sc – single crochet
dc – double crochet
Step 1: Crochet One Large Granny Square
Your granny square should measure at least half the height of the intended wearer, plus an extra 1–2 inches for ease and drape.
Foundation
Round 1
-
Ch 3 (counts as first dc)
-
2 dc into the ring
-
Ch 2
-
(3 dc into ring, ch 2) repeat 3 times
-
Sl st into the top of the starting ch 3
Tip: Lay the yarn tail along the ring and crochet over it to weave in the end as you work.
Round 2
-
Ch 3 and turn
-
(2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the first ch-2 space (corner made)
-
(Ch 1, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in each remaining corner space
-
Ch 1 and sl st into the top of the starting ch 3
Round 3
-
Ch 3 and turn
-
2 dc in the next ch-1 space
-
In corners: (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)
-
Along sides: (ch 1, 3 dc) in each ch-1 space
-
Ch 1 and sl st into the top of the starting ch 3
Repeat Round 3 until your granny square reaches the desired size.
Final “Binding” Round
-
Ch 1 and turn
-
Sc in each dc and into each ch-1 space along the sides
-
In each corner (ch-2 space), work 4 sc
-
Sl st into the starting ch 1
-
Fasten off, leaving a 6” tail
Step 2: Seam the Sides to Form Armholes
-
Fold the square in half with right sides together, forming a rectangle.
-
Align dc clusters and ch-1 spaces carefully on both sides.
Note: If you turned your work at the end of each round, both sides of the square will look nearly identical—choose either as the right side.
-
Measure 7 inches from the fold and begin seaming with sc through both layers of the binding stitches.
-
Continue sc evenly along the side.
-
At the corner, work sc through only the first two stitches of the corner.
-
Fasten off.
Repeat on the opposite side.
Fit Tip:
Starting 7” from the fold creates a 14” armhole, which fits most sizes. Adjust the starting point to make armholes larger or smaller as desired.
Step 3: Add Borders to the Front Opening and Armholes
Round 1
-
Join yarn with sl st to the sc binding near a side seam
-
Ch 1
-
Sc evenly around the entire front opening and both armholes
-
Sl st into the starting ch 1
Tip: Crochet over any remaining yarn ends for a clean finish.
Rounds 2–6
For the final round, use an invisible finish for a polished edge.
Finishing
Weave in any remaining ends. If you crocheted over yarn tails and used a secure join method, you should have very few ends left—typically one for the front border and one for each sleeve.
Styling & Customization Ideas
-
Use soft neutrals for a minimalist look
-
Choose bold colors or variegated yarn for a statement piece
-
Add pockets or a belt
-
Adjust sleeve openings for a more fitted or oversized style
The Granny Square Cocoon Cardigan is proof that simple crochet techniques can create stunning, wearable garments. With minimal shaping and endless customization options, this pattern is perfect for relaxing crochet sessions and rewarding results.
