The Crochet Colour Block Cardigan is a fun and quick crochet project! You’ll be surprised at how fast it works up.
The Colour Block Cardigan is worked in one piece from the top down in simple half-double crochet stitches, making it a great beginner sweater pattern. The raglan cardigan can easily be modified to any length, and the pattern works quickly with no seaming.
The best part is that it includes a hood, pockets and a belt, making it the perfect chilly January Cardigan. This cozy and modern sweater is crocheted in Woodlands by Mary Maxim in inclusive sizing from XS-5X. Step by Step YouTube tutorial included.
Table of Contents
Below you will find everything you need to crochet the Crochet Colour Block Cardigan, including the yarn, hook, materials, free written pattern for blog subscribers, pictures and a video tutorial. If you like this Free Crochet Colour Block Cardigan, please share!
Key Takeaways
- The Crochet Colour Block Cardigan is a quick and fun project, perfect for beginners.
- This cardigan features a top-down design, hood, pockets, and belt, all in inclusive sizing from XS to 5X.
- The pattern includes a free written version, a step-by-step video tutorial, and essential materials like yarn, hooks, and sizes needed.
- Customize the cardigan with Mary Maxim Woodlands yarn or suggested substitutes, ensuring a modern colour palette.
- Refer to the detailed instructions for construction, special stitches, and optional accessories like a belt and pockets.
Disclaimer
This post contains affiliate links for the items I used to crochet this pattern and clothing articles I have modelled at no cost to you. I make a small commission if you purchase through these links. This blog post also displays ads. The revenue I receive from Ads, and affiliate links, allows me to post this crochet pattern for free on my blog. I do so in good faith that you will not copy and paste this pattern or distribute it in any way. If you prefer not to view the pattern on the blog, you may purchase an AD-FREE digital PDF pattern in one of my pattern shops for a small fee. Whether you purchase this pattern or view the pattern on my blog, I greatly appreciate your support and readership.
Who doesn’t love a nice long cardigan?! Crochet this amazingly easy Colour Block Cardigan. This Free Crochet Cardigan pattern uses beginner-level stitches so that anyone can make one. Style the cardigan with a cute pair of jeans, a simple tank and a cute pair of shoes. This easy crochet cardigan will definitely be a fun and enjoyable late-night crochet project.
Video
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
How to crochet a hooded top-down Raglan Cardigan crochet pattern. Size medium tutorial.
Woodlands Worsted
Mary Maxim Woodlands (USA) (CDN) is an affordable Premium Acrylic and Alpaca Blend. I chose a very neutral colour palette for making this Crochet Cardigan Pattern. Woodlands from Mary Maxim has a nice selection of soft Modern colours, so customize the colours to your liking! If you are not finding any colours to suit your taste, I have provided a list of great substitutes down below!
Mary Maxim Woodlands (USA) (CDN)
#4 Worsted Weight Yarn
90% Acrylic, 10% Alpaca (200 yards / 100 grams)
Shown in Ecru, Beige Heather, Brown Heather, and Charcoal
XS (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X)
A Ecru – 3 (3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5)
B Beige Heather – 3 (3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5)
C Brown Heather – 2 (3, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4)
D Charcoal – 2 (2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 4)
Yarn Inspiration
Mary Maxim Woodlands (USA) (CDN) is an affordable and soft 90% acrylic and 10% Alpaca yarn. The hint of Alpaca makes it so luxurious, with a subtle fuzzy halo. I picked a soft and neutral palette for this crochet cardigan. You can choose from a variety of modern shades to suit your style.
If you prefer a 100% acrylic option, Mary Maxim Best Value (USA) (CDN) is a suitable alternative. I’ve selected additional yarns you may also enjoy. Lion Brand Touch of Alpaca is the same blend as Woodlands; simply Wool Worsted is 100% Wool, Brava Worsted is 100% Acrylic, and if you prefer cotton, Comfy Worsted is a great choice for garments.
Yarn Substitutes
Mary Maxim Best Value (USA) (CDN)
Crochet Hooks Needed
or size needed to obtain gauge
Hook case available HERE
Additional Supplies Needed for Crochet Hat
Yarn Needle
Scissors
Measuring Tape
Steamer
Helpful Resources
- Join our Facebook Crochet Community for pattern support and inspiration
- Subscribe on YouTube for hundreds of free tutorials
- Sign up for our newsletter and receive 40% off your first Ravelry purchase!
- Sign up for our YouTube Membership
Sizing
XS (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X)
Size Chart down below
Gauge
12 sts & 9 rows equal to 4″ with 5.5mm crochet hook in hdc
9 sts & 9 rows equal to 2″ with 5mm crochet hook in sc blo
Schematic Included When you Purchase the Beautifully Designed AD-FREE PDF
Construction
The Colour block Cardigan is a raglan top-down cardigan worked in rows. Once the yoke is complete, separate the body and sleeves. The body is continued in rows working the front and back in one piece. Join to the underarm and complete each sleeve in the round. Rounds are turned for a consistent ribbed pattern.
The hood is added to the yoke foundation row at the end. Finish with a belt and pockets. Oversized fit with 5-7″ positive ease. Size down for a smaller fit. Watch the tutorial here https://youtu.be/C3-Db_YG0GM
Special Stitches
Hdc2tog – Half Double Crochet 2 together – Yarn Over (YO), insert hook through indicated st and pull up a loop, insert hook in next st, pull up a loop, YO, pull through 4 loops on the hook.
Hdc3tog – Half Double Crochet 3 together – Yarn Over (YO), insert hook through indicated st and pull up a loop, insert hook in next 2 sts, pull up a loop, YO, pull through 5 loops on the hook.
Sc2tog – Single Crochet 2 together – Insert hook through indicated st and pull up a loop, insert hook in next st, pull up a loop, YO, pull through 3 loops on the hook.
FAQ & Terms
This pattern requires an intermediate skill level.
This pattern is professionally written in technical writing and tech edited for accuracy. You need to be familiar with technical repeats.
1. Affiliate Links & Ad Support
This post may contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, purchases made through these links may earn MJ’s Off The Hook Designs a small commission. The content on this site is supported by advertisements. By using this site, you agree not to circumvent, block, or tamper with these ads.
2. Copyright & Intellectual Property
All content on this blog, including free crochet patterns, instructions, charts, photos, videos, and written materials, is the property of MJ’s Off The Hook Designs Inc. and is protected under copyright and other intellectual property laws.
3. Personal Viewing & Use Only
Free patterns published on this site are provided for viewing only on this blog. You may not:
• Copy, download, print, take screenshots, or redistribute the pattern in any form (digital or physical) outside this blog.
• Post the pattern or instructions elsewhere online or share it publicly without written consent.
Even for “personal use,” the pattern must only be used while viewing this blog post with the ads intact. Tampering with, hiding, or removing ads while accessing the pattern is strictly prohibited.
4. Screenshots & Unauthorized Sharing
Screenshots or any other method of copying the pattern for offline use or redistribution is prohibited. Sharing patterns in forums, social media groups, or private messages without permission is also prohibited.
5. Legal Enforcement
Violation of these terms may constitute copyright infringement and could result in civil or criminal penalties under intellectual property laws. By using this pattern, you agree to comply fully with these terms.
6. Questions & Permissions
For questions about these terms or for permission to use or share patterns outside of these rules, please contact MJ’s Off The Hook Designs Inc. in writing.
Thank you for respecting our work and supporting MJ’s Off The Hook Designs.
Yes! You may sell finished items made from MJ’s patterns, but please credit:
“Pattern by MJ’s Off The Hook Designs Inc.”
Pattern Support is only available in our Facebook Community group and Video Tutorials.
No additional support is provided for modified patterns, alternate yarns, or changes to gauge.
@mjsoffthehook How to view free patterns on my blog. Click link in my bio #exclusivecontent #freecrochetpatterns #grow #mediavine
♬ FEEL THE GROOVE – Queens Road, Fabian Graetz
PATTERN
Sizing Chart
Schematic is included when you purchase the PDF Pattern
Abbreviations
Blo – Back Loop Only
Ch – Chain
Hdc – Half Double Crochet
Rep – Repeat
RS – Right Side
Sc – Single Crochet
Sk – Skip
Sl St – Slip Stitch
Sp(s) – Space(s)
St(s) – Stitch(es)
V St – hdc, ch 1, hdc in the same st
WS – Wrong Side
( ) – Work step in parentheses in indicated stitch
XS (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X)
The pattern is written for the smallest size with larger sizes in parenthesis ( ). If there is only one number it applies to all sizes.
Colour Pattern Instructions
The cardigan may be worked in one colour or broken into 4 sections of colour blocking. When changing colour work the last yarn over the last stitch with the next colour. A includes the foundation in row count. For a shorter cardigan evenly reduce the row count per colour in multiples of 2.
XS: 16 Rows A, 16 Rows B, 16 Rows C, 10 Rows D.
S: 18 Rows A, 18 Rows B, 18 Rows C, 12 Rows D.
All Other Sizes: 20 Rows A, 20 Rows B, 20 Rows C, 12 Rows D.
Yoke
Foundation Row (RS):
With larger hook and A, ch 89, work 1 sc in the back bump of the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn—88 sts.
Row 1 (WS):
Ch 1 (not included as a st here and throughout), 1 hdc in each of the first 13 sts (front), hdc V st in next st (see abbreviations), 1 hdc in each of the next 16 sts (sleeve), V st in next st, 1 hdc in each of the next 26 sts (back), V st in next st, 1 hdc in each of the next 16 sts (sleeve), V st in next st, 1 hdc in each of the next 13 sts (front), turn—92 sts (does not include ch-1 sps) Incr. equal to 4 sts.
Row 2 (RS):
Ch 1, 1 hdc in each of the first 14 sts, V st in ch-1 sp, 1 hdc in each of the next 18 sts, V st in ch-1 sp, 1 hdc in each of the next 28 sts, V st in ch-1 sp, 1 hdc in each of the next 18 sts, V st in ch-1 sp, 1 hdc in each of the next 14 sts, turn—100 sts. Incr. equal to 8 sts.
Row 3:
Ch 1, 1 hdc in each st to the ch-1 sp, V st in ch-1 sp, 1 hdc in each st to the ch-1 sp, V st in ch-1 sp, 1 hdc in each st to the ch-1 sp, V st in ch-1 sp, 1 hdc in each st to the ch-1 sp, V st in ch-1 sp, 1 hdc in each remaining st, turn—108 sts.
XS (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X)
Rows 4-12 (14, 17, 20, 23, 25, 28, 31, 34):
Rep row 3. Each row; right and left front go up 1 st, sleeves go up 2 sts and back 2 sts for a total increase of 8 sts each row ending with 180 (196, 220, 244, 268, 284, 308, 332, 356) sts.
Body
Row 13 (15, 18, 21, 24, 26, 29, 32, 35):
Ch 1, 1 hdc in each st to the ch-1 sp (front), ch 2 (4, 4, 4, 4, 6, 6, 6, 6) sk sleeve sts to the next ch-1 sp, in the 2nd hdc of V st work 1 hdc in each st across to the ch-1 sp (back), ch 2 (4, 4, 4, 4, 6, 6, 6, 6) sk sleeve sts to the next ch-1 sp, in the 2nd hdc of V st work 1 hdc in each remaining st across (front), turn—104 (116, 128, 140, 152, 164, 176, 188, 200) sts (including chs).
Row 14 (16, 19, 22, 25, 27, 30, 33, 36):
Ch 1, work 1 hdc in each st and the back bump of each ch across, turn—104 (116, 128, 140, 152, 164, 176, 188, 200) sts.
Row 15 (17, 20, 23, 26, 28, 31, 34, 37):
Ch 1, work 1 hdc in each st across, turn—104 (116, 128, 140, 152, 164, 176, 188, 200) sts.
Row 16 (18, 21, 24, 27, 29, 32, 35, 38) – 57 (65, 71, 71, 71, 71, 71, 71, 71):
Rep previous row—104 (116, 128, 140, 152, 164, 176, 188, 200) sts.
Last Row:
Ch 1, 1 sc in each st across, turn—104 (116, 128, 140, 152, 164, 176, 188, 200) sts.
Band
The band is joined as you go to the body edge.
Row 1:
With D and the larger hook, ch 13, 1 sc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, sk first st at the body edge, sl st in the next 2 sts (body edge), turn—12 sts.
Row 2:
Sk sl sts, 1 sc in the blo of each st across, turn—12 sts.
Row 3:
Ch 1, work 1 sc in the blo of each st across, sl st in next 2 sts (body edge), turn—12 sts.
Rows 4-104 (116, 128, 140, 152, 164, 176, 188, 200):
Rep Row 2 & 3. Last Row 3 only 1 sl st is worked. End on Row 2. Fasten off and weave in tails.
Sleeves
The sleeve measures 19.75- 21″ including a 3.25″ cuff. This is a long oversized sleeve. Reduce the number of rounds for a shorter sleeve. Math based on gauge, 4″/9 = .444″ per row
Colour Pattern Instructions
When changing colour work the last yarn over the last stitch with the next colour.
XS (S, M): Colour A 3 (3, 2) rounds, B 14 (14, 16), C 14 (14, 16), D 6 (6, 6,). Total 37 (37, 40) rounds.
For all other sizes, Begin with colour B. Crochet the colour pattern as desired or follow suggested rounds below.
L: B 15, C 16, D 8= 39
XL: B 14, C 18, D 8 = 40
2X: B 14, C, 18, D 8 =40
3X: B 11, C 18, D 10 = 39
4X: B 10, C 18, D 12 = 40
5X: B 7, C 18, D 14 = 39
Continuing from yoke the rows change to rounds.
Complete for left and right sleeves.
Round 1 WS (WS, RS, WS, RS, RS, WS, RS, WS):
With the larger hook, sk over the first 1 (2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 3) chs of the underarm, join yarn in the 2nd (3rd, 3rd, 3rd, 3rd, 4th, 4th, 4th, 4th) ch, ch 1, work 1 hdc in the same ch and next ch(s), work hdc2tog across corner, work 1 hdc in each of the next 40 (44, 50, 56, 62, 66, 72, 78, 84) sts around, work hdc2tog across corner, work 1 hdc in the last 1 (2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 3) chs, sl st in the first hdc to join, TURN—44 (50, 56, 62, 68, 74, 80, 86, 92) sts.
Round 2:
Ch 1, 1 hdc in the first st, hdc2tog across the next 2 sts, 1 hdc in each st around to the last 3 sts, hdc2tog across the next 2 sts, 1 hdc in the last st, sl st in the first hdc to join, TURN—42 (48, 54, 60, 66, 72, 78, 84, 90) sts.
Rounds 3-8 (8, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10):
Ch 1, work 1 hdc in each st around, sl st in the first hdc to join, TURN—42 (48, 54, 60, 66, 72, 78, 84, 90) sts.
Decrease Pattern:
Round 9 (9, 11, 11, 11, 11, 11, 11, 11):
Ch 1, 1 hdc in the first st, hdc2tog across the next 2 sts, 1 hdc in each st around to the last 3 sts, hdc2tog across the next 2 sts, 1 hdc in the last st, sl st in the first hdc to join, TURN—40 (46, 52, 58, 64, 70, 76, 82, 88) sts.
Next 3 Rounds:
Ch 1, work 1 hdc in each st around, sl st in the first hdc to join, TURN—40 (46, 52, 58, 64, 70, 76, 82, 88) sts.
Repeat Decrease Pattern of 4 rounds [6 more times] ending with—28 (34, 40, 46, 52, 58, 64, 70, 76) sts. For a shorter sleeve reduce the number of non-increase rounds between decrease.
M (XL, 2X, 4X) only
Round 40:
Ch 1, work 1 hdc in each st around, sl st in the first hdc to join, TURN—40 (52, 58, 70) sts.
All Sizes Last Round (RS):
Ch 1, *work 1 sc in the first 2 sts, 1 sc2tog across the next 2 sts; rep from * around, (S, L, 2X, 4X ending with sc in the last 2 sts), sl st in the first sc to join—21 (26, 30, 35, 39, 44, 48, 53, 57) sts.
Do additional decreases if needed for a tighter cuff. Change to smaller hook.
Band
The band is joined as you go to the sleeve edge.
Row 1:
With the smaller hook, ch 13, 1 sc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, sk first st at the sleeve edge, sl st in the next 2 sts (sleeve edge), turn—12 sts.
Row 2:
Sk sl sts, 1 sc in the blo of each st across, turn—12 sts.
Row 3:
Ch 1, work 1 sc in the blo of each st across, sl st in next 2 sts (sleeve edge), turn—12 sts.
Rows 4 – 21 (26, 30, 35, 39, 44, 48, 53, 57):
Rep Row 2 & 3. The last Row, ch 1, with RS facing sl st the band together, fasten off and weave in ends.
Hood
With larger hook and RS facing join A to the first st, top right of the foundation row.
Row 1:
Ch 1, hdc in each of the next 12 sts, hdc3tog across next 3 sts, hdc in each of the next 14 sts, hdc3tog across next 3 sts, hdc in each of the next 24 sts, hdc3tog across next 3 sts, hdc in each of the next 14 sts, hdc3tog across next 3 sts, hdc in each of the last 12 sts, turn—80 sts.
Rows 2-21:
Ch 1, work 1 hdc in each st across, turn—80 sts.
Row 22:
Ch 1, hdc in each of the next 36 sts, 4 hdc2tog across next 8 sts, hdc in the remaining 36 sts across, turn—76 sts.
Row 23:
Ch 1, hdc in each st across, turn—76 sts.
Row 24:
Ch 1, hdc in each of the next 36 sts, 2 hdc2tog across next 4 sts, hdc in the remaining 36 sts across, turn—74 sts.
Row 25:
Ch 1, hdc in each of the next 35 sts, 2 hdc2tog across next 4 sts, hdc in the remaining 35 sts across, turn—72 sts.
Row 26:
Ch 1, hdc in each of the next 34 sts, 2 hdc2tog across next 4 sts, hdc in the remaining 34 sts across, turn—70 sts.
Row 27:
Ch 1, hdc in each of the next 34 sts, 1 hdc2tog across next 2 sts, hdc in the remaining 34 sts across, turn—69 sts.
Row 28:
Ch 1, hdc in each st across—69 sts. Fasten off with a long tail. Fold the hood RS facing, with yarn needle and tail whip stitch the top of the hood together. Weave in tails.
Edging
The edge of the cardigan is worked in single crochet stitches in the colour block pattern. With smaller hook and D, join RS facing to bottom front right.
Project Tips
Colour Changing Tip: Separate colours B-D into 2 balls. Don’t cut colours; drop off each colour and pick back up as you go.
Row 1 (RS):
Ch 1, work sc sts evenly across edge working 3 sts/per 2 rows. Work across front right, hood, front left, change colour per section, turn.
Row 2 (WS):
Ch 1, sc in each st across, turn.
Row 3:
Ch 1, sc in each st across, fasten off and weave in tails.
Belt (optional)
Row 1:
With smaller hook and B, Ch 11, work 1 sc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn—10 sts.
Row 2:
Ch 1, 1 sc in the blo of each st across, turn—10 sts.
Rows 3-132 (142, 152, 162, 172, 182, 192, 202, 212):
Rep row 2, fasten off and weave in tails. Steam block to flatten rows. The belt should measure approximately 56 (60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88) ” when steam blocked.
Band
Row 1:
With smaller hook and C, Ch 6, work 1 sc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn—5 sts.
Row 2:
Ch 1, 1 sc in the blo of each st across, turn—5 sts.
Rows 3-20:
Rep row 2.
After the final row, turn.
Body
Row 1 (WS):
Ch 1, sc evenly along the length of the band (1 sc per row)—20 sts.
Row 2 (RS):
Ch 1, hdc in each st across, turn—20 sts.
Rows 3-12:
Rep Row 2.
Edging
Turn to the left and sl st across the edge of each row, fasten off with a long tail for sewing.
RS facing join to the top left, ch 1, sl st across the edge of each row, fasten off and weave in ends.
Sewing
Use the long tail to sew the pocket to the C section of the cardigan. Sew approximately 1″ from the edge, centred in the colour block. If crocheting the cardigan in one colour, sew approximately 9″ from the bottom. When sewing, go through the back loop of sts.
Blocking
Gently steam block the cardigan. This is especially helpful to stretch out the bottom band and prevent the edges from curling.
You May Also Love These Patterns
This pattern is designed by Michelle Moore of MJ’s Off The Hook Designs Inc based in Lakefield Ontario Canada. Your go to source for modern easy crochet patterns. Published on October 27th, 2025.
Thank you for visiting MJ’s Off The Hook Designs I hope you enjoyed this pattern and feel inspired to pick up your hook and start creating.
You can find even more crochet patterns in our Ravelry and Etsy shops.
For daily inspiration and behind the scenes peeks join me over on Facebook or Instagram or join our YouTube Membership for exclusive content!
*This post contains affiliate links at no cost to you!
