The Enchanted Fern Bell Sleeve Sweater: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Boho-Chic, Textured Layer

Introducing the Enchanted Fern Bell Sleeve Sweater

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite boho-chic layer! The Enchanted Fern Bell Sleeve Sweater is a stunning crochet pattern that combines dramatic, cascading bell sleeves with a unique, organic fern-like stitch pattern. This relaxed-fit sweater is crafted from a soft, drapey cotton-blend yarn, making it the perfect cozy statement piece for any wardrobe. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or a confident beginner looking for a rewarding project, this free pattern will guide you through creating a textured, handmade garment that is sure to turn heads.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable crochet experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) cotton-blend yarn (e.g., Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton or Knit Picks CotLin) in a dusty sage green. You will need approximately 1200-1500 yards for a size M.
• Hook: 5.5 mm (I-9) crochet hook
• Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Gauge: 14 double crochet (dc) x 8 rows = 4 inches in double crochet. Important: Always check your gauge to ensure the correct fit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is written for sizes S (M, L, XL). The sample shown is size M. Follow the instructions carefully for your chosen size.

Abbreviations

• ch = chain
• sc = single crochet
• dc = double crochet
• sl st = slip stitch
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• sk = skip
• rep = repeat

Special Stitch – Fern Stitch (worked in rows)

This pattern uses a beautiful, textured stitch that mimics fern leaves. Practice this stitch before starting your project.

• Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, *ch 3, sk 2 ch, sc in next ch* rep across. Turn.
• Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first sc, *ch 3, sc in next sc* rep across. Turn.
• Row 3: Ch 1, sc in first sc, *3 dc in next ch-3 space, sc in next sc* rep across. Turn.
• Row 4: Ch 1, sc in first sc, *ch 3, sk 3 dc, sc in next sc* rep across. Turn.
• Repeat Rows 2-4 for the pattern.

Back Panel

1. Foundation Chain: Ch 72 (80, 88, 96).
2. Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, *ch 3, sk 2 ch, sc in next ch* rep across. You should have 24 (27, 30, 33) sc stitches. Turn.
3. Work Fern Stitch Pattern: Repeat Rows 2-4 of the Fern Stitch until the piece measures 18 (19, 20, 21) inches from the start. Fasten off.

Front Panel

Work the Front Panel exactly the same as the Back Panel.

Sleeves (Make 2)

1. Foundation Chain: Ch 40 (44, 48, 52).
2. Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, *ch 3, sk 2 ch, sc in next ch* rep across. You should have 13 (14, 16, 17) sc stitches. Turn.
3. Work Even: Work the Fern Stitch pattern for 6 rows.
4. Increase Row (Row 7): Ch 1, sc in first sc, *ch 3, sc in next sc* rep across to the last sc, then work 2 sc in the last sc. (1 stitch increased). Turn.
5. Work Even: Work 5 rows even (no increases).
6. Repeat Increase: Repeat the Increase Row every 6th row until you have 19 (21, 23, 25) sc stitches.
7. Finish Sleeve: Continue working even (no increases) until the sleeve measures 18 (19, 20, 21) inches from the start. Fasten off.

Assembly

1. Sew Shoulder Seams: Place the Front and Back panels together with right sides facing. Sew 6 (7, 8, 9) inches from each outer edge for the shoulders, leaving the center 12 (13, 14, 15) inches open for the neck.
2. Mark Side Seams: Mark the side seams 9 (10, 11, 12) inches down from the shoulder seam on both sides of the body.
3. Sew Sleeves to Body: Match the center of the sleeve top to the shoulder seam. Sew the sleeve to the body between the markers.
4. Sew Sleeve and Side Seams: Sew the sleeve and side seams in one continuous line from the cuff to the hem.

Neckline Edging

1. With the right side facing, join the yarn at the shoulder seam.
2. Ch 1, then work single crochet (sc) evenly around the entire neck opening.
3. Join with a sl st to the first sc. Fasten off.
4. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle.

Your Enchanted Fern Bell Sleeve Sweater is complete! Enjoy your beautiful, handmade boho-chic layer.