Cozy Cardi: Easy Crochet Sweater for Beginners

If you’ve ever wanted an easy, beginner-friendly crochet sweater, the Cozy Cardi is just what you need. This beautiful sweater is perfect for anyone learning crochet, or experienced hands who want a relaxing, satisfying project. The Cozy Cardi takes the basic granny square style and transforms it into a cozy cardigan you’ll wear all year. All you need is a love for double crochets, a few skeins of your favorite yarn, and a bit of time to join everything together.

Working in double crochet stitches the whole way, you’ll make a big granny square, fold it with purpose, and join it to create cute sleeves, a neat collar, and a comfy cuff. In this guide, I walk you through every step, no matter your skill level. So, grab your favorite yarn, clear off some space, and crochet along with me!

Materials Needed for Your Cozy Cardi

Here's what I used and recommend for making the Cozy Cardi:

• Yarn: Ice Yarns Savor, a 4 weight worsted acrylic (also known as 10 ply in Australia)
  • One–color version: 750 grams (26.46 ounces), 1236 meters (1,352 yards)
  • Three–color version: 250 grams (8.82 ounces), 412 meters (451 yards) per color
  • Adjust yarn amounts for larger or smaller sizes. For most sizes, two skeins of each color should be plenty.
• Hook Size: A 6.5 mm crochet hook is recommended, but a 6 mm works if needed.
• Needle: For sewing in ends (sharp tip needles sew in tails easily).
• Scissors: A good pair for clean cuts.
• Stitch Markers: For marking corners and sleeves (very helpful for assembly).
• Optional: Written pattern available if you want to follow along with written instructions on Secret Yarnery’s website or check out other cozy sweaters in the collection.

Tip: All my patterns are written in plain English, so don’t worry about deciphering special lingo if you haven’t read many patterns.

Understanding the Pattern Basics

Here’s what makes this Easy Crochet Sweater for Beginners so manageable:

1. All double crochets: The pattern uses double crochet stitches for nearly all rounds, making it a relaxing, repetitive process.
2. Just one granny square: The whole sweater starts with a large square, folded and seamed for sleeves and body.
3. No garment experience required: I guide you step by step, so even if this is your first ever sweater, you're in good hands.

If you want more simple crochet sweater ideas (some made entirely from four granny squares), there are more patterns waiting for you.

Starting Your Granny Square: The Magic Ring

The magic ring is the perfect way to start your granny square. It gives a neat, tight center with no gap. If you’re new to this technique, don’t be afraid—it becomes second nature with a couple of tries!

Here’s how I make a magic ring:

1. Drape the yarn tail across your non-dominant hand, holding it on your ring finger.
2. Wrap the yarn around two fingers, creating an X on your palm, then once more around a third finger.
3. Pinch where the strands cross with your thumb, flip your hand to see a short tail and a longer working strand.
4. With the hook facing down, slide it under the short tail, grab the working strand, and pull up a loop.
5. Pinch under the hook to keep the loop steady, yarn over, and pull through the loop. There’s your starting ring!

From here, chain 1 (this doesn't count as a stitch, just adds a bit of height), then work 15 double crochets into the center of the ring, working over the yarn tail as you go. Once all your double crochets are in place, you’ll cinch the ring slightly, not pulling too tight yet, and get ready to join the round.

I find breaking progress into steps like this makes a big difference for beginners. You’ll be surprised at how natural it feels.

Securing and Weaving in the Tail

Finishing round 1 is about securing your work and getting a clean foundation:

• Slip stitch to the top of the first real double crochet to join.
• Chain 1 to secure the end and cut the yarn, leaving a tail long enough to sew in later.
• Gently pull the yarn tail to close the center of the magic ring (but not too tight yet).
• Flip your work to the back (the wrong side).
• Weave in the tail, running it through several stitches in the same direction the yarn is coming from. Then double back once for extra security.

A sharp needle makes this step much easier, as it slips through the yarn without snagging. Details like these keep your piece from coming undone later.

Round 2: Color Changes and Double Crochet Clusters

Next up, I join my next color for a stacked, multi-tone look (if you want a single color, repeat with the same yarn). Here’s how the round goes:

1. Insert your hook into the stitch after the join. Loop the new color on your hook.
2. Slip stitch with both strands to join, then chain 1. This chain 1 does count as the start of your cluster for this round.
3. In the same stitch, start another double crochet. You'll crochet two double crochets together (dc2tog) to make a cluster.

How to create a dc2tog cluster:

• Yarn over, insert your hook, yarn over, pull through, yarn over, pull through two loops (stop before finishing).
• Repeat once (so you have three loops), then yarn over and pull through all three loops.
• Chain 1, move to the next stitch, and repeat.

Continue making dc2tog clusters, chain 1 between each, around the circle. You want a total of 16 clusters. To keep things even, work the last two clusters (15 and 16) on each side of the join area. Finish the round by slip stitching to the top of your cluster, chain 1, and cut the yarn.

Round 3: Bigger Clusters and More Color

Bring in your next color (or keep it simple with the same shade). Here’s what’s different now:

1. Join your yarn into any space between clusters with a slip stitch.
2. Chain 1 as your first double crochet.
3. In that same space, start a 3 double crochet cluster (leave all but the last loops on the hook), so there are four loops, then pull through all four.
4. Chain 2, then move to the next space.

You’ll work dc4tog clusters (4 double crochets closed together with a chain 2 in between) in each space around. When you reach a previous yarn tail, work over it to help hide it and keep things neat. Slip stitch and finish as you did before.

Tip: Keeping track of cluster numbers per round will help your square stay flat and even.

Round 4: Creating Square Corners – Time for Treble Crochets

Now it’s time for the granny square to grow corners and take shape. This round uses treble crochets for soft, roomy corners.

• Join a new color in the fourth space before the last join. This covers the yarn tail under a corner and keeps everything tidy.
• Chain 3 (counts as your first treble crochet), then add two more treble crochets in that same space.
• In the next space, do three double crochets.
• Third space: three half double crochets.
• Fourth space: three double crochets again.

Now you’re at a corner, so work three treble crochets, chain 2, three more treble crochets into the same space. Slide the stitches back to keep the corner flat.

Repeat this pattern for each side: three double crochets, three half double crochets, three double crochets, then a corner. When you reach where you started, finish off the last corner and join.

This round creates a classic granny square with gentle, even corners and solid sides.

Round 5: Solid Granny Square – Smoothing the Sides

The square’s really looking like a sweater foundation now. Here’s what’s next:

1. Join your yarn in any corner space. Slip stitch, then chain 2 (counts as the first double crochet).
2. In that corner space, add another double crochet.
3. Start your solid sides: one double crochet into each stitch all the way along. You’re not working into spaces now—just into the tops of the stitches.
4. Corners are made with two double crochets, chain 2, two double crochets into the next corner space.
5. Be sure to find that first stitch under the corner stitches so your sides don’t shrink.

Work around the square. At chain spaces, use the visible gap or loop as your entry point. This helps keep everything tidy and aligned. When you get back to the start, slip stitch to join, chain 1, and cut the yarn.

Rounds 6 and Beyond: Making the Sweater to Fit

From this point, the cozy granny square just keeps growing. Here’s what I repeat:

• Always join in a new corner to spread tails out for easier weaving.
• Chain 2 in each corner, then double crochet into every stitch along each side.
• Corners always get two double crochets, chain 2, two double crochets.

To check your size:
After each few rounds, fold your square in half with the pretty flower motif in the center. If the square reaches across your body or from shoulder to shoulder, it’s likely big enough. If not, keep adding rounds.

Armhole and Body Marking:

• Fold the square in half, matching corners.
• Use stitch markers to pin sides. Leave the top of each side open for the sleeves (23 stitches is a comfortable average, but adjust as you like).
• Mark the number of stitches left open for your sleeves and write it down—this keeps both sides even.

This system makes the sweater super flexible and lets you try on as you go.

Joining Sides Using Continuous Join-As-You-Go

The magic of this project is in how it comes together—folded, marked, and joined for sleeves and body in a smooth process.

• Fold your big granny square and line up the sides, securing them with stitch markers.
• Mark out your armholes carefully so both sleeves are the same size.
• Join yarn to the corner space just before the armhole opening.
• Chain 2, double crochet along the pinned edge until you reach the stitch marker at the armhole.

Now start the join-as-you-go:

• Work one double crochet into the current side, then slip stitch into the lined-up stitch on the other side.
• Alternate: double crochet into your working side, slip stitch up above. These make a series of “letter I’s” running along the join.
• Always keep the next stitches lined up. If your counts feel off, keep going—things often even out right at the end.

Work your way to the armhole, then stop. This forms one side and sleeve. Repeat on the other side. Bring both sides together by joining the bottom edges (right up to where you started).

Joining the Second Side and Sleeve

Now on the other side, you’ll repeat the join:

• Start at the armhole’s matching corner.
• Line everything up and use your stitch markers for help.
• Slip stitch to join sides as before: double crochet into your side, slip stitch into the opposite side.
• Check your stitch markers as you go—these keep things aligned.
• Work into the corners as usual: two double crochets, slip stitches, and chains at the corners for shape.

When you finish joining both sleeves and the side seams, the Cozy Cardi really starts to look like a sweater.

Tidying Up the Sweater Body and Edges

At each corner and join:

• Work final adjustments using dc2tog clusters to fill in any pointy or uneven areas. This keeps the edge smooth and wearable.
• Slip stitch to join, chain 1, and cut the yarn.
• Pull the end through the loop and snug it down to lock everything in place.
• Weave in any extra tails using a sharp tip needle for a clean finish.

Tip: Take your time weaving ends. Following the path of existing stitches keeps them hidden and secure.

Creating and Finishing the Sleeves

It’s time to add sleeves, starting at the underarm. I begin my joins away from the neck so seams don’t irritate when worn.

• Join yarn at the sleeve edge and chain 1.
• Start a dc2tog cluster at the edge, chain 1, skip the next stitch, and repeat clusters all the way around.
• When you reach the join, work an extra cluster if needed to avoid gaps.

Next, transition to dc3tog clusters for the cuff:

• Start in a space (not directly on the last join), chain 1, then work clusters of three double crochets together, chain 1 in each space.
• This gentle taper helps the cuff sit snug against the wrist.

Finish off with a round of single crochet—a single crochet into each stitch and space. This smooths out the edge, helps stop curling, and gives a soft finish. Seal off the round with an invisible join: cut the yarn, pull it through, and thread it back through the top of the last single crochet to mimic the look of a stitched loop.

Weave in the tail from the wrong side, following the path of the stitches. Avoid pulling the join too tight to maintain some stretch. Complete the same steps for the other sleeve.

If you love these simple garment projects, check out the Easiest Crochet Sweater in a Day.

Crocheting the Collar

Finishing details make the Cozy Cardi shine. The collar uses the same lovely clusters as the cuffs for a polished look:

• Join your yarn anywhere along the bottom edge, away from the neckline for a neat finish.
• Chain 1, then work dc2tog clusters around the collar with chain 1 between each.
• Work dc3tog clusters into the spaces on the next round, again chaining 1 between.
• End with a round of single crochet using the “back loop only” method. This flattens the collar and keeps it from curling.

For the final join, use the invisible finish again: bring the yarn through the top of the first single crochet, then back down into the last for an unbroken look.

Weave in the tail on the inside, making sure your collar is stretchy and soft.

Weaving in Ends and Final Touches

For the best finish, always take a moment to weave in each tail.

• Thread the tail onto a needle (I switch between blunt and sharp tip depending on yarn thickness).
• Follow the stitches on the wrong side of your work. Mimic the path of the original stitches for invisibility.
• Tuck the ends into the thick parts of the fabric, especially using color changes to hide them.

If you noticed any little gaps or loose areas, a few tiny stitches can close them up. The goal is for those ends to disappear completely, so your Cozy Cardi looks good inside and out.

Left Handed?

More Inspiration from The Secret Yarnery

The Cozy Cardi is just one path to a fun, wearable, easy crochet sweater for beginners. If you’re looking for more ideas, the Secret Yarnery is packed with beginner-friendly patterns and tutorials. Whether you prefer quick projects or more involved sweaters, there’s always something new.

Want to inspire your next project? See a selection of fun crochet projects for 2025, perfect for all skill levels.

Wrap Up – Stay Cozy and Keep Crocheting!

Finishing a hand-crocheted sweater is something special. The Cozy Cardi is proof you don’t need fancy skills or years of experience—just follow the simple steps, enjoy the feel of yarn in your hands, and create something you’ll reach for again and again.

Stay hooked, and remember, if you enjoyed this free tutorial, be sure to check out more Cozy Sweater Collection patterns, join my community, and subscribe for new releases. Let's keep making yarn magic together!

Stay Hooked!

FAQs 

1. What yarn is best for the Cozy Cardi?
A soft, worsted weight (4) acrylic yarn is ideal. The original uses Ice Yarns Savor, but any similar weight yarn will work. Choose something comfy you enjoy working with.

2. How much yarn do I need?
About 750g (1236m) for a one-color version, or 250g (412m) per color for a three-color style. Adjust up or down for larger or smaller sizes.

3. Can total beginners make this sweater?
Yes! If you know double crochet, you can make this cardigan. The pattern avoids tricky shaping and complex stitches.

4. How do I adjust the size?
Keep adding rounds to your granny square until it fits your body. Try it on as you go by folding the square and seeing if it reaches across your body and shoulders.

5. What if my square isn't completely even?
That’s okay! Most slight unevenness smooths out after joining and wearing. Blocking your work can help flatten the square, too.

6. Can I make the sleeves longer or shorter?
Yes. Add more rounds for longer sleeves, or fewer for shorter ones. Try the sweater on to check length before finishing the cuffs.

7. Is the magic ring required?
It’s highly recommended for a neat start and closed center, but you can start with a chain circle if you prefer.

8. How do I keep my ends neat?
Weave in each tail securely with a sharp needle, following the path of the existing stitches. It hides the ends and prevents unraveling.

Christa Patel is the creative force behind Secret Yarnery. With over a decade of experience teaching crochet online, she makes every project accessible for beginners and fun for experienced crafters. Christa’s patterns focus on clear steps, simple stitches, and joyful colors, so anyone can create stunning pieces from the comfort of home.

Her video tutorials, blog, and written patterns are trusted by crocheters worldwide. She believes in making crochet friendly and stress-free, teaching in plain English without confusing terms. Whether you are starting your first granny square or seeking new inspiration, Christa’s upbeat approach and practical tips help you finish projects you can be proud of.

Find more of Christa’s patterns, tutorials, and crochet community at Secret Yarnery or on her YouTube channel.