The Driftwood Cocoon Cardigan: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Chunky, Oversized Woven-Texture Sweater

Wrap Yourself in Texture: Introducing the Driftwood Cocoon Cardigan

There’s something magical about a sweater that feels like a warm hug. The Driftwood Cocoon Cardigan is exactly that—a chunky, oversized, open-front design that mimics the look of handwoven fabric. Using a simple slipped-stitch weave pattern, this modern, relaxed cardigan features deep, roomy pockets and a sculptural silhouette that drapes beautifully. Whether you’re curling up with a book or heading out for a crisp autumn walk, this free knitting pattern is your ticket to cozy, wearable art. Best of all, it’s beginner-friendly and works up quickly on super bulky yarn.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. This pattern uses super bulky weight yarn and large needles for a fast, satisfying knit.

• Yarn: Super Bulky weight yarn (size 6), approximately 900–1100 yards. The sample shown uses a heathered oatmeal color for a natural, driftwood-inspired look.
• Needles:
  • US Size 15 (10 mm) circular knitting needles with a 32-inch cable (for the main panels and sleeves).
  • US Size 15 (10 mm) straight needles (for pocket linings).
• Other: Stitch markers (optional), tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, scissors.

Gauge

Getting the right gauge is essential for the perfect fit. On size 15 needles:

• Stockinette stitch: 8 stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches.
• Weave Pattern: 8 stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches.

Tip: Always knit a gauge swatch in the Weave Pattern to ensure your fabric matches the intended density.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sizes & Abbreviations

Sizes: S/M (L/XL, 2XL/3XL). Finished chest circumference: 52 (60, 68) inches. Instructions are written for the smallest size, with larger sizes in parentheses.

Abbreviations:

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• Sl: Slip stitch purlwise with yarn in back
• K2tog: Knit two together
• St(s): Stitch(es)
• M1L: Make one left (increase)
• M1R: Make one right (increase)

Pattern Notes

• The cardigan is worked flat in two identical rectangular panels (front/back) and two sleeves, then seamed together.
• The Weave Pattern is a simple 2-row repeat that creates a dense, woven look. It’s perfect for beginners who want to try slip stitches.
• All edges are left unadorned for a natural, slightly rolled finish.

Weave Pattern (Multiple of 2 sts + 1)

Work this pattern for all main pieces:

• Row 1 (RS): K1, *Sl1, K1; repeat from * to end.
• Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.
• Repeat Rows 1-2 for the entire piece.

Back Panel

1. CO 53 (61, 69) sts.
2. Work in Weave Pattern until piece measures 26 (28, 30) inches from CO edge.
3. Bind off loosely. Set aside.

Left Front Panel

1. CO 27 (31, 35) sts.
2. Work in Weave Pattern until piece measures 26 (28, 30) inches from CO edge.
3. Bind off loosely. Set aside.

Right Front Panel

1. Work same as Left Front Panel.

Sleeves (Make 2)

1. CO 25 (29, 33) sts.
2. Work in Weave Pattern for 4 inches.
3. Increase Row (RS): K1, M1L, work in pattern to last st, M1R, K1. (2 sts increased)
4. Work 5 rows even (no increases).
5. Repeat the increase row every 6 rows 4 more times. You should now have 35 (39, 43) sts.
6. Continue working even (no further increases) until sleeve measures 18 (19, 20) inches from CO edge.
7. Bind off loosely.

Pocket Linings (Make 2)

1. CO 12 sts.
2. Work in Stockinette stitch (K on RS, P on WS) for 6 inches.
3. Bind off. Set aside.

Assembly

Follow these steps carefully to create your cardigan. Use a tapestry needle and matching yarn for seaming.

1. Sew shoulder seams: Place Back panel and Front panels with right sides together. Sew the top 6 (7, 8) inches of the side edges together for each shoulder. Leave the center 14 (16, 18) inches open for the neck.
2. Sew side seams: With right sides together, sew from the bottom edge up to 10 (11, 12) inches from the shoulder seam, leaving the armhole openings.
3. Set in sleeves: Pin the sleeve cap to the armhole opening, matching the center of the sleeve to the shoulder seam. Sew in place using a whipstitch or mattress stitch.
4. Sew sleeve seams: With right sides together, sew the underarm seam of each sleeve.
5. Attach pockets: Position the pocket linings on the front panels, 4 inches from the bottom edge and 3 inches from the side edge. Sew the sides and bottom of each pocket to the front panel using a whipstitch, leaving the top open.
6. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Trim excess yarn.

Your Driftwood Cocoon Cardigan is now complete! Enjoy the cozy, sculptural warmth of your handmade woven-texture sweater. It’s the perfect layering piece for any season.