Several years ago, I bought a cheap peplum cardigan from H&M. It was fitted, but had a little structure to it and could be worn with so many things. Not long after that purchase, I decided not to shop at stores like H&M anymore (because of their promotion of fast fashion and the impact that has on workers and the environment). But I wore that cardigan ALL. THE. TIME. And it was one of those pieces that I always received compliments on. Eventually it was too worn out to be presentable (and had pit stains, sorry TMI!).

So when I started sewing my own clothing, and then designing sewing patterns, I knew I had to recreate the cardigan, but better. Better fit, sleeker styling, more design options. I’d also recently seen a super cute lace bomber-style cardigan on Anthropologie that I ALSO had to have. SO I decided to nab two birds with one pattern. Enter: the Lulu Cardigan!

Lulu is a fitted knit cardigan with princess seams and two style options: a bomber-style zip up or a snap front peplum style. The pattern is drafted to fit very close with minimal ease in the bodice, but can also be easily sized up for a looser, more casual fit. I love how versatile this pattern is, and the tester versions are a testament to that! Speaking of the testers, I couldn’t have created this pattern without them. Their feedback and commitment to helping me get it right are so greatly appreciated! They created some really beautiful cardigans. Scroll through to see how they helped bring this pattern to life!


Geraldine (@sewista_in_training)



Danielle (@sew_danielle)


Olivia (@shaftedpin)

Chwryl (@chwrylsews)



Chloe (@no.idle.hands)


McKell (@mckellmakes)


Susan (@sew_can_sew)



Shelby (@handmadeshelby)


Mariane (@marianesglover)




Mandy (@make_it_sewing)


Lena (@thatlenaking)


Lulu (@lulu_sews)


Karen (@inspired.chick)


Siobhan (@moderndaymaker)


Alyssa (@igotsewl)


Shirley (@craftsy_moments)


Jessica (@kunklebaby)




Chelsea (@virginia.wool.f)





Heather (@vosewsandsews)


Katie (@katie.rose.83)


Emanuela (@emanuela_ker)


Johanna (@johannadoes)


Ashley (@ginghamhive)



Bernice (@sewbee73)

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September 28, 2020 — Casey Sibley