Nivis Cloud Cardigan Free Pattern – Knit a Marshmallow-Soft Cocoon Wrap

Wrap Yourself in Clouds: The Nivis Cloud Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Imagine wrapping yourself in a warm, marshmallow-soft hug on a chilly evening. That's exactly the feeling you'll get with the Nivis Cloud Cardigan—a dreamy, oversized knit that combines modern style with ultimate coziness. This beginner-friendly pattern uses a simple yet stunning mock rib stitch to create a soft, vertical texture that resembles gentle cloud ridges. With its cocoon-shaped silhouette, dropped shoulders, and wide, comfortable sleeves, this cardigan is designed to be worn open, draping elegantly over your body like a wearable blanket. Whether you're curling up with a book or heading out for a winter stroll, this cardigan will become your go-to layer for warmth and style.

In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through every step—from gathering your materials to binding off those final stitches—so you can create your very own Nivis Cloud Cardigan at home, even if you're new to knitting.

Materials Needed

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

• Yarn: Super bulky weight yarn (size 6) – approximately 900–1100 yards. Great options include Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick or any similar super bulky yarn. For the classic Nivis look, choose a warm, creamy off-white with hints of ivory and pearl.
• Needles: US 13 (9 mm) circular knitting needles with a 32-inch cable. The long cable is essential for accommodating the wide panels of this oversized cardigan.
• Stitch markers – to help you keep track of your rows and increases.
• Tapestry needle – for weaving in ends and seaming the pieces together.
• Scissors – for cutting yarn.

Gauge: 10 stitches x 14 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch (after blocking). Be sure to check your gauge before starting to ensure your finished cardigan matches the intended measurements.

Sizes and Measurements

This pattern is written for two sizes:

• S/M: Finished chest – 44 inches, length – 24 inches
• M/L: Finished chest – 52 inches, length – 26 inches

Instructions will show S/M first, with M/L in parentheses. Choose the size that best fits your desired ease—remember, this cardigan is meant to be oversized and cozy!

Abbreviations

Familiarize yourself with these standard knitting abbreviations before you begin:

• CO = cast on
• K = knit
• P = purl
• K2tog = knit two together
• P2tog = purl two together
• sl = slip
• wyif = with yarn in front
• rep = repeat
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side

Special Stitch: Mock Rib Stitch

This pattern uses a beautiful, easy-to-memorize stitch that creates a soft, vertical texture. The mock rib stitch is worked over a multiple of 2 + 1 stitches.

Row 1 (RS): K1, *P1, K1; rep from * to end.

Row 2 (WS): P1, *K1, P1; rep from * to end.

Repeat rows 1–2 for the pattern.

This simple two-row repeat creates a subtle ribbed effect that's stretchy, cozy, and perfect for a cloud-like cardigan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Back Panel

Cast On: CO 55 (65) stitches.

Body: Work in Mock Rib Stitch for 24 (26) inches. Keep your tension even and relaxed—this cardigan is meant to be soft and drapey, not stiff.

Bind Off: Bind off loosely. A loose bind-off is crucial here to ensure the shoulders and edges maintain their stretchy, comfortable feel. If you tend to bind off tightly, consider using a larger needle or a stretchy bind-off method.

Left Front Panel

Cast On: CO 28 (33) stitches.

Body: Work in Mock Rib Stitch for 24 (26) inches.

Bind Off: Bind off loosely.

Right Front Panel

Cast On: CO 28 (33) stitches.

Body: Work in Mock Rib Stitch for 24 (26) inches.

Bind Off: Bind off loosely.

Sleeves (Make 2)

Cast On: CO 30 (34) stitches.

Increase Section: Work in Mock Rib Stitch, increasing 1 stitch at each end every 6th row until you have 42 (48) stitches. To increase, simply knit into the front and back of the first and last stitch of the row. This creates a gentle taper that shapes the sleeve.

Continue Even: Once you've reached the desired stitch count, continue working in Mock Rib Stitch without increases until the sleeve measures 18 (19) inches from the cast-on edge.

Bind Off: Bind off loosely.

Assembly

Now it's time to bring all your pieces together. Lay everything flat and take a moment to admire your work—you've knitted an entire cardigan!

Step 1 – Shoulder Seams: Lay the back panel flat. Place the left and right front panels on top, aligning the shoulders. Sew the shoulder seams, leaving approximately 4 inches from the outer edge on each side. This creates the dropped-shoulder effect that gives the Nivis Cloud its relaxed, cocoon-like shape.

Step 2 – Mark Neckline: Mark the center of the back panel's top edge (between the shoulders) to indicate the neckline. This will help you position the sleeves correctly.

Step 3 – Side Seams: Sew the side seams from the underarm down to the bottom edge, leaving armhole openings of about 8 (9) inches. Use stitch markers to mark where the armholes begin and end so you don't accidentally sew them closed.

Step 4 – Set in Sleeves: Match the center of the sleeve cap to the shoulder seam. Pin the sleeve in place, then sew the sleeve into the armhole opening. Repeat for the second sleeve.

Step 5 – Sleeve Seams: Sew the sleeve seams from the underarm to the cuff, closing up the sleeves.

Step 6 – Weave in Ends: Using your tapestry needle, weave in all loose ends carefully. Make sure to secure them well so they don't unravel with wear.

Finishing Touches

Optional Edging: For a polished look, you can add a simple crochet edging around the front opening and neckline. Using a contrasting color or the same yarn, work a single crochet in each row along the front edges and around the neckline. This adds a neat, finished border and helps the cardigan maintain its shape.

Blocking: Block your cardigan lightly to shape. Since this is a super bulky yarn, gentle blocking will help even out the stitches and give the cardigan its beautiful drape. Lay it flat on a towel, gently shape it to the correct measurements, and let it air dry completely.

Wear Your Cloud

Once your Nivis Cloud Cardigan is complete and dry, slip it on and enjoy the feeling of wearing a warm, marshmallow-soft hug. The open front drapes elegantly, the dropped shoulders give it that effortlessly chic look, and the mock rib texture adds visual interest without being fussy.

This cardigan makes a wonderful gift for a loved one (or a well-deserved treat for yourself!). Because the pattern is simple and repetitive, it's perfect for cozy evenings by the fire, knitting while watching your favorite show, or even taking on a road trip.

I'd love to see your finished Nivis Cloud Cardigan! Share your photos, color choices, and any questions in the comments below. Happy knitting!