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Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern

Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern
4.7★ Rating
12-15 Hours Time Needed
2.5K Made This
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Beginner Friendly Level

Perfect for those just starting their crochet journey, with clear instructions and simple techniques

⏱️

Multi-Day Project

A rewarding 12+ hour journey—perfect for dedicated crafters who love detailed work.

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Casual Chic

Relaxed style with a modern twist, perfect for everyday wear while maintaining that handcrafted uniqueness.

About This Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern

This pattern creates a cozy colorblock oversized cardigan worked as separate panels and sleeves that are joined together. It uses basic stitches like half double crochet and double crochet to make a structured, warm garment. You can customize sizes, colors, and colorblock layouts to create a truly unique piece.

Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

The instructions include cuff ribbing, panel shaping for a V-front, mattress stitch assembly, and clear photos to guide you. Ideal for those who want a playful, handmade wardrobe staple.

Why You'll Love This Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it encourages creativity through colorblocking while staying approachable for newer crocheters. I enjoy how easily you can play with color placement to create bold or subtle layouts. The construction—working panels separately and joining them—makes the assembly satisfying and customizable. I also love the finished drape and how comfortable the cardigan feels when made with worsted weight yarn.

Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern step 1 - construction progress Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love experimenting with color placement—try swapping the color blocks around to create asymmetrical or mirrored designs.

If you want a chunkier look, I often switch to a bulkier yarn and a larger hook to give the cardigan a more oversized, cozy feel.

For a mini or cropped version, shorten the front and back panel rows and adjust the ribbing height; this is an easy way to change the silhouette.

I sometimes add pockets by crocheting small rectangles and sewing them to the front panels before assembling the sides for a practical touch.

Embroidered details or appliques look great on this pattern; I add small motifs or initials to personalize finished pieces.

If you prefer a neater seam, I use a matching yarn for the mattress stitch; for a decorative contrast, choose a bright yarn for the joins instead.

Want a more fitted shape? Decrease the number of starting chains for the front panels and back panel equally and reduce increases accordingly.

Try different cuff styles—longer ribbing, folded cuffs, or even a simple single crochet edge—to change the vibe of the sleeve.

I also swap button styles and placements to change the cardigan's look from casual to more refined; large statement buttons are a favorite of mine.

Finally, mix fiber blends like cotton-acrylic for season-spanning wear or choose all-cotton for breathability in warmer climates.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Skipping stitch markers when shaping the V-front; place a stitch marker at the start row of your upper part to count accurately and avoid losing track of decreases. ✗ Not matching row counts between front and back panels; always count rows and adjust lengths so panels align before sewing to avoid mismatched seams. ✗ Changing colors without securing ends properly; secure and weave in color tails or leave long tails for weaving later to prevent loose ends. ✗ Incorrect cuff length or stretch because of tension differences; check cuff ribbing on your wrist and add or remove rows so it fits comfortably when stretched.

Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern

This beginner-friendly colorblock oversized cardigan pattern guides you through making vibrant panels, sleeves, and a cozy ribbed cuff. You can customize the color layout and size to suit your style and fit. The pattern uses simple stitches and clear step-by-step photos to help you succeed. Enjoy creating a warm, stylish cardigan that makes a bold handmade statement.

Beginner Friendly 12-15 Hours

Materials Needed for Colorblock Oversized Cardigan Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    Worsted weight yarn (5-ply milk cotton recommended: 80% cotton, 20% acrylic)
  • 02
    Size XS - approximately 400g total yarn
  • 03
    Size S - approximately 600g total yarn (example: 150g of each yarn color when using 4 colors)
  • 04
    Size M - approximately 800g total yarn
  • 05
    Size L - approximately 1,000g total yarn
  • 06
    Size XL - approximately 1,200g total yarn
  • 07
    Size XXL - approximately 1,400g total yarn
  • 08
    Multiple colors as desired for colorblock layout (equal amounts per color recommended for symmetrical blocks)

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size 5.0mm
  • 02
    Stitch markers
  • 03
    Tapestry needle
  • 04
    Scissors
  • 05
    Measuring tape
  • 06
    Buttons (optional)
  • 07
    Yarn for sewing (same or contrasting color)
  • 08
    Pins for assembly (optional)

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— CUSTOMIZING THE PATTERN :

Infos :

Because it is composed of basic stitches, the pattern is very easy to customize. Increase/decrease your number of chain stitches to achieve your desired width. When you customize the width, make sure that the total width of your front panels plus the width of your ribbing is equal to the total width of the back panel. Width of back panel = width of right + left front panels + width of ribbing. In this pattern, all ribbings have a width of 2 inches.

Info :

Add/subtract rows to achieve your desired length. When you customize the length, make sure that all front and back panels have the same number of rows.

Infos :

To change colors while doing the front and back panels: 1. After you secure the end of your row and fasten off the yarn, choose the next yarn color that you want to use and create a slip knot. 2. Insert the hook onto the stitch where you ended. Create a sl st. Ch2. Hdc on the same st. You can now start working on your row with your new yarn color.

Info :

To change colors while doing the sleeves: 1. After you secure the end of your row and fasten off the yarn, choose the next yarn color that you want to use and create a slip knot. 2. Insert the hook onto the stitch where you ended. Create a sl st, ch2, dc on the next st. You can now start working on your row with your new yarn color. Note: When you change color while doing the sleeves, always do the dc on the next st EXCEPT when you are working on the 1st row of the sleeve (row right after the cuff).

— FRONT PANELS :

Info :

For the front panels, you will start working from the bottom all the way up until you start doing the alternating decrease - non-decrease rows to create the V-shape on the upper half of the cardigan.

— FRONT PANEL 1 :

Using your color of choice:

Step 1 :

Chain 35 (39, 43, 47, 51, 55).

Step 2 :

Skip 2ch then hdc on the 3rd ch from the hook.

Step 3 :

Hdc on each ch until you reach the end of the row. You should have a total of 33 (37, 41, 45, 49, 53) hdcs.

Step 4 :

Ch 2. Flip your work then hdc on the same st. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row.

Step 5 :

Repeat Step 4 until you make a total of 24 (26, 28, 30, 32, 34) rows.

Info :

You will now start working on the upper part of the cardigan. To do the V-shape you will start making the alternating decrease – non-decrease rows.

Step 6 :

Ch 2. Flip your work then hdc on the same st. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the last 2 sts. For the last 2 sts, make an hdc2tog (decrease row).

Round :

To make an hdc2tog, yarn over, insert hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on the hook), yarn over, insert hook into the next stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop (5 loops on the hook), yarn over and pull through all 5 loops on the hook.

Step 7 :

Ch 2. Flip your work then hdc on the same st. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row (non-decrease row).

Step 8 :

Ch 2. Flip your work then make an hdc2tog on the first 2 sts. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row (decrease row).

Step 9 :

Repeat steps 7-8 until you make a total of 18 (20, 22, 24, 26, 28) rows starting from the row where you placed the stitch marker. Include the row with the stitch marker when counting.

Step 10 :

After the last hdc on the last row, ch 1 and fasten off. If you ended the row on the outer side of the panel (the one with a straight edge), leave a tail that is 3x longer than the length of the last row of the front panel. If you ended the row on the inner side of the panel (the one with the V-Shape), leave a tail long enough for weaving.

— FRONT PANEL 2 :

Using your color of choice: For the lower half of the front panel 2, repeat steps 1-5 of the front panel 1. You will now start working on the upper part of the cardigan. To do the V-shape you will start making the alternating decrease – non-decrease rows.

Step 6 :

Ch 1. Flip your work then make an hdc2tog on the first 2 sts. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row (decrease row).

Info :

Put a stitch marker on your hdc2tog to remind you which side you are going to do the hdc2tog. The stitch marker will also help you count the rows for the upper part of the cardigan.

Step 7 :

Ch 2. Flip your work then hdc on the same st. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row (non-decrease row).

Step 8 :

Ch 1. Flip your work then make an hdc2tog on the first 2 sts. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row (decrease row).

Step 9 :

Repeat steps 7-8 until you make a total of 18 (20, 22, 24, 26, 28) rows starting from the row where you placed the stitch marker. Include the row with the stitch marker when counting.

Step 10 :

After the last hdc on the last row, ch 1 and fasten off. If you ended the row on the outer side of the panel (the one with a straight edge), leave a tail that is 3x longer than the length of the last row of the front panel. If you ended the row on the inner side of the panel (the one with the V-Shape), leave a tail long enough for weaving.

Info :

NOTE: If you want to change the color of your front panels along the way, follow the instructions under Customizing the Pattern (page 4).

— SLEEVES :

Info :

For the sleeves, you will start working from the cuff ribbing then to the sleeve which is worked in rounds.

— CUFF RIBBING :

Using your color of choice:

Step 1 :

Chain 10.

Step 2 :

Hdc on the 3rd chain from the hook. Hdc until you reach the end of the row. You should now have a total of 8 hdcs.

Step 3 :

Ch2. Flip your work. Do a BLOhdc until you reach the end of the row. Make sure you have a total of 8 hdcs. To do a BLOhdc, make sure you insert your hdc on the back loop only of each st.

Step 4 :

Repeat step 3 until you make a total of 12 (13,14,15,16,17) rows or until the length of the cuff ribbing when stretched covers your entire wrist. Make sure you are comfortable. Some materials stretch less so you might want to add a few more rows.

Step 5 :

Now you will attach both ends of the cuff ribbing by doing a sl st on the inner loops only.

Step 6 :

Once you reach the end of the row, make 2sc on the 1st hdc post then 1 sc on the next hdc post.

Step 7 :

Place alternating 2sc then 1 sc on each of the next hdc posts until you reach the end. When you reach the end of the row, sl st on the st before the 1st sc that you created (see arrow in photo).

Info :

End of cuff ribbing.

Info :

If you are using the same yarn that you used for the cuff: Ch2 then dc on the same st (then go to Step 2). If you are using a color different from the cuff:

Step 1 :

Insert the hook into any st in the row. Sl st. Ch2 then dc on the same st.

Step 2 :

2dc on the next st. Do the alternating 1dc and 2dc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row. Sl st on the 1st dc of the row.

Step 3 :

Ch2. Dc on the next st then 2 dc on the next st.

Step 4 :

Do the alternating 1dc and 2dc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row. If you ended your row with 1dc, add 2dc on the same stitch where you placed the ch2 at the start of the row. Sl st on the 1st dc of the row. If you ended your row with 2dc, add 1dc on the same stitch where you placed the ch2 at the start of the row. Sl st on the 1st dc of the row.

Step 5 :

Ch2. DC on the same st. 1dc on each of the next 2 sts. Then 2dcs on the next st.

Step 6 :

Place 1dc into each of the next 3 sts then 2dcs on the next st. Repeat this step until you reach the end of the row. Sl st on the 1st dc of the row.

Step 7 :

Ch2. DC on the next st then 1 dc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of your row. Add another dc on the same stitch where you placed the ch2 at the start of the row. Sl st on the 1st dc of the row.

Step 8 :

Ch2. Dc on the same st then 1 dc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row. Sl st on the 1st dc of the row.

Step 9 :

Repeat steps 7-8 until you reach your desired sleeve length.

Step 10 :

After the last dc on the last row, ch 1, cut the yarn leaving a tail with a length that is equal to 4x the length of your front panels. You will use this tail later when you attach the different panels together. NOTE: If you want to change the color of your sleeves along the way, follow the instructions under Customizing the Pattern (page 5).

— BACK PANEL :

Info :

For the back panel, you can design it in two ways: 1. Horizontal layers of different colors – simple and perfect for beginners or for those who want minimal sewing. 2. Colorblock pattern – requires sewing using the mattress stitch or any other stitch you are comfortable with.

— DESIGN 1: Horizontal Layers :

NOTE: Identify how you want to layout your colors first, as well as how you want to match it with the front panels and sleeves. To make sure that the rows of the back panel will match with the rows of the front panel, start working from the bottom, all the way up.

Step 1 :

Chain 76 (84, 92, 100, 108, 116). Hdc on the 3rd chain from the hook. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row.

Step 2 :

Ch 2. Flip your work then hdc on the same st. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row.

Step 3 :

Repeat Step 2 until you reach your desired length for that color. Cut the yarn and fasten off.

Step 4 :

To start with your new color, create a slip knot with your new yarn color, sl st on the st where you ended.

Step 5 :

Ch2. Flip your work then hdc on the same st. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row.

Step 6 :

Repeat Step 5 until you reach your desired length for that color. Ch1, cut the yarn and fasten off. Do as many color changes as you want by repeating steps 4-6. Make sure that the total number of rows of the back panel match the total number of rows of your front panel.

— DESIGN 2: Colorblock Pattern :

For this design, you are basically doing the same steps for Design 1 except you create 2 separate back panels and sew them together.

Step 1 :

Chain 39 (43, 47, 51, 55, 59). Hdc on the 3rd chain from the hook. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row.

Step 2 :

Ch 2. Flip your work then hdc on the same st. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row.

Step 3 :

Repeat Step 2 until you reach your desired length for that color. Cut the yarn and fasten off.

Step 4 :

To start with your new color, create a slip knot with your new yarn color, sl st on the st where you ended.

Step 5 :

Ch2. Flip your work then hdc on the same st. Hdc on each of the next sts until you reach the end of the row.

Step 6 :

Repeat Step 5 until you reach your desired length for that color. Ch1, cut the yarn and fasten off. Do as many color changes as you want by repeating steps 4-6. Make sure that the total number of rows of the back panel match the total number of rows of your front panel. You have now created the other half of your back panel. To create the remaining half, repeat steps 1-6 using your other color choices. Once you have created the two halves of your back panel, you have to connect them using the mattress stitch.

— DOING THE MATTRESS STITCH :

Step 1 :

Cut a yarn with a length equal to 3x the length of your back panel.

Step 2 :

Using your tapestry needle, insert the yarn through the first stitch on the right panel from the bottom going up. Leave enough end (1-2 inches) for weaving.

Step 3 :

Then insert the yarn through the first stitch on the left panel from the bottom going up.

Step 4 :

To secure your first stitch, insert the yarn once more through the first stitch on the right panel from the bottom going up. Then to the first stitch on the left from the bottom going up. You can make a single knot to make sure that the ends are secured.

Info :

From this point forward, you will be working on the outermost post of each row (for rows where the outermost stitch is the ch2, work on the ch2). When inserting the needle, remember to always get at least 2 loops from the outermost post to make sure that the connection will be sturdy and secure.

Step 5 :

Insert the needle to the outermost post of the opposite panel, from the bottom going up, do the same to the other panel. Do this until you reach the post on the last row. Make sure that the rows match while you are stitching them together.

Note :

As you can see in the photo, the stitches should be invisible. Pull the thread slightly to make sure the stitches are sturdy but don't pull too tightly that your work might scrunch up.

Step 6 :

To end the mattress stitch, you will basically do the same steps as when you started. Insert the yarn through the first stitch on the right from the bottom going up. Insert the yarn through the first stitch on the left from the bottom going up. Repeat again to secure your last stitch. Make a single knot then fasten off.

— ATTACHING THE PANELS AND SLEEVES :

Attaching the front and back panels together :

You will start by attaching the top portion of the front panel to the top portion of the back panel through the mattress stitch. Make sure that the rows match. Work facing the correct side of the panels (correct side means the side that should be facing outside).

Step 1 :

Start sewing from the outer edge going to the middle part of the cardigan by doing steps 1-3 under the "Doing the Mattress Stitch" (page 16).

Step 2 :

For the next stitches, continue stitching from side to side, inserting from the bottom going up, until you reach the last stitch in your front panel.

Step 3 :

Make a single knot then fasten off. Do the same for the other side. You have now created the shoulder part of your cardigan!

Attaching the sleeve to the body :

For this part, you will use mattress stitch to attach the sleeves to the front and back panel then down to attach the sides of the cardigan. Work facing the correct side (correct side means the side that should be facing outside). Note: if you are more comfortable using sc or any other stitch when connecting panels together, you may also use those.

Step 1 :

Fold your sleeves in such a way that the seam will be positioned at the bottom (underarm area).

Step 2 :

Using your stitch markers, mark the topmost portion of the sleeves, then mark the rows in your front and back panel where you want to attach the sleeves. Make sure that the position in the front is similar to the position in the back panel. e.g. If you put the stitch marker on the 20th row of the front panel, make sure to also put the stitch marker on the 20th row of the back panel.

Step 3 :

Attach the sleeves to the front panel first by doing the mattress stitch. You will work from the underarm area all the way up to the shoulders. Since you left a long tail for the sleeves, you will start the mattress stitch by inserting the needle to the outermost post of your marked row in the front panel. Continue doing the mattress stitch all the way up. Take note of the topmost stitch of the sleeve where you placed the stitch marker. This stitch should be connected to the topmost portion of the cardigan.

Info :

Tip: When attaching the sleeve, 1 post in the panel is not necessarily equal to 1 stitch in the sleeve. Sometimes you have to make 2 mattress stitches in a single post in the front panel to match the stitches in the sleeves.

Assembly Instructions

  • Attach the top portion of each front panel to the top portion of the back panel using the mattress stitch, starting from the outer edge and sewing toward the middle until both shoulders are connected.
  • Fold each sleeve so the underarm seam is positioned at the bottom, mark the topmost portion, align with marked rows on front and back panels, then attach sleeves to the body with the mattress stitch from underarm to shoulder.
  • Connect the two halves of the back panel (for colorblock design) by aligning rows and joining them with the mattress stitch from bottom to top, securing beginning and end with a knot.
  • Sew side seams and sleeve seams by mattress stitch (or preferred join method), working from the underarm down to the hem to close the cardigan body sides.
  • Weave in all tails securely and trim ends; if you left long tails for attachment, use them to sew panels rather than additional yarn to ensure consistent color in joins.

Important Notes

  • 💡Use stitch markers to keep track of the start of the upper shaping and the topmost points for sleeve placement so panels align correctly.
  • 💡Maintain consistent tension throughout to ensure all panels and sleeves match in width and row count.
  • 💡When changing colors, secure ends and leave appropriate tail lengths for weaving or sewing to avoid visible loose ends.
  • 💡Measure cuff ribbing on your wrist and add or remove rows so the cuff stretches comfortably; different yarns may stretch differently.

This colorblock oversized cardigan pattern gives you freedom to play with bold or subtle palettes and create a unique wearable piece. Mix and match colors to reflect your style and personalize the layout for a one-of-a-kind cardigan. Whether you make a minimalist horizontal back or a vibrant colorblock design, the finished cardigan is cozy and statement-making. 🧶✨

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FAQs

What size will the finished piece be?

Final measurements depend on the size chosen and yarn tension; refer to the measurements table for front panel widths and lengths by size and measure your gauge before starting.

Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern?

Yes, but using a different yarn weight will change the finished size and drape; adjust hook size and chain counts to match the gauge or pick yarns with similar gauge.

Do I need prior crochet experience for this pattern?

This pattern is beginner friendly; basic knowledge of hdc, dc, working rows, and simple mattress stitch assembly is recommended for best results.

How long does this project typically take to complete?

Most crocheters complete this project in 12-15 hours across multiple sessions, depending on size, color changes, and assembly time.