Free Crochet Granny Square Motif Cardigan – Complete Pattern Guide

This stunning free crochet granny square motif cardigan is one of Marly Bird’s most beloved designs. The full pattern is available in three parts below — work through them at your own pace, no schedule required! The cardigan is made using a beautiful granny square motif joined as you go, and works up in three sizes (S/M, L/XL, 2X/3X). It’s the perfect intermediate crochet project.

Jump to your section:
→ Part 1: Construction
→ Part 2: Edging
→ Part 3: Collar & Finishing

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What is a Crochet Along (CAL):

Let’s start at the very beginning. If you aren’t familiar with the term ‘crochet along’ let me explain it to you. A crochet-along, or CAL, is a group of people coming together to crochet the same project in the same timeframe. The best part about the CALs that I run are that I have a special Facebook group (read more about this below) that is full of helpful crocheters working on the same project and there to offer support. If you are not able to start when I post the first section or if you are new to crochet and don’t feel as fast, you don’t have to worry. The content and pattern will always be available and is always FREE, thanks to Red Heart and Yarnspirations.

About the Granny Square Motif Cardigan:

This cardigan is made using Red Heart Unforgettable yarn — an incredibly soft yarn that comes in gorgeous colorways and makes this cardigan feel as cozy as it looks. The Granny Square Motif Cardigan looks like a traditional cardigan but is designed to be beautifully oversized. The pattern is broken into three parts; each part has written instructions and a video tutorial so you can follow along at your own pace.

Crochet Community:

Working on this cardigan? There’s a Facebook community group where crafters share progress photos, ask questions, and cheer each other on through the trickier parts of the pattern. It’s a wonderful resource — whether you’re just starting out or finishing up your collar.

Cardigan Introduction Video:

Supplies Needed:

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cardigan. Cardigan measures 48 (56, 64)” (122 (142, 163) cm) in width including cuffs, and 21½ (25, 28½)” (55 (64, 72) cm) in length, not including collar.

• RED HEART Unforgettable: 6 (9, 11) balls in color of your choice
• Susan Bates Crochet Hook: 4mm [US G-6]
• Yarn needle
• Split lock stitch markers (or you can make your own using the tutorial that I did)

The sample cardigan in the written pattern was made in the color 3968 Regatta. Any color of Unforgettable works for this sweater.

Pattern Sections:

The free pattern is available here on the blog in three parts. Each part includes written instructions and a video tutorial. Work through them at your own pace:

• Part 1: Construction — Learn the granny square motif and join-as-you-go technique to build the cardigan body
• Part 2: Edging — Add beautiful finished edges to the completed body
• Part 3: Collar & Finishing — Create the collar and complete your cardigan

Red Heart Marly's Granny Square Crochet Cardigan

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cardigan pattern free?

Yes! The Marly Bird Granny Square Motif Cardigan is a free pattern available right here on the blog in three parts. The full pattern is also available at Yarnspirations.

What skill level is this cardigan?

This is an intermediate crochet project. You should be comfortable with basic crochet stitches. The granny square motif is explained in detail in Part 1, and video tutorials are included to walk you through every step.

What yarn do I need?

The pattern calls for Red Heart Boutique Unforgettable yarn. You’ll need 6 (9, 11) balls depending on your size. The sample was made in Regatta 3968, but any colorway works beautifully.

What sizes does this pattern come in?

The cardigan pattern includes three sizes: S/M, L/XL, and 2X/3X. Need help choosing? There’s a size selection guide to help you pick the right fit.

Do I need to make the parts in order?

Yes — work through the parts in order: start with Part 1 (Construction), then Part 2 (Edging), and finish with Part 3 (Collar & Finishing). Take your time and go at your own pace!