31 Free Baby Sweater Knitting Patterns (Easy Ideas)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.This post will show 31 free baby sweater knitting patterns (easy ideas).
Adorable and fun hand-knit baby clothes are a great idea if you want a baby shower gift for a dear friend or a family member.
There is not such a thing as too many baby clothes and knitted gifts are treasured.
And if you’re looking for something more personal and handcrafted, knitted baby sweaters are the way to go.
31 Free Baby Sweater Knitting Patterns
Choose a baby sweater pattern for your next WIP from the list below, and bookmark the rest for later.
Happy Knitting!
Easy Baby Cardigan Knitting Pattern
Make your little one a cardigan for the warmer weather with this easy baby cardigan knitting pattern.
This garter stitch cardigan would make a special gift for a baby shower and give you the perfect opportunity to show off your knitting skills.
This pattern uses the stockinette stitch, perfect for advanced beginner knitters.
Sizes: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, and 6-9 months.
Easy Baby Sweater Knitting Pattern For Beginners
Make this easy baby sweater knitting pattern for beginners with step-by-step photographs to guide you.
If you are learning how to knit, modern baby knitting patterns are great to start with before you move on to more complicated patterns that include cables and other advanced techniques.
Sizes: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, and 6-9 months.
Baby Cardigan Pattern {Stockinette Stitch}
In this post, you will see a baby cardigan knitting pattern for beginners with photographs to help you along the way.
You will need to know the techniques of casting on, casting off, knitting in garter stitch, knitting 1×1 ribbing, decreasing through K2tog, and picking up stitches.
The baby cardigan is knit in five pieces: the back, two fronts, and two sleeves.
All are knit flat with straight needles and later seamed to finish.
Sizes: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, and 6-9 months.
Unisex Boatneck Sweater in Rowan Summerlite 4 Ply by Rowan
Make an adorable sweater with this free pattern.
A great gift for new moms!
The pattern is available for free on the Love Crafts website.
Sizes: Newborn - 2 Years.
Tiny Treasures Sweater in West Yorkshire Spinners Bo Peep 4 Ply by Sarah Hatton
Make an adorable sweater with the Tiny Treasures sweater knitting pattern.
Perfect for intermediate knitters.
The pattern is available for free on the Love Crafts website.
Sizes 7lbs, 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-9 months, 9-12 months, 12-18 months.
French Macaroon Pattern by The Noble Thread
Knit a cute baby sweater with this free easy knitting pattern.
The French dessert macaroon inspires this pattern, and your baby will look absolutely adorable in it.
The pattern is available for free on Ravelry.
Sizes newborn, 3 months, 6-9 months, 12-18 months, 2-3 years, 4 years.
Snow Baby by DROPS Design
Make a knitted cardigan to keep your baby warm in the colder months with this free knitting pattern.
This super cute jacket is a great gift for a baby shower.
Plus, there are video tutorials to help you along.
Sizes 1-3 months, 6-9 months, 12-18 months, 2 years, 3-4 years.
Heirloom Cables Baby Sweater in Lion Brand Vanna's Choice
Make a cable knit baby sweater is for those of you who love cable knitting!
Knit in Aran weight yarn, this sweater is perfect for all seasons.
The pattern is available for free on the Love Crafts website.
Sizes to fit chest: 51cm/20in to 61cm/24in.
Iseline Sweater in Phildar Phil Ecocoton & Phil Coton 3
Make an adorable sweater with an interesting design.
This cute sweater is from Phildar yarns and is an intermediate-level pattern.
The pattern is available for free on the Love Crafts website.
Sizes 6 months to 4 years.
Moss Stitch Baby Pullover by Noro
This lovely moss stitch sweater is knit in Noro silk garden.
A great pattern for all knitters to make cute pullover sweaters.
The pattern is available for free on the Love Crafts website.
Sizes to fit age: 9 to 36 Months.
Top Down Raglan Childs Sweater by Carole Barenys
Make a knit top-down baby sweater with this free pattern.
It is a quick knit with adorable raglan sleeves.
It's a great gift for new moms.
Sizes newborn-3 months.
Bernat Knit Poncho Pullover Pattern by Yarnspirations
Make an adorable, super soft pullover with this free knitting pattern.
It's an easy knit with short sleeves.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Sizes 6-24 months.
Bubble Stitch Boatneck by Cascade Yarns
Knit a cute sweater for your baby with this free pattern.
The sweater is made with light fingering weight cascade yarn.
The pattern is available for free on the Love Crafts website.
Sizes to fit chest: 20 to 25in.
Wee Watson by Taiga Hilliard Designs
Knit an adorable sweater for babies with this free pattern.
The design has a crew neck, raglan shaping on the sleeves, and fastening for easy dressing.
The pattern is available for free on Ravelry.
Sizes: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-12 months, and 12-18 months.
Checco's Dream by DROPS Design
Make a baby cardigan with this free pattern.
This sweater is knit in moss stitch and bottom-up.
It's a great gift for a baby shower.
Sizes 1/3 - 6/9 - 12/18 months (2 - 3/4) years.
Fairy Tale Cardi Pattern by Lion Brand Yarns
Knit an adorable sweater with this free pattern.
It's an intermediate pattern, knit with bulky yarn.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Sizes 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-18 months, 2-3 years.
Little Fox by DROPS Design
Knit a sweater with a graphic fox design with this free pattern.
This is the perfect baby sweater for fall.
Plus, there are video tutorials and charts to help you along.
Sizes 1/3 - 6/9 - 12/18 months, 2 - 3/4 years, 5/6 years, 7/8 years.
Beginner Baby Sweater Knitting Pattern by Gina Michelle
In this blog post, you will see how to knit a baby sweater for beginners.
An adorable sweater you will love to make.
A great gift for a baby shower.
Sizes 12-18 months.
Crewneck Baby Sweater Pattern by Lion Brand Yarns
Make a baby sweater with stripes with this free knitting pattern.
This is a great pattern for advanced makers.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Sizes 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-18 months, 2 years, and 3 years.
Teddy Bear Sweater – Pattern & Tutorial by Creativa Atelier
In this blog post, you will see how to knit a teddy bear sweater for babies.
It's soft and cozy, perfect for a baby.
Plus, there are step-by-step photos to help you along.
Sizes Newborn.
Red Heart Baby Sports Fan Pullover Pattern by Yarnspirations
Make a super cute baby pullover with this free pattern.
An easy knit, perfect for all makers.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Sizes 6 months, 12 months, 18 months.
Checkerboard Pullover by Rachel Brockman
Make a fun baby sweater with this free knitting pattern.
It's great to make for a baby shower.
The pattern is available for free on the Universal Yarns website.
Sizes 3-6 months 1-10 years.
Strawberry Seed Knit Baby Sweater Pattern by Knitting With Chopsticks
In this blog post, you will see how to knit a baby sweater.
It is a great project for all makers.
Plus, there are step-by-step photos to help you along.
Sizes 3-24 months.
Little Dancer by DROPS Design
Knit a cute baby sweater with this free pattern.
The pattern includes intarsia work.
Plus, there are video tutorials and charts to help you along.
Sizes available are 1-3 months, 6-9 months, 12-18 months, and 2- 3/4 years.
Red Heart Pretty-N-Pink Pullover Pattern by Yarnspirations
Make a baby sweater with this free knitting pattern.
Knit in stockinette stitch this is a great pattern for all makers.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Sizes 12-24 months.
Skipper Sweater by Universal Yarns
Make an adorable striped sweater with this free pattern.
Knit one for your baby or as a gift.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Sizes 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years, 4 years.
Sunday Morning Baby Pullover by Premier Yarns
Make a baby sweater with this free knitting pattern.
Knit one for your baby or as a gift.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Sizes chest: 17 ¾ (19 ¼, 21)” - length: 10 ¼ (10 ¾, 11 ½)”
Litte William`s Body by DROPS Design
Knit a baby sweater with this free pattern.
The pattern includes colorwork.
Plus, there are video tutorials and charts to help you along.
Sizes available are 1-3 months, 6-9 months, 12-18 months, and 2 - 3/4 years.
Classic Baby Sweater by Jean Elizabeth Studio
Knit a cute baby sweater with this free pattern.
The pattern includes colorwork and it's perfect for experienced knitters.
The pattern is available as a free PDF.
Hello Stripes by DROPS Design
Knit a baby sweater with stripes with this free pattern,
The pattern includes colorwork and raglan shaping
Plus, there are video tutorials and charts to help you along.
Sizes 1-3 months. 6-9 months, 12-18 months, 2 - 3/4 years.
Summer Fruit by DROPS Design
Knit an adorable baby sweater with this free pattern.
This sweater is perfect from spring to fall.
Plus, there are video tutorials and charts to help you along.
Sizes 1-3 months, 6-9 months, 12-18 months, 2 - 3/4 years.
Knitted Sweaters And Cardigans
Knitted baby sweaters and cardigans are an excellent gift idea for a friend who is expecting a family member or even for your own baby.
Your little ones will look absolutely adorable in their knitted sweaters; they will be kept warm and toasty in the colder seasons.
Plus, if you decide to make one as a gift, your friends will be moved by your handmade offering.
Weekly news, free patterns, tutorials, and more.
Find the right baby sweater pattern for you
There are a variety of baby sweater knitting patterns that you can find online.
You and your loved ones will love many designs, from classic button-down cardigans that never go out of style to modern color-block sweaters.
These patterns are for all knitters, from beginners to advanced. Some have easy garter stitch patterns, and others have more complicated stitches, like fair isle and cable designs.
Check out more garment patterns here – Sweaters + Cardigans
What Yarn Weight Is The Best For A Baby Sweater?
When it comes to selecting the best yarn weight for a baby’s cardigan, it ultimately depends on the specific pattern you’re using.
However, in general, it’s recommended to opt for lighter yarn weights that are appropriate for baby garments.
Some common yarn weights that are suitable for baby cardigans include fingering weight yarn (super fine), sport weight yarn (fine), DK weight yarn, and worsted weight yarn (medium).
While fingering weight is very lightweight and creates delicate, dainty garments that are perfect for mild weather, sport weight provides a good balance between warmth and breathability.
DK weight works well for slightly warmer baby cardigans, while worsted weight provides good warmth and is suitable for cooler weather.
When selecting yarn weight, it’s important to consider the season and climate.
Lighter weights suit warmer weather, while heavier weights provide more warmth for colder climates.
It’s always crucial to check the pattern you’re using for specific recommendations regarding yarn weight and gauge to achieve the desired size and fit for the baby cardigan or sweater.
What Yarn Fiber Is The Best For A Baby Sweater?
When choosing yarn for a baby’s cardigan, consider softness, ease of care, and durability.
Here are some popular yarn choices for baby garments:
- Cotton: Cotton yarn is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for baby garments. It’s also easy to care for and can withstand frequent washing.
- Acrylic: Acrylic yarn is often chosen for baby projects because it’s affordable, easy to care for, and available in a wide range of colors. It’s machine washable and durable.
- Blends: Yarn blends, such as cotton and acrylic or wool and nylon, can combine the best qualities of different fibers. For example, a cotton/acrylic blend might offer softness, breathability, and durability.
When selecting yarn, also consider the season and climate.
Lighter, breathable fibers are suitable for warmer weather, while warmer fibers may be more appropriate for colder climates.
- Learn everything about yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}
- Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers
- Learn how to read a yarn label here – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)
What Supplies Do You Need To Knit A Baby Sweater?
To knit a sweater, you’ll need several essential supplies.
Select knitting needles appropriate for the yarn weight; the pattern will specify the size needed to achieve the correct gauge.
Other essential tools include stitch markers to indicate pattern sections, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and scissors for cutting yarn.
Additionally, having a tape measure on hand helps ensure accurate sizing.
Depending on the design, you might need other tools, such as cable needles for cable patterns or double-pointed needles for sleeves.
Finally, a row counter can be handy for tracking progress.
How Long Does It Take To Knit A Baby Sweater?
Knitting a baby sweater can take a varying amount of time, depending on several factors.
These factors include knitting speed, pattern complexity, sweater size, and yarn and needle size.
If you are using a simple pattern with minimal stitch patterns or embellishments, you may be able to complete a small baby sweater within a week or two of casual knitting.
However, it may take longer if the pattern involves intricate stitch patterns, cables, or colorwork.
Complex patterns can slow the knitting process, and you might need more time to focus on the details.
Great For Anyone Who Is New To Knitting
A baby sweater or cardigan knitting pattern would be an excellent project for anyone who wants to start making knitted garments, as they are smaller and less overwhelming for a beginner knitter.
You can practice basic knitting stitches like garter stitch, stockinette stitch, and moss stitch, as well as learn how to shape through increases and decreases.
If you’re thinking about knitting a baby sweater, check out these patterns below, and you might find your next project.
Knitting Lessons
If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).
There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.
Including how to cast on, how to knit the basic knit stitches, how to knit the knit stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, the mattress stitch, short rows, and a list of knitting abbreviations, and more.
For easier projects, check out this pattern category. There, you will find a range of knitting patterns – Beginner Knitters.
And if you need more video tutorials to help you practice your basic knitting skills , check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.
More Baby Knitting Patterns
- How To Knit A Baby Hat (Straight Needles)
- Baby Blanket Pattern (Patchwork + 4 Stitch Patterns)
- How To Knit Baby Booties (Step By Step)
- Baby Slippers Knitting Pattern
- Bunny Softie Pattern (Easy To Knit)
- Easter Chick Slippers Pattern {+ Loop Stitch Tutorial}
- Easter Bunny Hat {Knit Flat}
- Bunny Ears Headband {With Knitted Ears}
- Corner To Corner Baby Blanket Pattern
- 31 Free Baby Blanket Knitting Patterns (Easy Knit Blankets)
- Baby Beanie Hat Pattern (Cable Knit)
- Heart Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern
- Easy Baby Blanket Knitting Pattern (Broken Rib Stitch)
- Baby Socks Knitting Pattern (Stripes)
- Bunny Booties Knitting Pattern
- Cable Knit Baby Blanket Pattern
- Sheep Baby Booties Knitting Pattern
