Pattern Review: Fae Cardigan and Duster by Made for Mermaids

If you're looking for a quick, versatile cardigan pattern, the Fae Cardigan and Duster from Made for Mermaids is worth your attention. I've made two versions and I love both of them. This is the kind of piece you can dress up or wear casually, which makes it a great addition to a handmade wardrobe.

The Fae Cardigan came in my monthly ThreadCrate subscription box, which is exactly the kind of pattern I probably wouldn't have picked for myself but am so glad I tried!

Pattern Details at a Glance

Description: Women's cardigan with three length options (tunic, cardi, and duster), two neckband options (straight and shawl collar), four sleeve options (fitted, 3/4, lantern, and color-blocked lantern), and optional front pockets.

Difficulty: Beginner

Time to Sew: About 30 minutes

Format: PDF (standard 8.5"x11") instant download or A0 print shop copy

My Two Versions

I made a deep purple cardi-length version with the regular neckband and lantern sleeves, and a turquoise tunic-length version with the shawl collar and fitted sleeves. Both came out beautifully.

Between the two, I prefer the fitted sleeves. The lantern sleeves are pretty, but they do get in the way when you're doing things with your hands. For the neckline, I think the shawl collar looks a little more elegant, but both the shawl and the regular neckband are nice.

What You'll Need

• 2 to 3 yards of fabric, depending on which length you're making

• Coordinating thread

• Four-way stretch knit fabric works best for this pattern

I used a four-way stretch knit for both cardigans. I completed the entire project on my serger, which I highly recommend for knit projects. A sewing machine works too, but a serger gives you stretchier seams and a cleaner finished edge. If you're new to sewing knits, read up on the technique before you start.

Honest Fit Notes

A couple of things worth knowing before you start:

The shoulder seams are intentionally slouchy. They drop partway down your biceps. This is a design feature, not an error, but it can be surprising if you're not expecting it.

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Made for Mermaids tends to run large. If your measurements fall between two sizes, size down. This cardigan is very flowy, and going too big makes it feel shapeless rather than relaxed.

I love how both of my Fae Cardigans turned out, and I'll definitely be making more. The variety of options makes it feel like multiple patterns in one, and at 30 minutes to sew, it's one of the fastest knit garments you can make.

Have you tried this pattern? I'd love to see your version in the comments!