Olive Grove Cocoon Cardigan Free Pattern – Knit a Cozy Oversized Jacket
Olive Grove Cocoon Cardigan Free Pattern – Knit a Cozy Oversized Jacket
Wrap yourself in the lush, earthy embrace of the Olive Grove Cocoon Cardigan, a generously oversized knit that feels like a forest hug. This free pattern uses a simple yet striking combination of moss stitch and ribbed panels to create a modern, drapey silhouette perfect for layering. Whether you're curling up with a book or heading out for a crisp autumn walk, this cardigan is your new go-to layer. The deep olive green color evokes the tranquility of nature, while the nubby moss stitch texture adds depth and visual interest to every stitch.
Designed for knitters of all skill levels, this pattern is worked in one piece from the bottom up, then split for the back and fronts—making it surprisingly simple to construct. The dropped shoulders and wide, 3/4-length sleeves create that coveted cocoon shape, while the open front means no buttons or closures to fuss with. Just slip it on and go!
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience:
Yarn
- Worsted weight yarn in olive green (approx. 1200-1400 yards for sizes S-2XL)
- Suggested: Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Olive (or any worsted weight yarn that meets gauge)
Needles
- US 9 (5.5 mm) circular knitting needles, 32-inch or longer (for magic loop or working flat)
- US 9 (5.5 mm) straight needles for smaller pieces if preferred
Other Supplies
- Stitch markers
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Blocking mats and pins (optional but recommended)
Gauge
16 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in moss stitch, after blocking.
Always take time to check your gauge! If your gauge is off, adjust your needle size accordingly to achieve the correct measurements.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sizes & Measurements
Sizes: S/M (M/L, L/XL, 2XL/3XL)
Finished chest: 50 (54, 58, 62) inches
Abbreviations
- CO: cast on
- K: knit
- P: purl
- K2tog: knit two together
- P2tog: purl two together
- St(s): stitch(es)
- RS: right side
- WS: wrong side
- Rep: repeat
Moss Stitch Pattern (over an even number of sts)
Row 1 (RS): *K1, P1; rep from * to end.
Row 2: *P1, K1; rep from * to end.
Rep Rows 1-2 for pattern.
Note: The cardigan is worked in one piece from the bottom up, then split for the back and fronts. Sleeves are picked up and worked in the round.
Body
CO 200 (216, 232, 248) sts. Do not join; work back and forth.
Work in moss stitch for 2 inches, ending with a WS row.
Continue in moss stitch until piece measures 18 (19, 20, 21) inches from cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.
Divide for Armholes
Next row (RS): Work 50 (54, 58, 62) sts in pattern (left front), bind off next 10 sts, work 80 (88, 96, 104) sts (back), bind off next 10 sts, work remaining 50 (54, 58, 62) sts (right front).
Back
Work back and forth on the 80 (88, 96, 104) back sts only.
Decrease for armhole shaping: At each armhole edge, decrease 1 st every other row 3 times: K2tog at beginning of row, work to last 2 sts, K2tog at end. (74, 82, 90, 98 sts)
Work even in moss stitch until armhole measures 9 (10, 11, 12) inches.
Bind off all sts loosely.
Left Front
Attach yarn to the left front sts (the side that will be on your left when wearing).
Work armhole decreases as for back: Decrease 1 st at armhole edge every other row 3 times. (47, 51, 55, 59 sts)
Work even until armhole measures 7 (8, 9, 10) inches, ending with a WS row.
Neck shaping: At neck edge (the side opposite the armhole), bind off 10 (11, 12, 13) sts, then decrease 1 st at neck edge every row 5 times. (32, 35, 38, 41 sts)
Work even until armhole measures same as back. Bind off all sts.
Right Front
Work same as left front, reversing shaping.
Sleeves
With RS facing, pick up and knit 72 (78, 84, 90) sts around armhole opening.
Place marker for beginning of round. Work in moss stitch in the round (alternating K1, P1, P1, K1 each round).
Decrease 2 sts at underarm every 6 rounds: K2tog, work to last 2 sts, K2tog. Repeat until sleeve measures 16 (17, 18, 19) inches from underarm, or desired length.
Work even for 2 inches. Bind off loosely.
Finishing
Weave in all ends. Block to measurements. Optionally, add a simple crochet edging (sc) around the front opening and neck for a clean finish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Understanding the Moss Stitch
The moss stitch creates a beautiful, pebbled texture that's reversible—perfect for an open cardigan. When working in the round for sleeves, remember to alternate the pattern differently than when working flat. In the round, you'll work: Round 1: *K1, P1; rep from *; Round 2: *P1, K1; rep from *.
Blocking Matters
Don't skip blocking! This step is crucial for achieving the beautiful drape and even stitch definition shown in the photos. Wet block your cardigan by soaking it in lukewarm water with a gentle wool wash, then gently squeeze out excess water (never wring!). Lay flat on blocking mats, pin to the measurements listed, and allow to dry completely.
Customization Options
Feel free to make this cardigan your own! You can easily adjust the sleeve length to full-length, add a simple button band, or even experiment with different colorways. The moss stitch looks stunning in neutral tones, rich jewel tones, or even variegated yarns.
Wear It Your Way
The Olive Grove Cocoon Cardigan is designed to be worn open, draping beautifully over your favorite outfits. Pair it with jeans and a simple tee for casual weekends, or layer it over a dress for a cozy-chic look. The oversized silhouette means it works for virtually any body type, and the dropped shoulders add to the relaxed, effortless vibe.
This pattern is perfect for intermediate knitters looking to expand their skills, or confident beginners ready for a rewarding project. The repetitive moss stitch is meditative and easy to memorize, making this an excellent travel project or TV-watching knit.
We'd love to see your finished Olive Grove Cocoon Cardigan! Share your progress and finished projects on social media using the hashtag #OliveGroveCardigan. Happy knitting!
