I’m excited to share this roundup of crochet patterns for chunky crochet cardigans.
These patterns are a celebration of coziness!
Chunky crochet cardigans are perfect for chilly days, enveloping you in a cocoon of warmth and style.
In this collection, I’ve gathered a selection of patterns that cater to crocheters of all skill levels and offer something for every taste and preference.
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As you explore the patterns, you’ll find different options for fits and styles.
With these patterns you’ll create a chunky cardigan that wraps you in oversized comfort!
Chunky Crochet Cardigans: What You Need To Know
Chunky crochet cardigans are cozy and stylish garments made using bulky/chunky or super bulky yarn and larger crochet hooks. Known for their warmth and comfort, these cardis are perfect for chilly weather.
Here’s more information to help you decide whether a chunky cardigan is the right project for you:
Quick to Make: Because of the thicker yarn and larger hooks, these projects work up quickly compared to cardigans made with finer yarn. This makes them a great choice if you want to complete a project relatively fast.
Texture and Stitch Patterns: Chunky yarn allows for the creation of rich textures and stitch patterns. Various stitch combinations are used to create visually interesting designs, including cables, bobbles, and textured stitches.
Versatile Styles: they come in various styles, from oversized and slouchy to more fitted and tailored. The choice of pattern and stitch pattern can greatly influence the overall style of the cardigan.
Colour Choices: Chunky yarns are available in a wide range of colours, allowing you to choose a colour palette that matches your personal style and preference. You can opt for classic neutrals, bold and vibrant hues, or even trendy ombré or self-striping yarns.
Cardigan Length: Chunky crochet cardigans can be made in different lengths, including short bolero-style cardigans, mid-length cardigans, or long, duster-style cardigans. The length of the cardigan can impact its versatility and suitability for various occasions.
Button or Closure Options: Chunky cardigans can be open-front with no closures, have buttons, toggles, or other types of closures. The choice of closure can affect the overall look and functionality of the cardigan.
Warmth and Comfort: Chunky yarn creates a dense and warm fabric, making chunky crochet cardigans perfect for keeping you cozy during colder seasons. The thickness of the yarn provides excellent insulation against the cold.
Chunky crochet cardigans are not only practical for staying warm but also offer a great opportunity to showcase your crochet skills.
Whether you prefer a classic, timeless design or a modern, trendy look, the patterns in this roundup are versatile and provide comfort, making them a favourite for many crocheters during the colder months.
Top Tips for Crocheting a Chunky Cardigan
Here are my 9 top tips for success:
- Gauge: ALWAYS check the gauge before starting your cardigan. Due to the thickness of chunky yarn, small variations in gauge can significantly affect the size of your finished garment. Adjust your hook size if needed to achieve the correct gauge as specified in the pattern.
- Yarn Selection: Choose your chunky yarn wisely. While chunky yarns are generally thicker, they can still vary in texture, fiber content, and warmth. Be sure to select a yarn that matches the look and feel you want for your cardigan, whether it’s a soft, cozy acrylic or a warm, natural wool.
- Stitch Visibility: Keep in mind that chunky yarn can make fine details in stitch patterns less noticeable than with thinner yarn. Opt for stitch patterns and textures that are suited to the bulkier nature of the yarn. Simple stitch patterns, like single crochet or half-double crochet, often work best (the majority of the patterns today use US half double crochet/ UK half treble crochet).
- Drape and Fit: Consider how the thickness of the yarn will affect the drape and fit of your cardigan. Chunky yarns can create a more structured and bulky look, so think about whether you want your cardigan to have a relaxed or more tailored fit.
- Seaming and Joining: Pay attention to the seams and joins in your cardigan. Chunky yarn can be a bit more challenging to seam neatly because of its thickness. Practice seaming techniques until you’re happy with how the seams look and more importantly, how they feel.
- Sleeve Ease: When creating sleeves for your chunky cardigan, check your pattern for added ease. Chunky yarn can make sleeves feel bulkier, so make sure they have enough room for ease of movement.
- Button and Closure Placement: If your cardigan pattern has closures like buttons or toggles, carefully follow the instructions. Chunky cardigans often have a sturdier fabric, which can affect how buttons and closures function. Test the placement before sewing them on permanently.
- Weight and Bulk: Keep in mind that chunky cardigans can be quite heavy and bulky, especially when using large quantities of thick yarn. This can affect how the cardigan drapes and how it feels when worn. Consider the weight of your finished project if you plan to wear it for extended periods.
- Blocking and Care: Chunky yarn can be less forgiving when it comes to blocking. Be gentle when blocking to avoid stretching or damaging the yarn. Check the care instructions for your chosen yarn, as some chunky yarns may require special care.
By taking into account these tips, you can be successful in creating a chunky cardigan that not only keeps you snug but also showcases your crochet skills and style preferences.
Chunky Crochet Cardigan Patterns
Click on the numbered link to go directly to the chunky cardigan 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.
| US Crochet Terms | UK Crochet Terms |
|---|---|
| single crochet (sc) | double crochet (dc) |
| half double crochet (hdc) | half treble crochet (htr) |
| double crochet (dc) | treble crochet (tr) |
| treble (tr) | double treble (dtr) |
| double treble (dtr) | triple treble (trtr) |
Happy crocheting!
1. Chunky Cocoon Cardigan Pattern
Designed with comfort in mind, my cocoon cardigan is a project that works up in no time.
The pattern is the perfect blend of simplicity and style, making it ideal whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter looking for a quick and satisfying make.
The chunky yarn adds warmth and also gives the cardigan a beautiful texture. Wrap yourself in this cardigan on a chilly evening and you’ll feel just how comfortable it really is. It feels like a warm hug!
- Recommended yarn: Papatya Batik Chunky
- Crochet stitches: half treble crochet (htr – UK), half double crochet (hdc – US), front loop only, back loop onlyu
- Length of cardigan: from 69 cm to 83.5cm
As well as the free pattern on the numbered link above, this pattern is available to buy on Etsy.
2. Chunky Belted Crochet Cardigan
If you’re not so keen on wearing super long cardigans, this gorgeous belted chunky crochet cardigan falls just over your hips. I don’t know about you, but I’m not a fan of sweaters or cardigans hanging below the hem of my coat!
This cardigan is constructed with the back and two fronts which are then seamed before working the sleeves directly into the armholes in rounds.
Worked in an easy stitch repeat, this pattern is written for sizes XS to 4X.
- Recommended yarn: Premier Yarns Serenity Chunky
- Crochet stitches: double crochet (US) / treble crochet (UK)
- Length of cardigan: 24” to 26”
The shape and belt placement of this garment are very flattering making this chunky cardi suitable for all body shapes.
This pattern is available to buy on Etsy.
3. The Wilderness Cape
Worked from the top down with a round yoke, this chunky cardi is fastened with one button at the neck. The hood and tassels are crocheted separately and sewn on.
The bottom of the hem is pulled in to create a balloon shape to match the sleeves, but you can work the hem without cinching it in to create a more traditional swing style cape.
If you would like to make your cape longer, the pattern includes instructions for where you need to work the extra rows.
- Recommended yarn: Cascade Yarns Ecological Wool
- Crochet stitches: half double crochet/extended half double crochet (US) / half treble crochet/extended half treble crochet (UK)
- Length of cardigan: cropped
If you prefer to work from a PDF, this pattern is available to buy on Etsy.
Wear this cardi over a sweater instead of a coat and you’ll stay toasty warm.
4. Chunky Cocoon Cardigan Pattern
This oversized cardigan pattern is perfect for learning simple sweater construction.
Working up quickly using super soft and chunky yarn, perfect if you’re in a hurry to get cozy this winter.
- Recommended yarn: 800-1350 yards Charisma or Bulky (5) yarn of choice
- Crochet stitches: sc – single crochet, hdc – half double crochet, dc – double crochet, tr – treble crochet, dcv-st – double crochet v-stitch, scv-st – single crochet v-stitch
- Sizes: S / M: 30 – 38” bust, L / 1XL: 40 – 46” bust, 2XL / 3XL: 48 – 54” bust, 4XL / 5XL: 56 – 62” bust
Wrap up in warmth and elegance with your cocoon cardi worked from this paid crochet pattern.
5. Chunky Striped Cardigan Pattern
This cozy oversized cardigan is crocheted in crushed velvet yarn. The way the colour changes happen gradually, making a beautiful transition from dark to light.
Constructed by working the back panel and then continuing to work the front panel, the sleeves are crocheted separately.
- Recommended yarn: Bernat Crushed Velvet Yarn US and Canada / UK
- Crochet stitches: dc = double crochet, fpdc = front post double crochet, bpdc = back post double crochet
- Length of cardigan: mid-bottom
If you prefer to work from a PDF ad free, this pattern is available to purchase on Etsy.
If you haven’t crocheted a cardi before, this free pattern is the perfect place to start.
6. Comfort and Joy Cardigan
This super-chunky, oversized, top-down raglan crochet cardigan pattern has the option to add pockets and buttons.
Starting with a simple rectangular yoke which is then split at the underarm to create the sleeves and body, there’s very little sewing needed for this crochet project.
- Recommended yarn: category #6 yarn Lionbrand Hometown USA / super chunky yarn
- Crochet stitches: beginner friendly crochet cardigan pattern using (US) single crochet and chains for the body and sleeves, and half double crochet for the hem and cuffs.
- Available in sizes XS to 3XL
This is a paid pattern available on Etsy.
If you’re not a fan of sewing seams like me! the raglan style is for you.
7. Cozy Oversized Crochet Cardigan
Create your own oversized cozy cardigan with this beginner-friendly pattern.
The back and front is worked in one piece which I think often works well if you’re using stripes or self-striping yarn. Yes, asymmetrical blocks of colour work too but I’ve got to admit I love symmetry!
If you prefer a closure for your cardigan, I would suggest crocheting a belt that you can tie. Simply chain to the length you want and work a few rows of single or double crochet to the thickness you prefer.
- Recommended yarn: category #6 bulky yarn Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick or Lion Brand Color Made Easy
- Crochet stitches: US sc – single crochet, dc – double crochet
- Sizes: XS to 4X
Free to view (with ads) on the link above, this pattern is available as a PDF on Etsy.
This cardi is designed to be long like a “coat-igan” to keep you cozy as the days get colder.
8. Chunky Cardigan Crochet Pattern
If you’re looking for a pattern with a difference, I think you’ll love this one! The textured leaf detail on the sleeves, hem and pockets makes this design unique. The leaves have written and chart instruction in this paid pattern.
Available for sizes XS to 5X.
- Recommended yarn: Hobbii Umami OR Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick
- Crochet stitches: US double crochet
- Length of Cardigan: XS: 73 cm / 28.75” , S / M: 77 cm / 30.25” , L / XL: length 82 cm / 32.25” , 2XL / 3XL: 86 cm / 34” , 4XL / 5XL: length 91 cm / 36”
9. Crochet Hoodie Pattern
This beginner crochet hoodie is super warm and quick to make.
I love the oversized hood and somewhere to keep your hands warm 🙂
Crocheted in separate rectangular panels for the front; back; sleeves; hood and pockets, the pattern includes clear written and assembly instructions.
Available for sizes Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large
- Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Yarn Wool Ease Thick & Quick super bulky #6 yarn
- Crochet stitches: US sc single crochet, sc flo – single crochet through the front loop only, sc2tog flo – single crochet two together through the front loops only (decrease), BPsc – back post single crochet, FPsc – front post single crochet
- Length of cardigan: S – 23”, M – 25”, L – 27”, XL – 29”
Free on the link above, you can also purchase a PDF from Etsy.
As well as keeping you toasty warm out and about, I think this cardi would work well when you’re snuggled up reading or streaming your favourite movies or series.
10. Chunky V-Neck Button Crochet Cardigan
All of the chunky crochet cardigans I’ve shared so far are either open fronted or tied with a belt. I want to give you the option of different designs in this round-up and this buttoned-up cardigan has a v-neck.
Crocheted lengthways in one piece for the front and back (including the ribbed hem) reduces the amount of sewing/assembly overall. The button band is crocheted separately and sewn on. I used this construction in my Selene cardigan pattern. For me it reduced the problem of either not picking up enough stitches and making the front of the cardigan stretch or the alternative, picking up too many stitches and causing ruffles.
As well as the free written pattern, you’ll be able to follow a video tutorial directly in the pattern.
- Recommended yarn: Billow or Lion Brand Scarfie category #5 weight
- Crochet stitches: US SC = Single Crochet, HDC = Half Double Crochet, FLO = Front Loop, BLO = Back Loop
- Length of cardigan in cm: 40(40, 42, 44, 46)(48, 50, 52, 54)
If you prefer to work from a PDF on your device or print out a copy, this pattern is available to buy on Etsy.
This is a straightforward make and a garment you’ll love to wear.
11. Chunky Crochet Cocoon Cardigan Pattern
Constructed from a simple rectangle, this oversized crochet cardigan is a fab project for beginners. There’s no shaping, increasing or decreasing with this pattern.
The pattern includes diagrams to show you where to fold, work the collar and add the pockets. There’s also a link to a video tutorial.
- Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Hue & Me
- Crochet stitches: US sc – single crochet, dc – double crochet. fpdc – front post double crochet
- Length of sweater: S/M: 30.5”, L/XL: 33”, 2XL/3XL: 35.5”
You can print this pattern or follow on your device (without ads) by downloading a PDF on Etsy.
I always say rectangles are such a versatile shape in crochet and this project is such a fab example of this!
12. Chunky Crochet Bomber Cardigan
The oversized fit and open stitches in this pattern work really well together to create a comfy and modern crochet cardigan you’ll be wearing again and again.
The front and back panels are crocheted in rows lengthways meaning the foundation chain runs the length of the of the jacket, not the width. Vertical pockets are hidden along the side of the body but don’t worry if you’re not sure on the pockets. The designer has included instructions for leaving out but there’s also a video tutorial you can follow.
- Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick super bulky #6 yarn
- Crochet stitches: US SC = Single Crochet, HDC = Half Double Crochet, HDC2tog = Half Double Crochet 2 Stitches Together, DC = Double Crochet, FpDC = Front Post Double Crochet, BpDC = Back Post Double Crochet, FLO = Front Loop, BLO = Back Loop
- Length of cardigan: 50(50, 52, 52, 55, 55, 58) cm
This pattern is available to buy on Etsy.
13. Crochet Bobble Cardigan
Do you find that standard size shop bought cardigans often don’t fit you? Yep, me too! This easy crochet chunky cardigan is made-to-measure ensuring you have the perfect fit.
And just check out those bobbles! Worked in super bulky yarn they give the sleeves a fabulous texture and make the overall design unique.
Follow along with the video tutorial.
14. Boho Crochet Hoodie
Kit out the whole family for your days out and festival events with this fab chunky boho long cardigan.
The hoodie pattern is unisex and looks great in stripes, block, yarn cakes and marble colours. The jacket features ribbed edging, oversized hood and longline length.
The written pattern is written for children and adults (from 12months to adult 3X)
- Recommended yarn: James C Brett Marble Chunky
- Crochet stitches: US half double crochet (hdc)
- Length of cardigan:
The body is made in one piece from bottom to top with the hood and sleeves sewn to the body and then finished off with easy edging.
If you’re not sure this is part of your crochet skills yet, following along with the video tutorial will give you confidence.
15. Easy Crochet Cardigan
This cardigan is a really easy make, perfect for beginners and using chunky yarn, it’s super quick too.
You also have the option to add some pockets to this oversized cardigan.
Crocheted in one piece for the back and the fronts, you then fold the fronts over the back and sew the shoulders together before sewing in the sleeves. There’s a diagram on the written pattern that will make it clear.
- Recommended yarn: Stylecraft Chunky
- Crochet stitches: US double crochet, front post and back post double crochet
- Length of cardigan: from 56 cm for the smallest size through to 63cm
If you prefer to work from a printed version, you can buy this pattern on Etsy.
16. Crochet Cardigan Pattern
If you prefer a chunky collar and front ribbing on your cardigan, you’ll love wearing this one!
It’s constructed with 5 separate pieces which are then sewn together with the collar added afterwards.
- Recommended yarn: Red heart hygge #5 bulky weight yarn (if it’s difficult to get hold of, browse this list of suitable substitutes)
- Crochet stitches: US half double crochet / UK half treble crochet
- Length of cardigan: from 25.71” for the smallest size through to 29.14”
This pattern is also available as a PDF on Etsy.
This free pattern is written for sizes XS to 2X and includes photos and links to video tutorials if you need help.
17. Oversized Crochet Cardigan
With its wonderful repetitive stitch, you’ll be lulled into relaxation when you’re working on this chunky oversized cardigan. It’s an easy, and quick project!
I don’t think a belt would work with this super bulky yarn but if you want buttons they can easily be added with this oversized fit.
- Recommended yarn: super bulky
- Sizes: XS through to 4X
Instructions are very clear on this paid pattern with added pictures and diagrams to help you.
18. Velvet Cardigan
Crocheted in a velvet yarn that is soft and has a beautiful shine, this oversized crochet cardigan drapes beautifully and is the perfect wear for any season.
The cardigan works up quickly, is easy to construct, and is so versatile it will look beautiful layered over jeans, leggings, or your favourite lounge wear!
- Recommended yarn: Bernat Velvet #5 bulky/chunky weight
- Crochet stitches: US single crochet, half double crochet
- Length of cardigan: 27” for all sizes
This pattern is very beginner friendly (it’s so easy!). Following the written instructions alongside the video tutorial will lead you to success.
Related Crochet Cardigan Patterns
- Featuring a stunning granny square motif on the back, this versatile crochet shrug pattern is an easy project.
- With a one-row repeat, this seamless cardigan is an easy project. You’ll enjoy the freedom of choosing the length to suit your personal style.
- 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
- Worked in 7 rectangles, the Selene long cardigan looks great worn with a dress or t-shirt and jeans. You’ll find different designs in this collection of free long cardigan patterns.
- 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.
- Looking for simple but stylish? You’ll love this cocoon cardigan.
- Planning your summer makes? Try this lacy summer cardigan. 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
I hope these patterns have inspired you to explore. Happy crocheting!