20+ Free Long Crochet Cardigan Patterns That Never Go Out of Style

Today I’m excited to be sharing a selection of long crochet cardigan patterns. These patterns are a celebration of style and comfort!

I think the extended length of longer cardigans are truly special. They drape so gracefully over a variety of outfits! The perfect wearable for every season, offering added warmth and sophistication, in this collection I’ve focused on long cardigans that are suitable to wear during Autumn/Fall, Winter and Spring.

Exploring these patterns you will discover a range of options for stitch patterns, textures, and design elements.

Whether you prefer classic simplicity, bohemian flair, or modern chic, you’ll find a cardigan pattern in this collection that resonates with your unique style.

Before we dive into the crochet patterns, let’s dig in to what you need to know.

Long Crochet Cardigans: What You Need To Know

Long crochet cardigans are versatile and stylish garments that typically extend below the hips or even down to the knees. They offer warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance, making them a popular choice for various seasons and occasions. Here’s more information about long crochet cardigans:

Long crochet cardigans offer both comfort and style, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe. Whether you’re crafting a cardigan for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, the extended length provides a timeless and elegant look that can be cherished for years to come.

Long Crochet Cardigan Patterns

Click on the numbered link to go directly to the pattern.

Most patterns are written in US crochet terms.

For my UK crocheters, the table below is a conversion of basic crochet stitches from US to UK.

Happy crocheting!

1. Easy Seamless Crochet Cardigan

With a one-row repeat, stitching up my seamless cardigan is easy. Not only is the pattern easy to follow, but it also offers you the freedom to tailor the length of your cardigan to suit your personal style.

Crocheted in the Mini Bean stitch gives this cardi a lovely texture and is visually appealing too.

Yarn and Hook:

• DK Yarn (15% wool / 85% acrylic – or substitute yarn that meets gauge); 1801, (1988, 2238, 2422, 2708, 2960) yds
• 4.5mm / 7  Crochet Hook (body)
• 3.5mm / E4 Crochet Hook (ribbed cuffs, hem and edging)

This pattern is available in PDF format on Etsy.

2. Crochet Cocoon Cardigan

The chunky yarn and stitch I used in this free crochet pattern not only adds warmth but also gives the cardigan a beautiful texture, making it the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Imagine wrapping yourself in the soft embrace of this cocoon cardigan on a chilly evening – it really is comfortable and feels like a warm hug!

Yarn and Hook:

• Papatya Batik Chunky (color 110); 1177, (1344, 1514, 1668, 1828, 1989, 2190, 2395) yds
• 6mm / J10 crochet hook

Written for sizes S to 5X in both UK and US Crochet Terms.

This pattern is available as a PDF on Etsy and Ravelry.

3.Selene Crochet Cardigan

This free long cardigan crochet pattern will show you how to create a versatile and stylish open-front cardigan using simple rectangles.

I’ve written the pattern for sizes XS – 5X in both UK and US crochet terms.

The stitch pattern for the front and back is a 7-row repeat; 2 rows Iris stitch (shell), 2 rows treble crochet (UK) / double crochet (US), 1 row crossed stitches, 2 rows treble crochet (UK) / double crochet (US).

Yarn and hook:

• Sirdar Hayfield Sundance DK ;  4, (4, 5, 5, 6, 6, 7 ,7 ,8) balls or suitable substitute Rico Baby Cotton Soft DK
• 4mm crochet hook (front and back)  / 4.5mm crochet hook (sleeves)

The length of this long cardigan is from 63cm / 25” for XS to 68cm / 27” for the largest size.

4. Crochet Blanket Cardigan

This crochet blanket cardigan has a lovely drape.

Crocheted in half double crochet and constructed from 3 rectangles seamed together with the sleeves worked in the round, this is an easy project you’ll enjoy working on.

This style, also known as a waterfall cardigan, is the perfect wearable for layering up.

Yarn and hook:

• 6 skeins Lion Brand Jeans Yarn in Vintage / 2 skeins Lion Brand Jeans Yarn in Stovepipe
• US size J/10 crochet hook and US size K crochet hook

The back panel measures 32” long when hanging.  The designer gives advice on how to alter this to suit your height.

5. Caramel Fog Crochet Cardigan

This crochet cardigan pattern features textured puff sleeves, extra long length, and pockets.

Consisting of rectangles – 2 front panels and 1 back panel (worked separately in rows); the sleeves are worked in rounds directly onto the armhole. The edging, collar, and the 2 pockets are worked last.

The stitch pattern is an easy repeat – alternating one row of half double crochet and one row of double crochet throughout.

Rated as intermediate from the designer you’ll find plenty of photos and diagrams to guide you.

Yarn and Hook:

• DK or Worsted Weight/Aran yarn
• 5 mm crochet hook

The length of this cardigan measures from 27.5” for size small through to 29.25” for 5X. This relaxed and casual fit cardi is available to purchase on Etsy.

6. The EveryDay Hugs Cardigan

How cozy is this long cardigan!  You can almost feel how snug you’ll feel, easy to see why this one would be a favourite.

The Everyday Hugs Cardi is worked top down in the spider stitch (there’s a video tutorial and written pattern for this stitch).

The only sewing is for the shoulder seams so if you’re not a fan of sewing (like me!) this could be the perfect wearable to make.

You’ll need to know how to work in rows and rounds using single crochet, chains and half double crochet, make increases and decreases, work in the back loop only and work into row ends.

The designer has rated this pattern at advanced beginners/intermediate.

Yarn and hook:

• 1170 – 1920m of worsted weight / Aran Yarn
• 6mm crochet hook / 5.5mm (ribbed cuffs, button band and hem)

The pattern comes in 7 sizes from XS – 3XL with additional guidance for altering the body and sleeve length so you can easily adjust to get the exact fit for you.

This is a paid pattern.

7. Bookworm Cardigan

Being a bookworm myself I just HAD to share this long crochet cardigan with you!  Can you imagine snuggling up in your favourite reading space, lost in another world, wrapped up in this comfy cardi?  Yep, me too

This beginner-friendly cardigan is worked from the bottom up, splitting at the armholes to create the front panels and central back panel.  The panels are then seamed together at the shoulders and sleeves are crocheted onto the armholes and worked in decreasing rounds.

With only the shoulder seams to sew, this long cardi is perfect if sewing isn’t your thing.

Yarn and hook:

• Wool of the Andes Tweed (Weight: #4/Worsted 80% Peruvian Highland Wood, 20% Donegal Tweed –110 yards/50 grams)
• US Size I/9 5.50 mm crochet hook AND US Size H/8 5.00 mm crochet hook

The pattern comes in sizes XS to 5X and the length measures from 28” to 36”

Prefer working from a PDF?  This pattern is available to buy on Etsy.

8. Long Cardigan Crochet Pattern Ophelia

Perfect for cooler fall/autumnal days, the Ophelia long cardigan will keep you warm and cozy with its knee-length and puff sleeves.

Worked from the bottom up in one big panel combining back and front, the sleeves are worked separately and sewn onto the body.

Finally, you’ll work the front edging and collar as well as cuffs.

Yarn and hook:

• Wool of the Andes Bulky (100 g, 100% Superwash wool, 137 yd / 125 m).
• 9 mm / US M/N – 13 hook.

The easy colourwork in the colour block section gives this cardigan a unique design.

This is one cardigan that you’ll love to wear again and again. 

You can buy this pattern on Etsy.

9. Kimino Sleeve Crochet Cardigan

Made in one complete piece for the body, this long cardi is a great first garment project.

I think it has a lovely drape and works well layering over a casual outfit.  You’ll look stylish while keeping snug on those chilly days!

Yarn and hook:

• Category #4 light worsted weight cotton (Wool And The Gang Shiny Happy Cotton is recommended by the designer for the best results)
• Crochet Hook Size I-9 / 5.5 mm

If you’re ready to move on to making garments, give this one a try first to boost your confidence.

This pattern is available to purchase on Etsy.

10. Women’s Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Worked from the bottom up then split for front and back panels, this cardi has a mid-thigh length.

I really like the pockets on this design.  If you don’t want pockets, you don’t have to add them though!

This long cardigan crochet pattern includes instructions for making it easy to adjust the length – perfect if you’re shorter or taller!

Yarn and Hook:

• Worsted Weight / 4 / Yarn, (Lion Brand Touch of Alpaca is recommended by the designer)
• Crochet Hooks: K/10.⅚.50mm, J/10/6.00mm, H/8/5.00mm

Complete cardigan measurements and schematics are included as a bonus with the Ad-free PDF available on Etsy.

11.  The EveryDay Cardigan

Designed with a classic fit and 4-6” of positive ease, this might be the coziest cardigan you’ll ever make!

The pattern is easily adjustable for your preference of length, width and sleeve length. You’ll find comprehensive instructions in this paid pattern for you to easily alter for the fit that is perfect for you.

Yarn:

• Aran/Worsted Weight category #4

This paid pattern is easy to follow and works up beautifully.

12. Long Cardigan Pattern

If you haven’t crocheted a cardigan before, this would be another great pattern to start with.

Not only is the body worked in one panel making construction easy, this long cardigan uses basic crochet stitches with accompanying photos to show how to count rows. 

There are also two lengths to choose from – shorter or longer.

Yarn and Hook:

• Big Twist Soft yarn / worsted weight size 4 Medium weight yarn
• K (6.5mm) hook for the main body and H (5)mm hook for the ribbing. Use any size hook to attain gauge.

This free pattern comes in sizes S to 3X and the length measures Regular Version: 29.5 (29.5, 30.5) (31.5, 31.5, 31.5)” when worn  /  Long Version: 36 (36, 36) (37, 37, 37)” when worn

13. Long Crochet Cardigan

This long cardigan is constructed by crocheting 5 separate parts (back, front x 2, sleeves x 2) in single crochet and sewing them together.

The foundation chain is the length of the garment.  The basic crochet stitch makes it easy for you to change the length by using more (for longer length) or less (for shorter length) chains to suit your preference.

This design uses super bulky/super chunky #6 weight making it a quick make!

Yarn and Hook:

• Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick
• 10mm crochet hook

Prefer working from a PDF?  This cardigan pattern is available to purchase on Etsy.

14. Duster Cardigan

I’ve chosen to include this duster cardigan for two reasons 1) the two fronts and back are crocheted from side to side (not lengthways as most of these patterns are) and 2) those pockets!  If you love a generous sized pocket, this design is for you.

If you’re a beginner, this free pattern uses half double crochet (UK half treble) and with minimal shaping for the sleeves, it’s an easy cardigan for you to build your confidence with.

Yarn and Hook:

• Lion Brand Basic Stitch
• US Size J, 6.0 mm Crochet Hook

The pattern is written for sizes small to 3X with a length from 34.5” for the smallest size through to 44.5” for the largest.

This duster cardigan pattern is available to buy on Etsy.

15. Long Striped Crochet Cardigan

Who doesn’t like a stripey cardi!  They never go out of style.

With a simple, classic style and slouchy fit to be extra comfy, this free crochet pattern is an easy one-row repeat.

Crocheted in DK weight yarn, there’s plenty of drape and isn’t too heavy with the longer length.

The front and back is made all in one piece, starting from the bottom up, splitting at the armholes then folded and joined across the shoulders.

There’s less sewing with this cardigan as the sleeves are worked directly into the armholes in rounds.

Yarn and Hook:

• Stylecraft Special DK
• 5.5mm/I hook

This easy beginner-friendly cardigan pattern is available as a PDF on Etsy.

16.Long Chunky Crochet Cardigan

I feel snug just looking at this cardigan!

This long cardigan crochet pattern is constructed with two front panels, one back panel, and two sleeves which are then seamed together before sewing on the ribbed opening.  Add a couple of pockets and you have a cardigan that will become a layering wardrobe staple.

Yarn and Hook:

• Lion Brand Hue and Me / category 5 chunky/bulky weight
• 10mm crochet hook

First time crocheting a garment?  Follow the video tutorial (linked on the pattern) to guide you.

17.Boho Duster Cardigan

This duster cardigan is long and comfy.  And if you’re looking for something a bit different, this design has a flare at the hips and in the sleeves.

The designer has used a V Stitch which makes this a fast project. You’ll love the ease of this one-row repeat.

The back and fronts are crocheted separately in rows and then seamed at the shoulders and sides.  Stitches are picked up at the armhole to work the sleeves directly from the body to the wrist in rounds.

Yarn and Hook:

• Lion Brand Jeans Yarn – 500g for S/M, 600g for L/XL
• 5mm hook

Approximate finishes sizes: Length: S (43”) M (44.5”) L (46”) XL (47.5”)  /  Shoulder Width: S (18”) M (20”) L (22”) XL (24”)  /  Hip Width: S (22.5”) M (25”) L (27.5”) XL (30”)  /  Sleeves: S (19”) M (21”) L (23”) XL (25”)

Want to add a boho style to your wardrobe?  You’ll likely find inspiration in this collection of free boho crochet patterns.

18. Campside Cardi

I’ve chosen to include this free pattern in the roundup for those of you who like a split hem.  Some long cardigans hug your bottom giving an awkward shape, the split hem allows the fabric to drape beautifully AND moves when you do.

Crocheted in half double crochet (UK half treble) and single crochet (UK double), the body of this cardigan is crocheted flat in one piece making it a fab beginner-friendly pattern.

Yarn and Hook:

• Valley Yarns Superwash DK 10 (11, 12, 13, 14) (15, 17, 18, 19) Balls
• 6.5mm crochet hook

You do need to subscribe to unlock the written pattern for sizes S to 5X, but there is access to the video tutorial without signing up.

This pattern is also available to purchase on Etsy.

19. Slouchy Paisley Crochet Cardigan

Made in one piece with minimal seaming, this long cardi is a quick and easy project for beginners and experienced crocheters alike.

It’s oversized, cozy, and full of amazing texture with a little bit of boho flare!

The designer used worsted/Aran category 4 weight yarn from her stash giving an array of colours making this a budget-friendly make (obviously, you can crochet in one colour too).

Yarn and Hook:

• Length needed is from 1300 yds for size small through to 2550 yds for 5X
• 6.5 mm crochet hook

The length of this cardi ranges from 30” to 32”

You can buy this pattern on Etsy if you prefer working from a PDF.

20. Mountain Ridge Crochet Cardigan

If you’re wanting a heavier cardigan, this free pattern is for you.

I’ve used the Alpine stitch in my Noughts and Crosses blanket and I’ve also just finished crocheting a striped blanket made with this stitch.  It makes a lovely dense fabric with loads of texture and is more of a heavy weight.

This cardigan is made in 5 pieces – the back panel, two front panels and sleeves that are seamed together.  There is some shaping for the inset sleeves but plenty of photos so that you can see if you’ve done it right.

Yarn and Hook:

• Yarn Bee Soft & Sleek has been discontinued – a suitable substitute is Caron Simply Soft/ worsted weight yarn : 1,400 ( 1,500, 1,624, 1,750, 1,900, 2,100, 2,300, 2,550, 2,775) yards
• 5.5mm hook

Prefer working from a PDF?  Buy this pattern on Etsy.

21. Cabled Crochet Cardigan

This is the perfect pattern to challenge yourself.

You’ll still crochet the basic rectangular shapes (back, front panels and sleeves) but the challenge is in using intermediate crochet stitches to form the cables.

This crochet long cardigan pattern is written for sizes XXS to XXL and includes lots of helpful information to make your garment a success.  The video tutorial shows you how to complete the cable stitches in detail.

Yarn and Hook:

• DK category 3 yarn /  Bernat Softee Cotton Yarn
• H/8 or 5.00 mm hook

From neck to hem this cardigan is 32”/81cm in length for all sizes.

22. Oversized Ribbed Cardigan

This oversized cardigan features knit-like ribbing, slouchy balloon sleeves and a long length.  I love the large pockets of this design! 

The pattern consists of a one-row repeat of back loop double crochets for every 3 rows of back loop slip stitches making this a beginner-friendly garment.

Made up of three main pieces – body and two sleeves, along with two pockets, hemline and neckline ribbing. All the pieces are worked lengthways (the foundation chain is the length of the cardigan/sleeves not the width).

Yarn and Hook:

• Bulky/Chunky weight 5 yarn (the recommended yarn is discontinued – however a close match to substitute is Brava Bulky)

Pair this modern cardigan with jeans, dresses or leggings and layer up in style.

The written pattern is free on the numbered link above and you can also buy a PDF on Etsy.

23. Mosaic Crochet Cardigan

This mosaic crochet cardigan is worked in the overlay technique.  The overlay technique uses one colour per row and the rows are all worked on the right side using basic crochet stitches.

A video tutorial is included for all the important steps of this pattern.

If you’re a beginner, a great place to start is this collection of mosaic crochet patterns for beginners.

Yarn and Hook:

• Worsted weight yarn – Mary Maxim Natural Alpaca OR Brava Tweed
• Size G (4.0mm) & E (3.0mm) Hook

This crochet cardigan pattern comes in sizes extra small to 5X.

24.  Mosaic Cardigan Crochet Pattern

I wanted to give you a choice of mosaic techniques and this cardigan pattern is worked in inset mosaic crochet.  This is my favourite of the two techniques! 

Inset mosaic crochet is worked across four rows and the rows are turned. Two rows are worked with the same colour before changing colour to work the next two rows.

This crochet cardigan pattern features pockets, a belt and a ribbed collar.

Written in sizes XS to 5X, the designer has rated this pattern as intermediate.

Yarn and Hook:

• Comfy Worsted Weight #4
• US G+/7 (4.5mm) & US H/8 (5mm)

A video tutorial for medium size is available.

Related Crochet Cardigan Patterns

• Featuring a stunning granny square motif on the back, this versatile crochet shrug pattern is an easy project.
• Made-to-measure, you’ll crochet two hexagons using a combination of stitches (not granny stitch!) in the Ocean Hues cardigan.
• Two hexagons also look great as a pullover!  Check out the Moon Shimmer sweater pattern.
• The Stella granny square cardigan is worked in one large granny square for the back and smaller squares for the front.  This made-to-measure cardigan is an easy make.  You’ll find different designs and constructions in this collection of free granny square cardigans.
• My hooded granny stitch cardigan is the perfect garment to wear during spring and summer
• Looking for a quick make?  These chunky cardigan patterns could be just what you need.
• If you’re wondering what to do with those odds and ends in your yarn stash (and a blanket just isn’t grabbing your interest), have a browse of these of patchwork cardigan patterns.
• Planning your summer makes?  This bright striped cardigan or long-sleeved cardigan worked in open stitches could be just what you’re looking for.  Browse these free summer crochet cardigans for inspiration.
• Suitable for wearing all year, you’ll have this two-row repeat cardigan worked up in no time
• With a cute block of hearts worked in filet crochet, the Amelia short-sleeve cardigan just might become one of your favourites.

14 Top Tips for Crocheting a Long Cardigan

To finish off, here’s my top tips to help you towards success:

1. Choose the Right Yarn: Select a yarn that suits the style and season of your long cardigan. For a drapey and lightweight cardigan, consider a fingering or sport-weight yarn. For added warmth and structure, go for a worsted or chunky weight yarn. Ensure you have enough yarn in the same dye lot to complete your project.
2. Check Gauge: Always make a gauge swatch to ensure your stitches match the pattern’s gauge. Adjust your hook size if necessary to achieve the correct gauge. This step is crucial for the cardigan to fit properly.
3. Pattern Selection: Carefully choose a crochet pattern for your long cardigan. Look for patterns with clear instructions, detailed schematics, and photos. Pay attention to any special stitches or techniques required.
4. Customize the Fit: Consider your body measurements and the desired fit of your cardigan. Some patterns offer size customization, allowing you to adjust the length, sleeve length, and overall fit to your liking.
5. Stitch Markers: Use stitch markers to help you keep track of stitch counts, increases, and decreases. They can be especially useful when working on long cardigans.
6. Join Seamlessly: If your cardigan is worked in separate panels (fronts, back, and sleeves), strive to join the pieces seamlessly. Ensure the seams align properly to maintain a polished look.
7. Blocking: Blocking your cardigan is essential to shape the fabric, even out stitches, and ensure the right fit. Follow the blocking instructions provided in the pattern or consider wet blocking or steam blocking.
8. Sleeve Length: If you’re customizing the sleeve length, try on your cardigan as you go to determine the perfect length. Mark the desired stopping point for your sleeves to ensure they match.
9. Test the Fit: As you make progress on your cardigan, periodically try it on to check the fit and length. Adjust as needed to ensure it meets your expectations.
10. Weave in Ends Neatly: Carefully weave in all yarn ends neatly and securely to prevent them from unravelling. A well-finished project looks more professional.
11. Button Placement: If your cardigan has buttons, decide on the placement based on your body shape and comfort. Experiment with different buttonhole positions and the number of buttons to achieve the best look and fit.
12. Finishing Touches: Once your cardigan is complete, add any finishing touches such as edging, borders, or embellishments as specified in the pattern or to suit your personal style.
13. Care Instructions: Make a note of the care instructions for your cardigan based on the type of yarn you’ve used. Some yarns require special care, so it’s important to know how to maintain your finished project.
14. Enjoy the Process: Crocheting a long cardigan is a substantial project, so enjoy the process. Break it into manageable sections, take breaks when needed, and appreciate each step as much as the finished product.

I hope you’re feeling inspired! Happy crocheting.