Blood Moon Cardigan: Free Crochet Pattern for Beginners

Deep burgundy yarn reminds me of autumn leaves falling in the twilight, which is why this cozy layer feels so right for chilly evenings. You get a dense, warm fabric that hangs beautifully on the shoulders without feeling too heavy or stiff. Beginners appreciate how the repeating stitch pattern builds confidence while creating a garment that looks like it came from an expensive boutique. This project teaches you how to maintain consistent tension across large panels so every piece fits together smoothly later. Whether you want to lounge at home or add a handmade touch to your daily outfit, this simple design rewards your time with a wearable result that actually stays in style year after year.

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Why This Project Is Worth Making

The Classic Crochet Granny Square is the quintessential building block for fiber artists because it balances simplicity with endless versatility. You only need to master the double crochet stitch and chain space techniques to produce a square that can be joined into blankets, tote bags, or garments. Because the pattern relies on repeating clusters of stitches, it creates a meditative rhythm that makes it perfect for working on while traveling or during a quiet evening at home. You can easily use leftover yarn from previous projects to create unique, color-blocked squares without needing to purchase new materials for every piece. This specific pattern results in a crisp, balanced square that lies flat without curling, provided you maintain even tension.

I started this project as a way to use up my scrap yarn stash and I am impressed by how quickly these work up. The instructions are very clear and I finally understand how to get that perfect corner finish.

— Sarah, hobbyist crocheter

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

• Skill Level: Beginner
• Approximate Time: 30 to 45 minutes per square
• Construction: Worked in joined rounds, starting from the center and expanding outward
• Finished Dimensions: Approximately 6 inches by 6 inches using medium weight yarn

Materials & Supplies Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight (#4), acrylic or cotton blend, approximately 25 yards per square.
• Hook Size: 5.0 mm (US H-8).
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving ends, sharp scissors.
• Yarn Substitutions: You can use DK weight yarn with a 4.0 mm hook for a smaller square or bulky weight yarn with a 6.0 mm hook for a larger square. Note that changing weight will significantly alter the final dimensions and drape.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch: Chain
• st/sts: Stitch/stitches
• sl st: Slip stitch (insert hook, yarn over, pull through loop and stitch)
• dc: Double crochet (yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops)
• Cluster: A group of 3 dc stitches worked into the same space
• Corner: Ch 2 space created between clusters at the corners of the square

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Foundation and Rounds

1. Foundation: Ch 4, join with a sl st to the first chain to form a ring.
2. Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc into the ring, ch 2. Work [3 dc into ring, ch 2] 3 times. Join with a sl st to the top of the initial ch 3. (12 sts, 4 corner spaces)
3. Rnd 2: Sl st into the next dc and into the first corner space. Ch 3, 2 dc in same space, ch 2, 3 dc in same space (first corner made). Ch 1. *Work [3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in next corner space, ch 1. Repeat from * 2 more times. Join with a sl st to the top of the initial ch 3. (24 sts, 4 corner spaces, 4 side chain spaces)
4. Rnd 3: Sl st into the next dc and into the first corner space. Ch 3, 2 dc in same space, ch 2, 3 dc in same space. Ch 1, 3 dc in the next side chain space, ch 1. *Work [3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in the next corner space. Ch 1, 3 dc in the side chain space, ch 1. Repeat from * 2 more times. Join with a sl st to the top of the initial ch 3. (36 sts, 4 corner spaces, 8 side chain spaces)

Finishing

Fasten off your yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Pull the tail through the final loop to secure the knot. Use your tapestry needle to weave the yarn ends into the back of the clusters, ensuring the thread is hidden within the stitches. If you intend to join multiple squares, leaving longer tails can sometimes assist in the assembly process, but weaving them in is recommended for a clean finish.

Care & Washing Instructions

• Hand wash your finished square in cool water using a gentle detergent specifically designed for wool or acrylic.
• Lay the piece flat on a clean towel, reshaping it gently to its original dimensions, and allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight.
• If the square appears slightly uneven after washing, use a steam iron on a low setting held a few inches above the surface to block the piece into a perfect square.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pay close attention to your tension when working the double crochet stitches. If you notice the square is puckering, you may be pulling your yarn too tightly; try moving up a hook size. Always place a stitch marker in the top of your initial ch 3 at the start of each round to ensure you know exactly where to join your slip stitch at the end. Weave in your ends as you go if you are using multiple colors, as this prevents a time-consuming finishing process once the project is done. Remember that adding more rounds will increase the size linearly, but keep in mind that larger squares require more yarn; calculate your yardage carefully if working on a large blanket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different yarn weight for this pattern?

Yes, you can substitute the yarn weight, but be aware that it will change the finished size of the square. Always check your gauge before starting a large project to ensure your hook and yarn choice produce the texture you want.

Is this pattern suitable for complete beginners?

This pattern is ideal for beginners as it only requires knowledge of chains, double crochet, and slip stitches. It provides excellent practice for maintaining consistent tension over several rounds.

How do I join these squares together?

There are several methods, including single crochet join, slip stitch seam, or mattress stitch using a tapestry needle. The mattress stitch creates a nearly invisible seam, while a single crochet join provides a decorative raised edge.

Can I sell items made from this pattern?

You are welcome to sell physical items made from this pattern, provided you credit the original design and use your own photographs. Please do not redistribute or sell the text of the pattern itself.

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Your finished garment will become your go-to layer on crisp mornings when you need a little extra warmth. You can swap the dark red yarn for a soft mustard or slate grey to completely change the mood of the piece. Please share a photo of your work on your favorite social media site so we can see your color choices in action. If you enjoyed this project, you can find more free patterns available on our blog for your next yarn stash upgrade.