ClothingFree Pattern

Classic Granny Square Cardigan

This cardigan is the perfect bridge project between accessories and garments: you're still making simple granny squares, just a lot of them, then seaming them into sleeves and a body. The drape is relaxed and oversized, so gauge doesn't need to be exact.

DifficultyIntermediate

Time15–20 hours

Hook Size5.5mm (I-9)

Yarn WeightWorsted (Medium, #4)

1200–1600 yds worsted weight yarn (main color)
200 yds worsted weight yarn (2 accent colors)
5.5mm crochet hook
Tapestry needle
Scissors
Measuring tape
6 stitch markers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1
Make your granny squares
Crochet 42 granny squares (adjust count to your size) using 3 color rounds, finishing every square with 2 rounds in your main color so they read as one fabric.
Tip: Weave in ends as you go — you will thank yourself later when 42 squares need joining.
2
Block the squares
Wet-block or steam-block every square to the same measurement so the seams line up cleanly.
3
Lay out the pattern
Arrange squares into two rectangles for the fronts and one larger rectangle for the back, leaving armhole gaps according to your size.
4
Join with slip stitch or single crochet
Join squares edge to edge using slip stitch through both loops for an invisible seam, or single crochet for a decorative ridge.
5
Seam shoulders and sides
Sew shoulder seams first, then side seams from hem to armhole, leaving the top open for sleeves.
6
Add sleeves and border
Join squares into two sleeve panels, seam into tubes, then set into the armholes. Finish the whole cardigan with 3 rounds of single crochet around the edges, collar and cuffs.
Tip: A single row of crab stitch (reverse single crochet) on the front edges gives a clean, corded finish.

Helpful Tips

Alternate two skeins every 2 rows to avoid visible dye-lot banding in the main color.
Lay squares out on the floor before joining — it is much easier to fix a color mistake now than after seaming.