Whispering Woods Bear Applique Cardigan Free Pattern – Crochet a Cozy Forest Coat

Whispering Woods Bear Applique Cardigan: A Cozy Forest Coat

Wrap yourself in the warmth of the forest with this open-front crochet cardigan, adorned with a charming bear applique that adds a touch of woodland whimsy. The textured stitch work and earthy palette make it a standout layering piece for any season. Whether you're curling up with a book or heading out for an autumn stroll, this handcrafted cardigan brings cozy, nature-inspired style to your wardrobe.

This pattern is perfect for intermediate crocheters looking to expand their skills, but beginners who are comfortable with basic stitches will also find it achievable. The cardigan is worked in panels and seamed together, with the adorable bear applique crocheted separately and attached—making it a fun, rewarding project that results in a truly unique garment.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies:

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in three colors:
  • Main Color (MC): Warm oatmeal – approximately 1200 yards
  • Contrast Color 1 (CC1): Deep forest green – approximately 200 yards
  • Contrast Color 2 (CC2): Rich cocoa brown – approximately 150 yards
• Hook: 5.5 mm (I-9) crochet hook
• Notions: Yarn needle for seaming and weaving in ends, stitch markers

Gauge: 14 dc x 8 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in pattern stitch. Always check your gauge to ensure proper fit.

Sizes: S/M (M/L) – instructions for M/L are given in parentheses throughout.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Back Panel

Row 1: With MC, chain 76 (84). Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each ch across. Turn. (74 (82) dc)

Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in next dc, *ch 1, skip next dc, dc in next dc; repeat from * across, ending with dc in top of turning ch. Turn.

Row 3: Ch 3, dc in next dc, *dc in ch-1 space, dc in next dc; repeat from * across. Turn. (74 (82) dc)

Repeat Rows 2-3 until piece measures 20 (22) inches from start. Fasten off.

Left Front Panel

Row 1: With MC, chain 38 (42). Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each ch across. Turn. (36 (40) dc)

Work same pattern as back (Rows 2-3) until piece measures 18 (20) inches.

Shape neck: Next row, work across first 30 (34) dc, leave remaining 6 dc unworked for neck edge. Continue in pattern on these 30 (34) sts for 2 more inches. Fasten off.

Right Front Panel

Work same as left front, but mirror the neck shaping (work last 30 (34) dc, leave first 6 dc unworked).

Sleeves (Make 2)

Row 1: With MC, chain 40 (44). Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each ch across. Turn. (38 (42) dc)

Work in pattern (Rows 2-3 of back), increasing 1 dc at each end every 4th row until you have 50 (54) dc. Continue even until sleeve measures 18 (19) inches. Fasten off.

Bear Applique (Make 1)

Body: With CC2, magic ring, 6 sc in ring. Round 2: 2 sc in each sc (12). Round 3: (sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc) around (18). Rounds 4-6: sc in each sc (18). Fasten off, leaving long tail.

Head: With CC2, magic ring, 6 sc. Round 2: 2 sc in each sc (12). Round 3: (sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc) around (18). Rounds 4-5: sc in each sc (18). Fasten off, leaving tail.

Ears (make 2): With CC2, magic ring, 6 sc. Round 2: 2 sc in each sc (12). Fasten off, leaving tail.

Muzzle: With CC1, magic ring, 6 sc. Round 2: 2 sc in each sc (12). Fasten off.

Assembly of bear: Sew head to body, ears to head, muzzle to head. Embroider eyes and nose with CC1.

Assembly

Sew shoulder seams. Set in sleeves, then sew side and sleeve seams. Attach bear applique to left front panel, about 2 inches from bottom edge and 3 inches from center front.

Edging

With CC1, sc evenly around entire front opening and bottom edge. Work 2 rounds of sc. Fasten off. Weave in all ends.

Pro Tips for Success

• Count your stitches: The ch-1 spaces in Row 2 can be easy to miss. Use stitch markers at the beginning of each repeat if needed.
• Block your pieces: Before seaming, gently block each panel to ensure accurate measurements and a professional finish.
• Customize your bear: Feel free to add a tiny scarf or bow to your bear applique for extra personality!

This Whispering Woods Bear Applique Cardigan is more than just a garment—it's a wearable piece of art that brings the serenity of the forest into your everyday life. The textured stitch pattern creates visual interest while remaining cozy and warm. Whether you gift it to a loved one or keep it for yourself, this cardigan is sure to become a treasured favorite. Happy crocheting!