15+ Free Crochet Sweater Patterns for Beginners

Today I’m exploring a range of easy crochet sweater patterns that will not only keep you warm but showcase your growing skills.

The importance of tension and gauge

Everyone crochets with a slightly different tension (the tightness or looseness of stitches). Your tension will be different from mine.

DON’T SKIP crocheting a swatch.  This is so IMPORTANT because it is needed to check your tension. 

Creating a swatch allows you to check your gauge, which is the number of stitches and rows per inch/cm in your crochet work. Matching the pattern’s gauge is crucial to ensure that your finished sweater will have the correct size and fit.

Each pattern will tell you what size your gauge should be. 

Your swatch will tell you if you need to change your hook or the weight of the yarn.

If your stitches are too tight, your sweater might turn out smaller than intended; if they’re too loose, it could be larger. A swatch helps you make adjustments before committing to the entire project. You don’t want to finish your sweater and then realise it doesn’t fit you!

Make crocheting a swatch the first thing you do before attempting any pattern where tension is critical.

Crocheting a swatch is also an opportunity for you to practice the pattern stitches and techniques before starting the main project. This can be particularly helpful if the pattern involves complex stitch patterns or new techniques.

Your swatch is a small upfront investment of time that can save you a lot of frustration and disappointment later on in your project! Your finished sweater will match the pattern’s specifications and it will fit you.

Crochet Sweater Patterns

Click on the numbered link to go to the pattern.

The majority of these jumper patterns are written in US Terminology.

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

1. Moon Shimmer Hexagon Sweater

This crochet hexagon sweater pattern will show you how to crochet a one-of-a-kind sweater that will keep you cozy and fashionable through Autumn/Fall, Winter and Spring.

The option to add a hood can be a practical and stylish addition to the sweater, providing extra warmth and coziness!

• Sizes: S to 3X
• Length: from 59 cm for the smallest size to 64cm
• Recommended yarn: Cygnet Pato Baby DK

A repeat of rounds/rows of treble crochet (US double crochet) and V-stitch clusters form the stitch pattern. 

2. Fruitdrop Crochet Sweater

Incredibly versatile, this easy crochet sweater can be worn as a stylish layering piece during chilly evenings or as a statement garment for festivals and boho-themed events.

The front and back are worked from the bottom up in the chevron pattern with minimal shaping for the neckline.

3 rows of 3 granny squares with extensions are worked for the sleeves.

The combination of these techniques allows for an interplay of textures and patterns, adding an extra layer of excitement to this project.

Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or just starting your crochet journey, this free crochet pattern will guide you through every step, ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable project.

• Sizes: XS to 5X
• Length: cropped, standard and tunic
• Recommended yarn: Cicibebe Batik

If you prefer to work from a PDF, this pattern is available to buy on Etsy and Ravelry.

3.Easy Crochet Sweater (Mystic Garden)

My relaxed fit beginner crochet jumper pattern is worked in treble crochet (US double crochet) with minimal shaping for the armholes and neckline making it suitable for beginners.

The front and back use self-striping yarn (less ends to sew in!) while the sleeves, cuffs and bottom rib are worked in a block of colour to match the colour palette from the body of the sweater.

You can choose to crochet your sweater in one colour.

The front and back are crocheted separately, seamed together and then the sleeves are worked directly into the armhole stitches.

• Instructions are for sizes XS, S, M, L, XL, 2X.
• Yarn weight: chunky (606 – 1158 metres)

4. Crochet Jumper Pattern : Le Jardin

Worked in one piece (no sewing seams!), this crochet jumper uses basic crochet stitches making it a great project for confident beginners.

Using chunky yarn and a 6mm hook makes this a quick make too.

This crochet sweater pattern is written in UK and US crochet terms.

• Instructions are included for XS/S, M, L, XL, 2/3XL, 4/5XL
• Recommended yarn:  King Cole Big Value Tonal in Blackcurrant / Cygnet Chunky in gold (you can substitute any chunky yarn but you MUST crochet your swatch first and if you need to, adjust your hook size to meet the gauge)

This pattern is also available as a PDF on Etsy.

5. Granny Square Sweater

This is a simple crochet sweater pattern free that you’ll be proud to wear and show off.  

Using DK yarn and a 4.5mm crochet hook, you’ll crochet 4 granny squares which are then seamed together to create this stunning crochet box sweater.

Prefer a longer sweater?  add rounds of granny stitch until you reach the length you want.

You won’t be confused between UK and US terms.  This free pattern has instructions written in both.

• The free Rainbow Granny Square sweater crochet pattern comes in sizes XS/S, M/L, XL and 2X/3X
• Recommended yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners Colour Lab (600g)

This pattern is also available to buy as a PDF on Etsy.

Granny squares are popular for festivals. You’ll find other sweater designs and granny square projects in this collection of boho crochet patterns.

6. Stepping Stones Pullover

This free colour block crochet jumper pattern is easy to crochet and will have you right on trend.

The stitches used in this pattern are (US terms) half double crochet, single crochet and single crochet through back loop only. 

The half double crochet and crocheting through back loop only will be great additions to your stitch library.

With only one row of decrease for the armholes and neckline, you’ll have no problems shaping this sweater.

• Size ranges from XS/S to 4/5XL.
• Recommended yarn: Caron Simply Soft Tweeds (2 x 300g in each colour for the smallest size up to 600g each colour for the largest)

You will also need a 5mm crochet hook and stich markers for this easy crochet sweater.

7. Rochester Pullover free beginner crochet sweater

This free sweater crochet pattern is perfect for beginners.  There is minimal shaping through the body for a relaxed and casual fit.

I’m loving the ribbing accents on the collar and the cuffs, finishing off this crochet sweater with style.

The pattern is written in US terms and uses the extended single crochet stitch.

• The size ranges from S to 3XL.
• Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Touch of Alpaca (600 – 1000g)

You will need 4mm and 5mm crochet hooks, tape measure and 3 locking stitch markers.

8. The Brooklyn Chunky Cropped Sweater

This easy crochet jumper uses chunky yarn meaning it will work up really quickly.

Crocheted from the top down, you’ll be able to try the sweater on as you go and it will be easy to adapt the pattern to the length of the sleeves to fit you. 

If you don’t want a cropped sweater, it’s easy to change the length too – just simply add rounds before the ribbing begins.

Crocheting in rounds means there’s minimal sewing needed (sewing is my least favourite part of crocheting!).

The pattern is written in US terms and uses single and double crochet.

You will need a 9mm crochet hook and 4 stitch markers.

Tip: If you get stuck, reading through the comments might help you.

New crochet stitches to add to your library :  DC2tog = Double Crochet 2 Stitches Together; FpDC = Front Post Double Crochet; BpDC = Back Post Double Crochet

• Size ranges from S to 3XL.
• Recommended Yarn: Lion Brand Heartland Thick & Quick (142g per ball) (discontinued) – find a yarn substitute on yarnsub.com (5 – 9 skeins)

This pattern is also available as a PDF on Etsy.

9. Retro Stripes Sweater

Stripey sweaters are back for this season and this free crochet pattern will have you bang on trend.

A beginner crochet sweater, the body is worked up in one piece and completely made up of half double crochets.

The pattern starts by crocheting the bottom ribbing, then working into the long side of the ribbing you’ll crochet the body (adding chains for the neck opening in the middle) then adding the other side’s ribbing.

If you haven’t done colour work before, this is a fab introduction to changing colours. 

• Sizes available (S, M, L, XL, 2X)
• Recommended yarn: Red Heart Hygge Charm – if you can’t get hold of this yarn, check on yarnsub for alternatives (1075 yards – 1700 yards)

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

10. Easy Classic Crochet Sweater

Follow the instructions in this video to crochet a sweater using the side-to-side construction method.

Measuring as you go along will ensure the perfect fit for you!

You can also purchase this pattern on Etsy.  The written pattern would be useful for using alongside the video.

Yarn recommended: Caron One Pound   (find a list of substitutes on yarnsub)

11. Granny Squares Sweater Crochet Pattern

This sweater is easy to make and perfect if you’re an advanced beginner.

The free pattern shows you how to make a granny square sweater.

Using the Starburst/Sunburst granny square, you’ll crochet 4 rounds of the granny square before joining together with the ‘join as you go’ method for the front and back. 

If you feel you’re not ready for this method, don’t worry, you can complete round 5 and then sew your squares together.

The sleeves use double crochet (UK treble crochet) and increases are simple at the beginning of a row.

This is the perfect project for when you only have a limited amount of time spare or take with you while travelling/on your holiday. 

Another great thing about this crochet sweater is it’s a fabulous stash buster – use the yarn you have in your stash to keep your costs down!

• Yarn weight:  DK
• Yarn recommended: Stylecraft Special DK and Cygnet DK

If you prefer working from a PDF, you can buy this pattern on Etsy.

If you enjoy working with granny squares, have a browse of these granny square projects and patterns

12. Basic V Neck Sweater Free Crochet Pattern

This simple V-Neck crochet sweater is flattering and comfy to wear.

The front and back are worked as one piece with chains giving the neck space.  Once crocheted, you’ll fold in half from side-to-side which gives the sweater the V neckline.

The sleeves are worked by picking up the stitches from the armhole.

This free pattern uses the Trinity stitch (great to have a new stitch added to your library for you to use on future projects).  There is a link for a tutorial.

• Yarn weight: Aran
• Recommended yarn:  Brava Worsted

This pattern is available to purchase on Etsy.

13. Beginner Crochet Sweater

This easy crochet jumper is worked in basic crochet stitches.

Half double crochet (UK half treble crochet) with rows of crossed half double crochet gives this sweater a gorgeous texture.

The sweater body is worked in one piece (less sewing!).

You will start with the back ribbing, then crochet the back, followed by shaping the shoulders and neck line, next you’ll crochet the front body and then lastly the ribbing.

I love the neckline!

• Available in sizes S, M, L, XL
• Yarn weight: Aran (1310 – 2185 yards)
• Recommended yarn: Caron Simply Soft  /  Red Heart Super Saver

14. Luv Puf Sweater

I love how the different colour bands of stripes are separated by puff stitches in this easy crochet sweater.  Doesn’t it look fab!

The stripes are quite broad too so would suit all body types.

This sweater is worked in 2 pieces (front and back) which are seamed together and the sleeves joined by working into the armhole stitches.

My Mystic Garden sweater’s sleeves are also working into the stitches of the armhole.  From my experience, this construction is a lot stronger than crocheting the sleeves separately and then having to sew them in place.

As well as the written pattern, there’s also a step-by-step video tutorial to guide you.

• This free crochet pattern is available in size S-5X.
• Recommended yarn: Lion Brand Superwash Merino (if you can’t get hold of this yarn, yarnsub recommended Marriner’s Merino as a good match).

This pattern is also available to buy as a PDF on Etsy.

15. Foliage Crochet Sweater

I just love how well the colours on this easy crochet jumper look together.

The front and back panels are worked, bottom-up, in rows and then seamed together. Sleeves are worked, bottom-up, in rounds.

• This pattern uses Cascade 220 Superwash which is 100% wool in DK/Light Worsted.

Swap it for a cotton blend in pastels or bright colours to wear in the spring and summer (you MUST check your gauge though).

• This free crochet sweater pattern is available in sizes XS to 2XL.

16. How to Crochet a Sweater

This easy V-neck sweater has detailed photos to guide you for each step of the construction.

Crocheted in lemon peel stitch (a mix between single crochets and double crochets or if you’re in the UK, double and treble crochets), this crocheted pullover has fab texture.

It is crocheted in three pieces: one body piece and two sleeves. You’ll only have to sew the sides and add a neckline.

• Available in sizes XS (S, M, L, XL, 2XL)

• Recommended yarn Lion Brand LB Collection Merino Yak Alpaca

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

Happy Hooking!

Related Crochet Cardigan Patterns

• Made-to-measure, you’ll crochet two hexagons using a combination of stitches (not granny stitch!) in the Ocean Hues cardigan.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

The sections below go deeper into the designs in this roundup as well as my tips and answers to questions you may have.

13 Tips for Crocheting your Sweater

Here are my top tips for crocheting your sweater:

Patterns will become easier the more you practice.

Follow the instructions in these free crochet sweater patterns and you’ll be successful and gain confidence.

How the sweaters are constructed

All of the free patterns in this crochet sweater collection use basic crochet stitches and require minimal shaping making them ideal for beginners.

• Granny squares (in the round)
• Separate pieces for the front, back, sleeves and seaming together
• From the top down Raglan style (in the round)
• Side to side
• Front and back worked as one with chains creating space for the neck opening
• Sleeves worked directly into the armhole
• Sleeves crocheted separately and sewn into place

Sweater Design Elements

You’ll find a variety of designs in this collection:

• 4 continuous granny squares for the front, back and sleeves with added length crocheted in granny stitch
• smaller granny squares joined together for the front and back with the sleeves crocheted in treble crochet (US double crochet)
• variegated yarn for the front and back with the sleeves and ribbing crocheted in a block of colour matched with the colour palette
• colour block using 3 colours
• horizontal stripes
• cropped sweater
• V-Neck sweater
• boxy sweater
• drop shoulder sweater

Crochet Sweater questions and answers

If you have questions about crocheting a sweater, you might find the answers in this section.

If there’s something you would like to know that I haven’t included, please let me know.

Can a beginner crochet a sweater?

The patterns in this collection of crochet sweaters are all focused on step-by-step instructions aimed at a beginner level.

With minimal shaping and easy construction, if you’re a beginner you will be able to crochet these sweaters.

How hard is it to crochet a sweater?

It isn’t hard to crochet a sweater. 

Sweaters are made up of basic shapes such as two rectangles for the front and back or a larger rectangle with chains for the neck opening. 

Sleeves can be cone shape, rectangular or triangular.  They can be worked directly into the armhole stitches and worked in the round or crocheted separately in rows and sewn into place.

Patterns will give you the exact number of stitches you need for your size, when and how to increase or decrease and how to sew the seams together.

How many hours does it take to crochet a sweater?

How many hours it takes to crochet a sweater depends on the size of your sweater, the yarn weight you’re using, how intricate the pattern is and how experienced you are as a crocheter.

As an average guide, it takes between 20 – 30 hours to crochet a sweater.

How much yarn do I need to crochet a sweater?

Use these guidelines to help you work out how much yarn you’ll need.

Example: if you are crocheting a sweater in chunky yarn you will need approximately 869 – 1029 meters /  950 – 1125 yards

What yarn is best for crochet sweaters?

The most common yarn used for crochet sweaters is acrylic.  It is the most durable and is perfect for the wear and washing crochet sweaters are put through.

Wool is another good yarn for sweaters but be careful of allergies and how it feels against your skin – I find wool garments too itchy and they make me feel super-hot!

Blended yarns often work well. 

Yarns used in this collection of free crochet sweater patterns include:

• acrylic
• acrylic and viscose
• acrylic and metallic
• acrylic and alpaca
• wool
• merino

Which crochet stitch is best for sweater?

If you’re crocheting a sweater to wear in the warmer weather, an open and lacy crochet stitch would work best for keeping you cool.

Denser crochet stitches such as double crochet, treble crochet, half double crochet and half treble crochet work best for sweaters you’re going to be wearing in the colder months.