave in all remaining ends using your yarn needle, working the tails into the mesh stitches in multiple directions so they stay secure through washing and wearing.

Blocking Your Finished Cardigan

Blocking is a step that many crocheters skip, but for a mesh garment like this one, it makes an enormous difference. Blocking opens up the mesh stitches, evens out any inconsistencies, and allows the cardigan to drape correctly on the body.

To block your finished cardigan, fill a basin with cool water and submerge the garment completely. Gently press out air bubbles and let it soak for 15–20 minutes. Carefully lift the cardigan from the water supporting its full weight, gently squeeze out excess water without wringing, then roll it in a clean towel to remove more moisture. Lay it flat on a blocking mat or clean surface, gently stretching it to your target measurements, and pin if needed. Allow it to dry completely before wearing or storing.

Styling Tips for Daywear

The beauty of this mesh front tie cardigan is how versatile it is across different daywear scenarios. Here are some easy outfit ideas to get you started.

For a casual daytime look, pair the cardigan over a fitted tank top and high-waisted jeans. Tie the front at the waist and tuck the ties into a casual knot. Add sandals or sneakers and a tote bag for an effortlessly put-together feel.

For a beach or resort look, wear the cardigan open over a swimsuit or bikini top as a stylish cover-up. The mesh construction means it dries quickly if it gets splashed, and the open front makes it easy to slip on and off.

For a dressed-up daytime look, layer the cardigan over a silky cami and wide-leg trousers. Tie the front in a neat bow and add block heels or loafers for a look that transitions beautifully from a morning coffee meeting to a leisurely lunch.

For cooler days, the cardigan layers beautifully over a long-sleeved fitted top. The mesh allows the color and texture of the underlayer to show through, creating an interesting visual effect.

Yarn Substitution Tips

If you cannot find the specific yarn brands mentioned, the most important thing when substituting is to match the weight and fiber content as closely as possible. A DK or light worsted weight cotton or cotton-blend yarn will give you the best results for this pattern. Avoid yarns that are very fuzzy or textured, as these will obscure the beautiful mesh stitch pattern that makes this cardigan so appealing. A smooth, plied yarn with good stitch definition is ideal.

If you choose a yarn with more synthetic content, the cardigan may have slightly less drape but will also have greater stretch and recovery, which can be a plus for fit.

Care Instructions

To keep your mesh cardigan looking its best season after season, hand wash it in cool water with a gentle detergent or machine wash on a delicate cycle inside a mesh laundry bag. Always lay flat to dry rather than hanging, as wet crochet garments can stretch significantly under their own weight. Store folded rather than on a hanger for the same reason.

A Note on Customization

This pattern is wonderfully adaptable to your personal style. If you prefer longer sleeves, simply work additional rows on each sleeve before seaming. If you want a longer body, add rows to the back and front panels before joining the shoulders. You can also play with color — a tonal gradient yarn gives the mesh stitch a gorgeous dimensional look, or you can work each section in a contrasting color for a color-blocked effect that looks intentional and modern.

The tie length is also fully customizable. Shorter ties (chain 50 or 60) give a more subtle accent, while longer ties (chain 100 or more) allow for elaborate wrapping and knotting options.

Why This Cardigan Works for Every Body

The mesh front tie cardigan is designed with wearability in mind across the full size range. The open front with flexible ties means there is no need for precise button placement or specific shaping at the bust — the tie allows each wearer to position the closure exactly where it is most flattering for their body. The relaxed positive ease means the body of the cardigan skims rather than clings, which is comfortable and universally flattering. The three-quarter sleeve length keeps arms from feeling restricted and works for both warm and mild weather.

Final Thoughts

A handmade crochet cardigan is one of those wardrobe pieces that genuinely earns its place. Unlike fast fashion that loses its appeal after a few wears, a garment you have made yourself carries meaning and care in every stitch. This free crochet mesh front tie cardigan pattern gives you something beautiful, practical, and deeply satisfying to make — a piece that you will reach for again and again throughout the warmer months and beyond.

Whether you are a confident intermediate crocheter looking for a project that challenges you just enough, or a newer maker ready to take on your first garment, this pattern meets you where you are. Take your time with the gauge swatch, enjoy the rhythm of the mesh stitch, and look forward to the moment you tie that front bow for the first time and realize the cardigan fits perfectly.

Happy crocheting — and enjoy every wear.