by Crocheting a cozy, stylish cardigan might seem intimidating if you’re new to the craft, but the granny stitch makes it entirely doable—even for beginners. Whether you’re crocheting for yourself, a loved one, or for sale, a Granny Stitch Crochet Cardigan is a timeless, versatile piece that works across seasons and sizes.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your own beginner-friendly granny stitch cardigan, with instructions adaptable to all body types and sizes.
What is a Granny Stitch?
The granny stitch is one of the most popular and recognizable crochet stitches. Typically made using double crochet (dc) stitches in clusters of three, it creates a beautifully lacy, textured fabric that’s perfect for garments, especially cardigans.
It’s repetitive, rhythmic, and easy to memorize—ideal for beginners who want a relaxing project that builds confidence.
❤️ Why Choose a Granny Stitch Cardigan?
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Beginner-friendly: Uses only basic stitches (chain and double crochet)
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Quick to make: Especially with worsted or bulky yarn
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Great stash buster: Use multiple colors or scraps for a unique look
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All-season wear: Lightweight yarn makes it breezy; heavier yarn makes it cozy
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Customizable: Adapt the pattern to fit any size or style preference
Materials Needed
Before starting your cardigan, gather the following materials:
Yarn
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Weight: Worsted weight (#4) or DK weight (#3) for a more drapey effect
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Type: Cotton for breathability or acrylic/wool blends for warmth
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Yardage (approximate):
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XS–S: 900–1100 yards
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M–L: 1200–1400 yards
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XL–2XL: 1500–1700 yards
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3XL–5XL: 1800–2200 yards
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Hook
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Size H/5.0 mm to J/6.0 mm depending on your yarn
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Always check gauge if you want the cardigan to fit accurately
Notions
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Scissors
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Tapestry needle
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Stitch markers
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Optional: Buttons, measuring tape
Sizing and Fit (All Sizes)
This pattern is based on rectangular construction, which makes it easy to adjust. You’ll create two rectangles (front panels) and one larger back panel, then seam the sides and add sleeves and borders.
To determine size:
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Measure your bust and desired cardigan length.
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Add 2–4 inches of ease for comfort.
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Your back panel width = half your bust + ease.
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Each front panel = 1/2 the width of the back panel.
For example:
| Size | Bust | Back Panel Width | Front Panel Width (each) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 34″ | 20″ | 10″ |
| M | 38″ | 22″ | 11″ |
| L | 42″ | 24″ | 12″ |
| XL | 46″ | 26″ | 13″ |
| 2XL | 50″ | 28″ | 14″ |
✨ Basic Granny Stitch Pattern
Let’s break it down:
Foundation Row:
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Chain a multiple of 3 + 2
Row 1:
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In 5th ch from hook, work 3 dc (1st granny cluster).
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Skip 2 ch, 3 dc in next ch. Repeat * across.
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End with 1 dc in last ch.
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Ch 3 and turn.
Row 2 and beyond:
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3 dc in each space between clusters.
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End with 1 dc in top of turning chain.
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Repeat rows until desired length.
Constructing the Cardigan
Step 1: Make Your Panels
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Back Panel:
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Chain to your measured width (multiple of 3 + 2).
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Work granny stitch rows until it reaches shoulder to hem length.
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Front Panels (2):
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Make 2 panels, half the width of the back panel.
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Same row count as the back panel.
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Step 2: Seam the Shoulders
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Lay the front panels on top of the back panel.
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Whip stitch or slip stitch the tops of the front panels to the back, leaving a space for the neck.
Step 3: Seam the Sides
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Fold the panels like a jacket.
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Seam the sides, leaving 6–9 inches unseamed at the top for armholes.
Adding Sleeves (Optional)
Sleeves are worked in the round from the armhole:
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Attach yarn at the bottom of the armhole.
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Work granny stitch clusters in rounds around the armhole.
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Continue working until you reach desired sleeve length.
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Optional: Decrease at wrist for tapered sleeves by skipping more stitches between clusters.
Adding a Border
Finish your cardigan with a border around the neckline and front edges:
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Attach yarn at the bottom corner.
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Work single crochet, half double crochet, or granny clusters evenly up the edge, around the neck, and down the other side.
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You can also add a button band by adding buttonholes every few inches on one side and sewing on buttons on the other.
Style & Customization Ideas
Color Options:
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Classic: Single color for a minimalist look
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Striped: Alternate colors every 2 rows
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Fade: Use a gradient yarn for a smooth color transition
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Scrappy: Use leftover yarns for a patchwork aesthetic
Length Options:
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Crop: 12–15 inches
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Regular: 20–25 inches
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Duster: 30–36 inches
Sleeve Options:
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Sleeveless (vest style)
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Short sleeves
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Bell sleeves
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Cuffed sleeves
Care Instructions
Most yarn labels will give cleaning instructions. In general:
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Cotton: Machine washable; lay flat to dry
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Acrylic: Machine washable and dryable
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Wool: Hand wash cold; lay flat to dry
Always block your cardigan to shape it nicely after finishing.
Helpful Tips for Beginners
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Practice the granny stitch first with a swatch to get comfortable.
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Use stitch markers to keep your panel edges even.
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Count your clusters every few rows to stay on track.
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Try on as you go, especially when seaming or adding sleeves.
Bonus: Free Sizing Formula
To make this cardigan without a written pattern, use this universal formula:
This method gives you freedom to crochet without strict rules, and it’s beginner-proof!
Selling & Gifting Ideas
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These cardigans make wonderful handmade gifts for birthdays, holidays, and baby showers (mini versions!).
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You can also sell them at craft markets or Etsy.
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Make sure to tag them with yarn care instructions and sizing info.
Conclusion
The Granny Stitch Crochet Cardigan is a perfect blend of tradition and modern comfort. Its beginner-friendly nature, versatile fit, and customizable style make it an excellent first garment project for anyone new to crochet. Once you’ve made one, you’ll likely want to make more—for every season, every friend, and every mood!
With just yarn, a hook, and a bit of patience, you can create a cardigan that’s not only cozy but uniquely you.
Video tutorial:
