Pattern Spotlight: The Southern Sunset Cardigan + Mini — A Perfect “Mini & Me” Make
- violetloopscrochet
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
If you love cozy texture, easy wearability, and handmade pieces that feel as fun to make as they are to style, the Southern Sunset Cardigan and the Southern Sunset Cardigan Mini might become your new favorite projects. Both versions feature the signature star stitch from the Southern Sunset Collection — a nostalgic, dimensional stitch that works beautifully in tonals, low-contrast variegated yarns, and curated DK palettes.
The result? A soft, drapey cardigan that feels like a warm hug. And with both an adult and a kids’ version, it’s the perfect opportunity for a Mini & Me matching moment.
The Southern Sunset Cardigan (Adult Version)
The adult Southern Sunset Cardigan is designed for comfort and versatility. Using DK weight yarn and worked flat from the bottom up, this cardigan showcases the star stitch in all its glory. The texture is eye-catching without being overwhelming, and the finished drape makes it easy to layer in any season.
Whether you prefer a soft neutral, a bold tonal, or a low-contrast variegated colorway, the star stitch gives every skein the chance to shine.
What makes it special:
DK weight for warmth without bulk
Customizable body and sleeve length
Relaxed, everyday fit
Beginner-friendly construction
Stunning star stitch texture throughout
Works beautifully with tonal DK or subtle variegated yarns
Pair it with jeans, leggings, dresses, or a simple tee — this cardigan plays well with everything.
The Southern Sunset Cardigan Mini
The Mini version takes everything you love about the adult cardigan and transforms it into the sweetest kid-sized sweater. The stitch pattern is just as textured and playful, and the resulting fabric is soft and cozy — perfect for kids who want something comfy and colorful.
The mini version also works beautifully for showing off leftovers, DK minis, or fun kid palettes.
Why kids (and parents!) love it:
Easy to wear and easy to wash
Same signature star stitch, sized just right
Great for bright palettes, pastels, or rainbow fades
Quick to make — perfect for gifting
Customizable sleeve and body length
Matches perfectly with the adult version
Whether your little one loves sparkles, rainbows, or earthy neutrals — this cardigan is a fantastic canvas.
A Perfect “Mini & Me” Project
One of the most fun things about this pair of patterns is how effortlessly they coordinate. Because both cardigans are based on the same stitch, silhouette, and DK weight yarn, they look beautiful together — without being overly matchy.
Think:
Matching tonals (yours muted, theirs bright)
Coordinating fades
Same colorway in different intensities
Shared yarn base, different palettes
Scrappy versions for them, tonal for you
The possibilities are endless, and the photos? Absolutely adorable.
If you love intentional, handmade matching sets, this duo is a cozy, modern way to make that magic happen.
Yarn Suggestions
Both cardigans work beautifully in:
Tonals
Low-contrast variegated DK
Soft speckles
Seasonal palettes
The star stitch really shines when the yarn has slight variation — enough to highlight the spikes and petals of the texture without overpowering it.
Skill Level: Adventurous Beginner
If you’re new to garments, this is a great place to start. The construction is straightforward, the panels are easy to manage, and the stitch repeat becomes soothing once you settle into the rhythm.
And if you’re crocheting the mini version, the smaller size works as a confidence-building practice run before making the adult cardigan.
Make Your Own
The Southern Sunset Cardigan and Southern Sunset Cardigan Mini are the kind of makes that feel comforting from the moment you start the first row to the moment you slip them on. Whether you’re making one for yourself, one for a child, or both for a matching set, these cardigans blend texture, color, and cozy handmade joy in the loveliest way.
If you make one — or if you go full Mini & Me — please tag @violet.loops. I would love to see your colors and your cozy sunset cardigans out in the wild!
