Lunar Haze Oversized Cardigan Free Pattern – Knit a Dreamy Gradient Cocoon

Wrap yourself in the softest clouds with this oversized, color-blocked cardigan that transitions from deep twilight purple to misty lavender. Knit in a cozy brioche stitch, it's the ultimate layering piece for chilly evenings and lazy weekends. This free pattern is perfect for intermediate knitters looking to expand their skills, but with our detailed step-by-step instructions, even confident beginners can tackle this dreamy project. The result is a plush, reversible fabric that feels like a warm hug every time you wear it.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in 3 shades:
  • Deep Plum (A) – approx. 600g
  • Soft Lilac (B) – approx. 400g
  • Pale Lavender (C) – approx. 300g
• Needles: US 9 (5.5mm) circular needles, 32-inch or longer (for the body), plus double-pointed needles or a shorter circular for sleeves
• Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors
• Gauge: 14 stitches and 20 rows = 4 inches in brioche stitch (after blocking). Always knit a gauge swatch first to ensure correct sizing!

Understanding Brioche Stitch

Brioche stitch creates a lofty, ribbed fabric that's reversible and incredibly squishy. It's worked with a combination of slipped stitches and yarn overs. Don't be intimidated – once you get the rhythm, it's meditative and rewarding. Here are the abbreviations you'll need:

• k = knit
• p = purl
• k2tog = knit two together
• p2tog = purl two together
• sl1yo = slip one yarn over (bring yarn to front, slip next stitch purlwise, then bring yarn over needle to back)
• brk = brioche knit (knit together the slipped stitch and its yarn over)
• brp = brioche purl (purl together the slipped stitch and its yarn over)
• yo = yarn over
• pm = place marker
• sm = slip marker

Brioche Stitch Pattern (Flat)

This pattern uses a multiple of 2 + 1 stitches. Work as follows:

• Row 1 (RS): sl1yo, *brk, sl1yo; repeat from * to last 2 sts, brk, k1.
• Row 2 (WS): sl1yo, *brp, sl1yo; repeat from * to last 2 sts, brp, k1.
• Repeat Rows 1-2 for the pattern.

Brioche Stitch Pattern (In the Round)

For sleeves, use this variation:

• Round 1: *sl1yo, brk; repeat from * to end.
• Round 2: *sl1yo, brp; repeat from * to end.
• Repeat Rounds 1-2 for the pattern.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Body (Worked Flat in One Piece)

Note: This cardigan is knit top-down in one piece, then divided for sleeves. Use the long-tail cast-on method for a stretchy edge.

1. Cast On: With yarn A (Deep Plum), cast on 151 stitches using the long-tail method.
2. Initial Brioche: Work in the flat brioche stitch pattern for 10 rows (about 2 inches). This forms the bottom hem of the cardigan.
3. Increase Section: Continue in brioche, but now increase 1 stitch at each end every 6th row. To increase, work a kfb (knit front and back) into the first and last stitch of the row. Repeat these increases until you have 171 stitches total. This creates the A-line silhouette.
4. Work Even: Continue in brioche without increases until the piece measures 12 inches from the cast-on edge.
5. Switch to Yarn B: Change to Soft Lilac (B). Continue in brioche stitch pattern for 8 inches (approximately 20 rows).
6. Switch to Yarn C: Change to Pale Lavender (C). Continue in brioche stitch pattern for 6 inches (approximately 15 rows).

Dividing for Sleeves and Back

Now you'll separate the work into three sections: two fronts and one back.

1. Place Markers: On the next row, place a marker after the first 38 stitches, then place another marker after the next 95 stitches. You should have 38 stitches remaining for the second front. You now have: Front (38 sts), Back (95 sts), Front (38 sts).
2. Work First Front: Work in brioche on the first 38 stitches only (leaving the remaining stitches on the needle or a holder). Continue for 10 inches (about 25 rows), then bind off loosely. Cut yarn, leaving a tail for weaving.
3. Work Back: Attach yarn to the middle 95 stitches. Work in brioche for 10 inches (about 25 rows), then bind off loosely. Cut yarn.
4. Work Second Front: Attach yarn to the last 38 stitches. Work in brioche for 10 inches (about 25 rows), then bind off loosely. Cut yarn.

Sleeves (Worked in the Round)

You'll now pick up stitches around each armhole opening and knit the sleeves downward.

1. Pick Up Stitches: With yarn C (Pale Lavender), pick up and knit 60 stitches evenly around the armhole opening. Use a circular needle (for magic loop) or double-pointed needles. Place a marker at the beginning of the round.
2. Join in the Round: Carefully join, being sure not to twist the stitches.
3. Work Brioche in the Round: Work the round brioche pattern (Round 1: *sl1yo, brk; repeat from * to end. Round 2: *sl1yo, brp; repeat from * to end).
4. Decrease for Taper: Decrease 1 stitch on each side of the marker every 8 rounds. To decrease in brioche, work a k2tog (if it's a knit round) or p2tog (if it's a purl round) on the stitches adjacent to the marker. Continue decreasing until 40 stitches remain.
5. Work Even: Continue in brioche without decreases until the sleeve measures 18 inches from the underarm.
6. Color Changes: Switch to yarn B (Soft Lilac) and work 2 inches. Then switch to yarn A (Deep Plum) and work 2 inches. Bind off loosely.
7. Repeat: Repeat the entire sleeve process for the second armhole.

Finishing Touches

1. Weave in Ends: Use a tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends securely, following the path of the yarn to keep them invisible.
2. Blocking: This step is crucial for brioche! Lay the cardigan flat on a blocking mat. Gently shape it to the desired measurements, pin the edges, and steam lightly (don't press down – just hover the iron). Allow it to dry completely. Blocking opens up the stitches and gives the fabric its beautiful drape.
3. Optional Crochet Edging: For a polished finish, add a simple crochet edging along the front edges and bottom using yarn A. Work a row of single crochet evenly along the edges, then work a row of reverse single crochet (crab stitch) for a clean, decorative finish.

Sizing and Adjustments

This pattern is designed for an oversized fit that accommodates sizes S–XL (bust 34–46 inches). The cocoon silhouette is meant to be roomy and relaxed. To adjust the size, cast on in multiples of 2 + 1 stitches. For a smaller fit, cast on fewer stitches (e.g., 131); for a larger fit, add more (e.g., 171). Remember to adjust the sleeve pick-up count proportionally (approximately 1 stitch for every 2.5 stitches of armhole).

Care Instructions

To keep your Lunar Haze Cardigan looking its best, hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool wash. Gently squeeze out excess water (never wring), then roll in a towel to remove moisture. Lay flat to dry, reshaping as needed. Store folded, not hung, to maintain the fabric's integrity.

We hope you enjoy knitting this dreamy gradient cocoon! The combination of the plush brioche stitch and the soothing color transition makes this a truly special project. Tag us in your finished makes – we'd love to see your Lunar Haze Cardigan!