Free Gemstone Granny Crochet Cardigan Pattern

The Gemstone Granny Crochet Cardigan is your ultimate fall layering piece – cozy, stylish, and size-inclusive (XS–5X). This long, hooded cardigan drapes beautifully, flatters every body shape, and is surprisingly easy to make. Worked from the bottom up with bold granny-style colorwork, it’s perfect for confident beginners and seasoned crocheters alike.

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The free Gemstone Granny Crochet Cardigan Pattern (XS–5X) includes a hood and pockets with the written instructions and a full step-by-step video tutorial. Plus, you’ll find tips on customizing the length, sleeve style, and fit so you can create a cardigan that’s truly your own.

Looking for more size-inclusive long crochet cardigans? The Whimsical Cardigan Dress and the Hummingbird Cardigan are perfect for adding chic and stylish texture to your wardrobe!

Hooded Gemstone Crochet Cardigan Supplies

Yarn

Lion Brand Color Theory
100% Acrylic, 246yds/100g

Color A: Moonbeam
Color B: Canyon
Color C: Tourmaline
Color D: Himalayan Salt

Yarn Quantities

2415 (2550, 2665, 2750, 2920) (3090, 3265, 3440, 3610) total yds

Number of Skeins:

Color A:
9 (9, 10, 11, 11) (12, 13, 13, 14) skeins

Color B, C, D:
1 (1, 1, 1, 1) (1, 1, 2, 2) skeins

Yarn Substitutions

Lion Brand Mandala Ombre
100% Acrylic, 344 yds/150g

Mary Maxim Starlette Worsted
100% Ultra Soft Acrylic, 180yds/100g

WeCrochet Swish
100% Fine Superwash Merino Wool 110yds/50g

Remember always to check the gauge and drape when substituting yarns.

Crochet Hook

Size US H (5.0mm) Crochet Hook or hook to obtain gauge.

Notions

Scissors
Yarn Needle
Removable Stitch Marker

Skill Level

Intermediate

? Charming Granny Stitch Colorwork: This cardigan features beautifully crafted granny stitch diamonds that add a pop of color and texture, making it an eye-catching addition to any fall wardrobe.

? Comfortable & Functional Hood: Whether you’re out for a walk in the crisp autumn air or lounging at home, the hood adds an extra layer of warmth and coziness, keeping you snug all season long.

? Thoughtful Construction: Designed to be practical yet stylish, this cardigan is crocheted from the bottom up, allowing for a seamless fit that drapes beautifully. The addition of front pockets provides both style and utility, making it the perfect layering piece for your everyday adventures.

? Versatile Length: The longer length of this cardigan makes it ideal for pairing with jeans, leggings, or even dresses, offering endless styling possibilities for the fall and winter months.

? POCKETS: It. Has. Pockets!

Sizes

XS (S, M, L, 1X) (2X, 3X, 4X, 5X)

To fit chest: 32 (34, 38, 42, 46) (50, 54, 58, 62)

Actual measurements: 36 (40, 44, 48, 51.75) (55.5, 59.5, 63.5, 67)

This garment has a relaxed fit and is meant to be worn with a 4-6 inch ease. For a more fitted look, go down a size.

Abbreviations

blo – back loop only
ch – chain
dc – double crochet
flo – front loop only
rnd – round
sc – single crochet
sl st – slip stitch
st(s) – stitch(es)
Stsc – Stacked single crochet

Gauge

15 sts and 9 rows = 4″ by 4″ in granny st pattern.

How to Crochet A Gauge Swatch

Working a gauge swatch will let you know if you will have the correct sizing for this pattern. It will also help you practice the stitches used in this project and improve your stitch work for a flawless look.
Are you struggling to match the gauge? Check out the blog post on What is Crochet Gauge and How To Fix It

Gauge Swatch Instructions

Ch 26

Row 1:

Working in the first ch from hook, Stsc first ch, 2 dc in next ch, *skip 2 chs, 3 dc in next ch; repeat from * until the last 3 chs, skip 2 chs, dc in last, turn. | 25 sts

Row 2:

Stsc in first, 2 dc in the first space, *3 dc in the next space between the granny st groups; repeat until the last 3 sts of the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn.

Repeats:

Repeat Row 2 until the swatch is at least 5 inches to measure.

Special Stitches

Stacked Single Crochet (Stsc): Do NOT chain, insert hook into next stitch, yo, pull up a loop, yo and pull through both loops, insert hook in the vertical bar below, yo, pull up a loop, yo and pull through both loops on the hook.

Pattern Notes

• Using a stitch marker at the beginning of the row is recommended.
• The instructions and stitch counts are given for the smallest size, with the larger sizes in brackets ( ).
• Before you dive into your project, take a moment to identify the stitch and row counts that match the size you’re making. By highlighting or marking them, you’ll save time and effort later on. Trust us, this small step will make a big difference in your knitting or crochet journey!
• When doing colorwork, always carry your yarn on the wrong side of the work.

Frequently Asked Questions – Gemstone Granny Crochet Cardigan

Q: Is this crochet cardigan pattern beginner-friendly?
A: Yes! While it looks advanced, the Gemstone Granny Cardigan uses simple stitches and clear shaping. The included video tutorial makes it accessible for confident beginners.

Q: How long does it take to crochet this cardigan?
A: On average, expect 20–30 hours, depending on your speed and size choice. Breaking it into daily crochet sessions makes it an enjoyable, relaxing project.

Q: Can I use a different yarn for this cardigan?
A: Absolutely. Any worsted or aran-weight yarn will work, though yarn choice may affect drape and warmth. Always check your gauge before starting.

Q: How do I make this cardigan longer or shorter?
A: Simply add or remove rows after the colorwork section before reaching the underarm. This adjusts the overall length without altering the fit.

Q: Is there a no-hood option?
A: Yes. Simply finish the neckline with a simple trim instead of attaching the hood.

Video Tutorial for the Hooded Gemstone Granny Cardigan

The Ad-Free PDF can be purchased on Etsy or Ravelry.

Written Crochet Pattern Instructions

Row 13:

With Color A, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *3 dc in next space between the granny st groups; repeat until the last 3 sts of the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn.

Sl st around the edges of the pocket, placing 2 sts per row on the sides, join.

Pocket Ribbing:

Row 1:

Ch 5, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across back towards the cardigan body, blo sl st in next 2 sts, turn. | 4 sc, 2 sl sts

Row 2:

Sk 2 sl sts, blo sc 4, turn.

Row 3:

Ch 1, blo sc 4, blo sl st in next 2 sts, turn.

Next Rows:

Rep Rows 2-3 for ribbing across the top of the pocket, fasten off leaving a long tail for sewing onto the cardigan.

Bottom Ribbing

Row 1:

Ch 10, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across, turn. | 9 sts

Row 2:

Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch here and throughout), working in the blo, sc in each st across, turn. | 9 sts

Repeats:

Repeat Row 2 until there are 140 (152, 164, 188, 200) (212, 224, 248, 260) total rows of ribbing.

Rotate your ribbing to work across the long edge, ch 1, sl st 1 st per edge. | 140 (152, 164, 186, 200) (212, 224, 248, 260) sl sts

Bottom of Cardi

Rows 1-10:

Follow the instructions for each size in the following section.

Extra Small, 2X, & 4X

Row 1 (WS): With Color A and working in the flo for this row, Stsc in first, 2 dc in next, *skip 2 sts, 3 dc in next; repeat from * until the last 3 sts in the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn. | xs: 139; 2X: 211; 4X: 247 sts

Row 2 (RS): With Color B, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color A 3 dc in next 2 spaces (between the granny st groups), with Color B 3 dc in next space; repeat until the last st of the row, dc in last, turn. Fasten off Color A.

Row 3: With Color B, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *3 dc in next space, with Color C 3 dc in next space, with Color B 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last st, dc in last, turn.

Row 4: With Color B, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *With Color C 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces, with Color B 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last st, with Color C dc in last, turn. Fasten off Color B.

Row 5: With Color C, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *3 dc in next space, with Color D 3 dc in next space, with Color C 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last st, with Color D dc in last, turn.

Row 6: With Color C, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color D 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces, with Color C 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last st, with Color D dc in last, turn.

Row 7: Repeat Row 5. Fasten off Color D.

Row 8: Repeat Row 4.

Row 9: Repeat Row 3. Fasten off Color C.

Row 10: Repeat Row 2. Fasten off Color B.

Medium & 1X

Row 1 (WS): With Color A and working in the flo for this row, Stsc in first, 2 dc in next, *skip 2 sts, 3 dc in next; repeat from * until the last 3 sts in the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn. | Medium: 163; 1X: 199 sts

Row 2 (RS): With Color B, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color A 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces (between the granny st groups), with Color B 3 dc in next space; repeat until the last 9 sts of the row, with Color A 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces, with Color B dc in last, turn. Fasten off Color A.

Row 5: With Color C, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color D 3 dc in next space, with Color C 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces; repeat from * until the last 9 sts, with Color D 3 dc in next space, with Color C 3 dc in next space, with Color D dc in last, turn.

Row 6: With Color C, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color D 3 dc each of the next 2 spaces, with Color C 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last 9 sts, with Color D 3 dc each of the next 2 spaces, with Color C dc in last, turn.

Row 7: Repeat Row 5. Fasten off Color D.

Row 8: Repeat Row 4.

Row 9: Repeat Row 3. Fasten off Color C.

Row 10: Repeat Row 2. Fasten off Color B.

Small, Large, 3X, & 5X

Row 1 (WS): With Color A and working in the flo for this row, Stsc in first, 2 dc in next, *skip 2 sts, 3 dc in next; repeat from * until the last 3 sts in the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn. | 139 (Small: 151; Large: 187; 3X: 223; 5X: 259 sts

Row 2 (RS): With Color B, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color A 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces (between the granny st groups), with Color B 3 dc in next space; repeat until the last 6 sts of the row, with Color A 3 dc in next space, dc in last, turn. Fasten off Color A.

Row 3: With Color C, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color B 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces, with Color C 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last 6 sts, with Color B 3 dc in next space, dc in last, turn.

Row 4: With Color B, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color C 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces, with Color B 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last 6 sts, with Color C 3 dc in next space, dc in last, turn. Fasten off Color B.

Row 5: With Color D, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color C 3 dc in each of the next 2 spaces, with Color D 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last 6 sts, with Color C 3 dc in next space, with Color D dc in last, turn.

Row 6: With Color C, Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *with Color D 3 dc each of the next 2 spaces, with Color C 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last 6 sts, with Color D 3 dc in next space, dc in last, turn.

Row 7: Repeat Row 5. Fasten off Color D.

Row 8: Repeat Row 4.

Row 9: Repeat Row 3. Fasten off Color C.

Row 10: Repeat Row 2. Fasten off Color B.

Rows 11-45 for all sizes:

Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *3 dc in the next space between the granny st groups; repeat until the last 3 sts of the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn.

Customization Tip:

I’ve given the row count for the sample shown, but add or remove rows to increase or decrease the length. Measure from under your arm and down your side to get an idea of what suits you best.

First Front Panel

Row 1:

Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, 3 dc in next 10 (11, 12, 14, 15) (16, 17, 19, 20) spaces, dc in next space, turn. | 34 (37, 40, 46, 49) (52, 55, 61, 64) sts; 11 (12, 13, 15, 16) (17, 18, 20, 21) granny groups + 1 sts

Row 2:

Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *3 dc in next space between the granny st groups; repeat until the last 3 sts of the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn.

Rows 3 – 17 (18, 19, 20, 21) (22, 23, 24, 24):

Repeat Row 2. Fasten off leaving a long tail end to stitch the shoulder seam later.

Back Panel

Row 1:

Join yarn to the space next to the First Panel row. Stsc and 2 dc in the space,*3 dc in next 21 (23, 25, 29, 31) (33, 35, 39, 42) spaces, dc in next space, turn. | 67 (73, 79, 91, 97) (103, 109, 121, 127) sts; 22 (24, 26, 30, 32) (34, 36, 40, 42) granny groups + 1 sts

Row 2:

Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *3 dc in next space between the granny st groups; repeat until the last 3 sts of the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn.

Repeats:

Repeat Row 2 until there are 17 (18, 19, 20, 21) (22, 23, 24, 24) total rows for the back panel. Fasten off.

Second Front Panel

Row 1:

Join yarn to the space next to the Back Panel row. Stsc and 2 dc in the space, *3 dc in next space between the granny st groups; repeat until the last 3 sts of the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn. | 34 (37, 40, 46, 49) (52, 55, 61, 64) sts; 11 (12, 13, 15, 16) (17, 18, 20, 21) granny groups + 1 sts

Row 2:

Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *3 dc in next space between the granny st groups; repeat until the last 3 sts of the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn.

Rows 3-17 (18, 19, 20, 21) (22, 23, 24, 24):

Repeat Row 2. Fasten off leaving a long tail end to stitch the shoulder seam later.

Cuff Ribbing

The ribbing will be worked in rows then joined and worked in the round. Start with Color A.

Row 1:

Ch 8, sc in 2nd ch from the hook and across, turn. | 7 sts

Row 2:

Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch here and throughout), working in the blo sc in each st across, turn. | 7 sts

Repeats:

Repeat Row 2 until there are 36 (36, 39, 39, 42) (42, 45, 45, 45) total rows of ribbing.

Join:

Slip Stitch Row 1 and current Row together by working through the blo of the current row and the blo loop from the first row.

Rotate your ribbing to work across the long edge, ch 1, sl st 1 st per edge. | 36 (36, 39, 39, 42) (42, 45, 45, 45) sl sts

Sleeve

Setup:

Working along the edge of the ribbing, sl st one stitch per row, join and turn. The rest of the pattern will be worked in rounds. The next round can be worked in the flo if desired.

Rnd 1 (WS):

Working in the same st as joined, Stsc, 2 dc in same st, skip 2 sts, *3 in next st, skip 2 sts; repeat from * around, join to Stsc with Color C, turn. Fasten off Color A.| 36 (36, 39, 39, 42) (42, 45, 45, 45) sts

Rnd 2 (RS):

Working into the first space, Stsc, 2 dc in same space, *with Color B 3 dc in next space, with Color C 3 dc in next space; repeat from * around, with Color B 3 dc in last space, join to Stsc with Color C, turn. Fasten off Color B.

Rnd 3:

Working into the first space, Stsc, 2 dc in same space, 3 dc in each space around, join and turn.

Rnd 4:

Working into the first space with Color D, Stsc, 2 dc in same space, *with Color C 3 dc in next space, with Color D 3 dc in next space; repeat from * until the last space, with Color C 3 dc in last space, join to Stsc with Color C and turn. Fasten off Color D.

Rnd 5:

Repeat Rnd 3.

Rnd 6:

Repeat Rnd 2, joining with Color A. Fasten off Color B & C.

Next, we will start to increase the sleeve circumference. The instructions needed for each size are as follows:

Non-Increase Rnd:

Stsc in first, 2 dc in the same space, 3 dc in the remaining spaces around, join and turn.

How to Increase:

Increase Rnd 1:

Increases are best worked under the arm as follows, work 4 dc in the first space, continue in the granny stitch pattern around.

Increase Rnd 2:

Work in the granny stitch until you reach the 4 dc group, 3 dc in the center space between the 4 dc sts.

Size XS: [Work Increase Rnds 1-2, then 4 rounds without increasing] 6 times, then work 3 more rounds without increasing. Fasten off yarn leaving a long tail for seaming. | 54 sts, 45 Rnds

Size S: [Work Increase Rnds 1-2, then 2 rounds without increasing] 8 times, then work 7 more rnds without increasing. Fasten off yarn leaving a long tail for seaming. | 60 sts, 45 Rnds

Size M: [Work Increase Rnds 1-2, then 1 rounds without increasing] 10 times, then work 9 more rnds without increasing. Fasten off yarn leaving a long tail for seaming. | 66 sts, 45 Rnds

Size L: [Work Increase Rnds 1-2, then 1 round without increasing] 12 times, then work 3 more rnds without increasing. Fasten off yarn leaving a long tail for seaming. | 72 sts, 45 Rnds

Size 1X: [Work Increase Rnds 1-2, then 1 round without increasing] 10 times, then work 9 more rnds without increasing. Fasten off yarn leaving a long tail for seaming. | 72 sts, 45 Rnds

Size 2X: [Work Increase Rnds 1-2, then 1 round without increasing] 12 times, then work 3 more rnds without increasing. Fasten off yarn leaving a long tail for seaming. | 78 sts, 45 Rnds

Size 3X: [Work Increase Rnds 1-2, then 1 rounds without increasing] 12 times, then work 3 more rnds without increasing. Fasten off yarn leaving a long tail for seaming. | 78 sts, 45 Rnds

Size 4X & 5X: [Work Increase Rnds 1-2, then 1 rnd without increasing] 14 times. Then repeat rnds 1-2 one more time. Fasten off yarn leaving a long tail for seaming. | 84 sts, 47 Rnds

Repeat for Second Sleeve.

Seaming the Shoulders

Lay the body panel flat with the wrong side facing. Fold each side panel in and seam until the last 5 inches of the front panel, starting at the shoulder edge.

This will allow room for the hood. If omitting the hood, seam the entire shoulder.

Hood

Row 1 (RS):

Join Color A to the left corner of the neck opening. Stsc in first, 2 dc in next, *skip 2 sts, 3 dc in next; repeat from * across the top edge (placing a granny group on the seam), until the last 3 sts in the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn. | 82 sts; 27 granny groups + 1 st

Row 2 (WS):

Stsc in first, 2 dc in first space, *3 dc in the next space between the granny st groups; repeat until the last 3 sts of the row, skip 2 sts, dc in last, turn.

Rows 3-30:

Repeat Row 2. Fasten off leaving a long tail for seaming.

*You can adjust the height of your hood by crocheting fewer or more rows.

Fold the hood in half, and with your yarn needle and Color A yarn, seam the top of the hood together. Weave in ends.

Front Ribbing

Setup:

With the right side facing, join to the bottom front left corner of the cardigan, sl st around the front opening (including the hook), placing approx 2 sts per row, keeping sts as even as possible, turn.

Row 1:

Ch 8, sc in the 2nd ch from hook and across back towards the cardigan body, flo sl st in next 2 sts, turn. | 7 sc, 2 sl sts

Row 2:

Sk 2 sl sts, blo sc 7, turn.

Row 3:

Ch 1, blo sc 7, flo sl st in next 2 sts, turn.

Next Rows:

Rep Rows 2-3 for ribbing around the front opening.

Fasten off.

Assembly

The last steps will be to pin the sleeves to the sleeve opening and seam the sleeves to the body.

Then, place the pockets in desired location and sew the pockets to the body around the three bottom edges.

Finishing

Weave in any ends, block the garment if needed, and enjoy! 

The Gemstone Granny Crochet Cardigan is more than just a warm layer – it’s a customizable, handmade statement piece you’ll treasure for years. Whether you keep it classic with long sleeves and a hood or modify it into a sleeveless vest, the possibilities are endless.

Ready to try more cozy, size-inclusive crochet cardigan patterns? Check out:

• Campside Cardigan
• Snuggle Puff Cardi
• Rainbow Hues Cardi
• Robin Duster
• Whimsical Cardigan Dress

Cheers, and happy crocheting!