31 Cardigan Knitting Patterns (Free + Easy Ideas)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.This blog post will show 31 Cardigan Knitting Patterns (Free + Easy Ideas).
Including long cardigans, jackets, and cardigans for spring and winter.
Plus, you will learn everything you need to know about making a cardigan.
Cardigan Knitting Patterns
Wrap yourself in comfort and style with our collection of cardigan knitting patterns.
From classic designs that exude timeless elegance to contemporary styles that reflect modern trends, our patterns offer something for every knitter.
Whether you're a seasoned crafter seeking a new challenge or a beginner eager to embark on your knitting journey, our curated selection features a variety of techniques, yarn weights, and sizes to suit your preferences.
Happy Knitting!
Chunky Cardigan Knitting Pattern
This chunky cardigan knitting pattern is an easy knit for anyone who is looking to make their first garment.
Knit only in garter stitch, the cardigan has simple shaping through increases and decreases.
This chunky cardigan knitting pattern is an easy knit for anyone who is looking to make their first garment.
Free Easy Cardigan Knitting Pattern (Straight Needles)
In this post, I want to share with you a super cozy, free, easy cardigan knitting pattern for beginners with straight needles.
This cardigan has an oversized fit, making it really soft and comforting to wrap yourself up for everyday wear during the colder months.
Wear it at home, with jeans, leggings, a lounge suit, or your PJs; anything goes, really!
Irish Moss Stitch Cardigan Knitting Pattern
In this post, I want to share with you the Irish moss stitch cardigan pattern.
This cardigan has an oversized fit, which makes it perfect to wear with your fall outfits.
This cardigan knitting pattern is an intermediate level for anyone who is an experienced knitter.
Cardigan Knitting Pattern (Fall Comfort)
In this post, you will see an easy cardigan knitting pattern.
This cardigan is really soft and comforting due to the drape and fit.
This pure comfort cardigan is wonderful for the fall/winter months when there is a chill in the air or a storm is coming over.
Rainbow Cardigan Knitting Pattern (5 Sizes)
In this pattern post, I want to share with you a very colorful rainbow cardigan knitting pattern.
This cardigan is soft and comforting due to the drape and fit.
It’s designed to make you smile and feel happy while wearing it!
Cotton Comfort Easy Knit Cardigan Pattern
In this pattern post, I want to share with you the cotton comfort easy knit cardigan pattern.
This cardigan is really soft and comforting due to the drape and fit.
It’s baggy and cozy, it wraps around you, and somehow you feel comforted just wearing it!
Claire's Modern Blue Cardigan (Seersucker Stitch)
In this post, you will see a modern version of Claire’s Blue Cardigan.
Inspired by the cardigan seen worn by Claire in Outlander seasons 5 and 6.
This cardigan has lots of texture as it is knit in the seersucker stitch pattern.
Outlander Claire's Blue Cardigan Knitting Pattern
In this post, you will see Outlander Claire’s Blue Cardigan Knitting Pattern.
Knit with raglan sleeves, this cardigan is fairly easy to construct and seam.
The cardigan is fitted, so for a bit more comfort, I would suggest knitting it in a size up.
My Comfiest Knit Cardigan by Mama In A Stitch
In this blog post, you will see how to knit a cardigan.
A cozy cardigan that's perfect for fall.
Knit one for you or as a gift.
Simple Raglan Cardigan Knitting Pattern by Lee Lee Knits
In this blog post, you will see a simple cardigan pattern.
All you need is 10 mm knitting needles and worsted weight yarn.
Knit one for fall.
Knit Betty Cardigan by Sewrella
In this blog post, you will see a stylish cardigan pattern.
Made with Lion Brand bulky yarn and US size 11 knitting needles.
Plus, there are step-by-step photos to help you along.
Desert Mirage Cardigan by DROPS Design
Make a beautiful cardigan with this free pattern.
This garment is knitted from the top down.
Plus, there are videos to help you along.
Cliffside Cardigan Free Knitting Pattern by Two Of Wands
In this post, you will see a cozy cardigan knitting pattern.
A comfy jacket to wear from fall to spring.
Plus, it has pockets!
Country Muse Cardigan by DROPS Design
Knit a top down cardigan with this free pattern.
With a double thick collar neck design.
Plus, there are videos to help you along.
The Jackie O Cardigan by Twin Stitches Design
In this blog post, you will see a chunky cardigan knitting pattern.
Made with super bulky weight yarn, it's perfect for winter.
Add big buttons to make your cardigan even more unique.
Folklore Cardigan by Lion Brand Yarns
Knit a beautiful cardigan with this free knitting pattern
It's an intermediate pattern, perfect for experienced makers.
You can grab the free PDF on the Lion Brand Yarns website.
Oasis Cardigan by Letizia De Antoniis
Knit a unique cardigan with this free pattern.
With a bell sleeve design, it's comfortable to wear all day.
You can grab the free PDF on the Yarnalia website.
Mahonia by Marie Amelie Designs
Make a light cardigan with this free knitting pattern.
Knit with fingering weight yarn; it's perfect for the warmer months.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Anneli by Filcolana
Make a beautiful spring cardigan with this free pattern.
The cardigan is available in sizes XS-XXL.
You can grab the free PDF on the Filcolana website.
Minetta by by Kirsten Kapur
In this blog post, you will a cardigan free knitting pattern.
The pattern is available in sizes XS-3X.
Knit one for you or as a gift.
Folded Squares Cardigan by Purl Soho
In this blog post, you will see how to knit a cardigan.
Make one for fall.
Plus, there are photos to help you along.
Retro by Kristen Finlay
Make a striped cardigan with this free knitting pattern.
It's a great pattern for all makers.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Water Point by DROPS Design
Knit a comfy cardigan with this free knitting pattern.
Made with stockinette stitch, it's a great garment pattern for new makers.
Plus, there are video tutorials to help you along.
Cloud Cardi by Emily Bolduan
Make a hand-knit cardigan with this free knitting pattern.
Knit in garter stitch it is the right pattern for beginners.
With a relaxed fit, it's great for any body type.
Grab the free PDF on Ravelry.
Sailor Blues Jacket by DROPS Design
Knit a comfy cardigan with this free knitting pattern.
Made with stockinette stitch, it's a great garment pattern for new makers.
Plus, there are video tutorials to help you along.
Patons Lapel Knit Cardigan Pattern by Yarnspirations
Knit a cozy cardigan with this free pattern.
This is an easy knit, great for all knitters.
You can grab the free PDF on the Yarnspirations website.
Mrs. Doubtfire Cardigan by Lion Brand Yarns
Knit an iconic cardigan with this free pattern.
It's perfect to pair with a T-shirt and a pair of jeans
You can grab the free PDF on the Lion Brand Yarns website.
Penelope’s Cardigan by Universal Yarn
Knit a long cardigan with this free pattern.
The pattern is available in sizes XS-3X.
You can grab the free PDF on the Universal Yarn website.
Knitted Mohair Cardigan - Cloud Cardi by Creativa Atelier
In this blog post, you will see a knitted cardigan pattern.
Made with mohair yarn, this cardigan is super soft.
Plus, there is a photo tutorial to help you along.
Chunky Cropped Cardigan Free Knitting Pattern | Pink Wildflowers Sweater by Ashley Lillis
In this blog post, you will see how to knit a cropped cardigan.
Made with super bulky yarn, it’s perfect for the colder months.
Plus there is a video tutorial to help you along.
Comfy Colors Cardigan Knitting Pattern by Mama In A Stitch
In this blog post, you will see how to knit a cardigan easily.
It’s a beginner-friendly pattern that's great for all makers
It’s perfect to wear from fall to spring.
Are Cardigans Easy To Knit?
The ease of knitting a cardigan can depend on the specific pattern and your level of knitting experience.
While some cardigan patterns are designed with simplicity in mind, others may involve more intricate stitch patterns, shaping, or seaming, making them more suitable for intermediate or advanced knitters.
If you’re a beginner, starting with a straightforward cardigan pattern that uses basic stitches and minimal shaping can be a good way to build your skills.
Look for patterns labeled as “easy” or “beginner-friendly” and choose yarn that is easy to work with, such as a smooth worsted weight yarn.
Regardless of your skill level, reading the pattern thoroughly before starting and understanding the required techniques and construction methods will contribute to a smoother knitting process.
Video tutorials and step-by-step guides can also be helpful if you encounter unfamiliar techniques.
Can I knit a cardigan on straight needles?
Yes, it is possible to knit a cardigan using straight needles.
Many cardigan patterns are designed to be knit flat in separate pieces, typically a front and a back panel, and then seamed together at the sides and sometimes the shoulders.
When using straight needles, you would knit back and forth in rows, turning the work at the end of each row.
What Is The Best Yarn For Cardigans?
Selecting the best yarn for cardigans depends on the desired characteristics of the finished garment and personal preferences.
Merino wool is a popular choice for cardigans due to its exceptional softness, warmth, and versatility.
It offers excellent stitch definition, making it suitable for intricate patterns, cables, and textured stitches.
Merino wool is also available in various weights, allowing knitters to create anything from lightweight, drapey cardigans to cozy, winter-ready layers.
For those seeking breathability and coolness, cotton yarns are an excellent option, making them suitable for warmer climates or transitional seasons.
Cotton blends, incorporating fibers like linen or bamboo, enhance the durability and drape of the yarn.
If warmth and luxury are a priority, cashmere blends provide an indulgent touch, though they may come at a higher price point.
While natural fibers like wool and cotton can have specific care needs, some knitters may prefer machine-washable options, such as superwash wool or acrylic blends, for added convenience.
- 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
What Are The Best Knitting Needles For Cardigans?
The best knitting needles for cardigans depend on the specific pattern, your knitting style, and personal preference.
Here are some common types of knitting needles suitable for cardigan projects:
- Circular Needles: Circular knitting needles are versatile and well-suited for knitting cardigans, especially if the pattern is worked in one piece or features a large number of stitches. Circular needles come in various lengths, and the cable connecting the needles holds the stitches, distributing the weight more evenly.
- Interchangeable Needle Sets: These sets offer flexibility by allowing you to switch needle tips and cable lengths. They are particularly useful for cardigans that may involve different stitch patterns, needle sizes, or various sections like sleeves and body.
- Double-Pointed Needles (DPNs): DPNs are ideal for knitting small, circular sections such as sleeves or cuffs. Some cardigan patterns may include DPNs for specific parts of the project.
- Needle Size: Choose the needle size recommended in the pattern or required to achieve the correct gauge. Swatching with the chosen yarn and needles is essential to ensure the cardigan fits properly.
How Long Does It Take A Beginner To Knit A Cardigan?
The time it takes for a beginner to knit a cardigan can vary widely based on several factors, including the complexity of the pattern, the chosen yarn weight, the knitter’s familiarity with basic techniques, and the amount of time dedicated to the project.
As a general guideline, a straightforward and relatively simple cardigan pattern may take a beginner several weeks to a few months to complete, assuming they are working on it consistently.
What Supplies Do You Need To Knit A Cardigan?
To knit a cardigan, you’ll need a few essential supplies to ensure a successful and enjoyable crafting experience.
Aside from the pattern, your yarn, and the needles, don’t forget to gather basic knitting tools such as stitch markers, a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and scissors for cutting yarn.
If the pattern involves buttons or other closures, have those on hand as well.
Lastly, a measuring tape is essential for checking gauge and ensuring the cardigan fits according to the pattern specifications.
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.
And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.
More Free Knitting Patterns
- Oversized Chunky Knit Sweater Pattern
- Men’s Aran Sweater Knitting Pattern
- Striped Sweater Knitting Pattern
- Chunky Turtleneck Sweater Knitting Pattern
- Pumpkin Sweater Knitting Pattern (Free + Easy)
- Scrap Yarn Shawl Knitting Pattern
- Easy Top-Down Crescent Shawl Knitting Pattern
- 10 Summer Cardigan Knitting Patterns
- 16 Top Down Sweater Knitting Patterns (Free + Easy)
- Circular Knitting: Bottom-Up Sweater Knit In The Round
