27 Free Vest Knitting Patterns (Cozy + Stylish)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.This blog post will show 27 free vest kniting patterns (cozy+stylish).
Whether you’re looking for a casual, everyday vest to keep you warm or a chic, tailored piece to elevate your outfit, these patterns offer a wide range of designs to suit any style.
From simple, beginner-friendly projects to more intricate patterns featuring cables, colorwork, and textured stitches, there’s something here for knitters of all skill levels.
Dive into these patterns to find your next knitting project and create a beautiful, handmade vest that combines comfort and fashion.
Free Vest Knitting Patterns
If you are ready to make your own vest, check out the free patterns below, and you might find your next project.
Isla Slipover by DROPS Design
This knitted vest is crafted in luxurious DROPS Wish or two strands of DROPS Air, offering a soft and cozy texture.
The design features a sleek stockinette stitch body with ribbed edges, creating a polished look with added comfort.
The vest also includes stylish side splits, making it a versatile and flattering piece for layering in sizes S to XXXL.
Audrey Vest by DROPS Design
This is a chic and versatile piece knitted in soft DROPS Sky, featuring a smooth stockinette stitch body with ribbed edges for a clean finish.
The vest is designed with a flattering V-neck and stylish side splits, making it perfect for layering.
Available in sizes S to XXXL, this vest is both comfortable and elegant, ideal for adding a refined touch to any outfit.
Rose Blush by DROPS Design
This knitted vest, crafted in DROPS Sky, features a simple yet elegant design with ribbed edging that adds texture and structure.
The vest is enhanced with side splits, offering a modern touch and ease of movement.
Available in sizes S to XXXL, it’s a versatile piece that can be effortlessly layered for any season.
Diamond Sky Vest by DROPS Design
The diamond sky vest is a beautifully textured piece, knitted in DROPS Lima or DROPS Merino Extra Fine, featuring intricate cables and a striking textured pattern.
The design includes a double neck edge and sleeve edges, adding to its refined, detailed finish.
Available in sizes S to XXXL, this vest combines elegance with warmth, making it a standout addition to any wardrobe.
Free Bernat Knit Cable Vest Pattern by Yarnspiratons
This cozy cable vest is crafted with Bernat yarn, featuring a classic cable pattern that adds texture and warmth.
The vest is designed with a relaxed fit, making it perfect for layering over your favorite shirts or turtlenecks.
Ideal for knitters looking to create a timeless piece, this vest offers both comfort and style for cooler weather.
Available in sizes XS to 5XL.
Grab the free PDF on Yarnspirations.
Free Patons Wellesley Knit Vest Pattern by Yarnspiratons
This stylish knit vest, made with Patons yarn, features a sleek and modern design perfect for layering.
The vest is worked with a smooth stockinette stitch and includes a high neckline and ribbed edges for a polished finish.
This is a seamless vest that requires minimal construction.
Grab the free PDF on Yarnspirations.
Fuzzy Vest by We Are Knitters
This versatile vest is a luxurious and soft knitting project that features a simple, modern design perfect for cozy layering.
Knit with a plush, fuzzy yarn, this vest offers warmth and a chic texture, making it a stylish addition to any wardrobe.
With its straightforward construction, this pattern is suitable for knitters of all levels who want to create a trendy and comfortable garment.
Free Caron Cable Mix Knit Turtleneck Vest Pattern by Yarnspiratons
This stylish turtleneck vest features a mix of intricate cable patterns that add texture and visual interest.
The vest is designed with a cozy turtleneck and a relaxed fit, making it perfect for layering during cooler weather.
Its blend of classic cables and modern design elements makes it a versatile piece that can elevate any outfit.
All you need is worsted-weight yarn and US 7 and 8 knitting needles.
Grab the free PDF on Yarnspirations.
Free Red Heart Check Knit Vest Pattern by Yarnspiratons
This trendy knit vest, made with Red Heart yarn, features a bold check pattern that adds a modern twist to a classic design.
The vest is perfect for layering, with a relaxed fit and ribbed edges that provide both comfort and style.
Its eye-catching design makes it a versatile piece, ideal for adding a statement look to any outfit.
Grab the free PDF on Yarnspirations.
Free Red Heart Knit Turtleneck Vest With Side Slits Pattern by Yarnspiratons
This design features stylish slits on the sides of the vest that add both comfort and a contemporary flair to the garment.
The vest is designed with a cozy turtleneck and a relaxed fit, making it perfect for layering over your favorite tops.
Its modern silhouette and versatile style make it an excellent addition to any wardrobe, ideal for cooler weather.
Grab the free PDF on Yarnspirations.
Free Red Heart Knit Cozy Style Vest Pattern by Yarnspiratons
This cardigan vest, crafted with Red Heart yarn, offers a relaxed fit and simple design, perfect for everyday wear.
The vest features clean lines and ribbed edges, making it a versatile layering piece that adds warmth without sacrificing style.
Its straightforward construction makes it an ideal project for knitters looking to create a comfortable and practical wardrobe staple.
Grab the free PDF on Yarnspirations.
Women's Shawl Collar Vest by Plymouth Yarn
This elegant shawl collar vest, knit with Plymouth Yarn De Aire, features a sophisticated design with a cozy shawl collar that adds both warmth and style.
This longer vest is designed with a flattering fit, making it perfect for layering over tops and blouses for a polished look.
Its classic and versatile design makes it an ideal piece for any wardrobe, combining comfort with a touch of elegance.
Grab the free PDF on Love Crafts.
Living Your Best Vest by Paintbox Yarns
This fashionable vest offers a modern and cozy design that’s perfect for staying warm in style.
The pattern features a chunky texture and a relaxed fit, making it an ideal layering piece for cooler weather.
With its simple construction and bold look, this vest is both easy to knit and versatile, adding a trendy touch to any outfit.
A simple vest that's perfect for makers of any skill level.
Grab the free PDF on Love Crafts.
Snug Season Sweater Vest by Paintbox Yarns
This snug sweater vest is designed to keep you warm and stylish during cooler seasons.
The pattern features a classic slipover design with ribbed edges, offering a comfortable and cozy fit.
Perfect for layering over shirts or turtlenecks, this feminine vest is a versatile piece that adds extra warmth and elegance to any outfit.
A great pattern for beginner knitters.
Grab the free PDF on Love Crafts.
Chilled Out Vest by Paintbox Yarns
This chilled-out cropped vest features a lightweight and breathable design, perfect for layering in warmer weather.
The pattern offers a relaxed fit with clean lines, making it a versatile and stylish addition to your wardrobe.
Ideal for casual outfits, this vest provides a comfortable and chic way to add a touch of texture to your look.
Grab the free PDF on Love Crafts.
Astro Vest by Paintbox Yarns
This Astro vest is a cozy and soft slipover featuring a simple yet elegant design.
The pattern provides a comfortable fit with ribbed edges, making it perfect for layering over shirts or blouses.
Ideal for everyday wear, this vest combines warmth and style, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
The finished vest will look amazing.
Grab the free PDF on Love Crafts.
Vest With Solid Colour Back by BC Garn
This stylish vest features a unique design with a solid color back that contrasts beautifully with the textured front.
The pattern offers a tailored fit, making it perfect for layering over both casual and dressy outfits. Its clean lines and sophisticated look make this vest a chic and versatile piece for any wardrobe.
A great pattern for any maker who loves classic designs.
Grab the free PDF on Love Crafts.
Highlighter Vest by Lion Brand Yarns
This Highlighter vest features a bold and vibrant design that adds a pop of color to any outfit.
The pattern is simple yet striking, with a chunky texture that makes it both cozy and stylish.
Perfect for layering, this vest is an easy and quick project, ideal for knitters looking to create a standout piece for their wardrobe.
Grab the free PDF on Love Crafts.
Flagship Vest by Espace Tricot
This pattern offers two distinct colorways, giving you the option to choose between a vibrant primary palette or a more subdued, landscape-inspired version.
The landscape-based colorway was thoughtfully developed by quilting artist and skilled knitter Deborah Kemball, adding a unique artistic touch to the design.
Detailed charts are provided for both versions, allowing you to create the vest that best suits your style. It's perfect to wear over your favorite T-shirt.
Grab the free PDF on Raverly.
A Little Bit of Love by The Knitting Loft
This cropped vest pattern is a beautifully crafted design that combines two yarns—Rowan Felted Tweed and CaMaRose Månestråle—held together to create a luxurious DK-weight fabric.
Knit on US size 6 (4.0 mm) and US size 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles.
With its rich texture and thoughtful construction, this vest is a perfect project for those looking to create a stylish, layered piece that blends the softness of lace with the durability of DK weight yarn.
A great pattern loved by many ravelrers.
Grab the free PDF on Raverly.
Feels Like Wednesday Vest Free Pattern by We Are Knitters
The "Feels Like Wednesday" vest is a trendy and versatile piece that combines comfort with style, perfect for layering over your favorite outfits.
This vest is knit with chunky yarn, creating a cozy texture that makes it ideal for cooler weather.
With its modern design and easy-to-follow pattern, this project is perfect for knitters looking to create a fashionable and warm addition to their wardrobe.
Argyle Dreams Vest by Knitty Gritty
This is a stylish and timeless pattern that features a classic argyle design, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe.
This vest is knit using intarsia techniques, allowing the iconic diamond pattern to stand out beautifully against the background.
With its polished look and detailed instructions, this pattern is ideal for knitters looking to challenge themselves with a project that results in a refined, elegant piece.
The perfect project for advanced beginners who want to explore colorwork patterns.
Grab the free PDF on Knitty Gritty.
Bronsnoo Vest by Maya Wilde
This is a cozy and versatile pattern that features a simple yet elegant design, making it perfect for layering during cooler months.
This vest is knit with a relaxed fit and subtle texture, providing both comfort and style.
Ideal for knitters of all levels, this pattern offers clear instructions to help you create a timeless piece that can be worn with a variety of outfits.
Grab the free PDF on Raverly.
Rigby by Julie Hoover For Purl Soho
This vest is a sophisticated and minimalist design that showcases clean lines and a refined silhouette.
Knit with Purl Soho's Mulberry Merino yarn, this vest offers a luxurious drape and a soft, elegant texture.
The pattern features thoughtful details such as a subtle v-neck and tailored fit, making it a versatile piece perfect for layering over shirts or blouses for a polished, modern look.
Eliis by Norah Gaughan
This is a chic and versatile layering piece that combines a modern silhouette with classic design elements.
Knit with Berroco ultra wool, this vest features a simple stockinette stitch body with elegant ribbed edges and a deep V-neck, creating a sleek and flattering fit.
Perfect for both casual and dressy occasions, this vest adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit, making it a timeless addition to your wardrobe.
Grab the free PDF on the Berroco Yarn website.
Prudence Easy by The Berroco Design Team
This is a stylish and comfortable piece designed with simplicity and ease in mind. Knit with bulky yarn, this vest is perfect for the winter.
The pattern's straightforward construction is ideal for knitters of all levels, offering a quick and satisfying project that results in a cozy and versatile garment.
Grab the free PDF on the Berroco Yarn website.
Cable Vest by Lion Brand Yarns
This is a stylish and cozy knit vest featuring classic cable patterns that add texture and warmth.
Perfect for layering, this vest combines traditional cabling with a modern silhouette, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
All you need is ten skeins of Lion brand worsted weight yarn and US 7 circular knitting needles.
Grab the free PDF on the Lion Brand Yarns.
Everything You Need To Know About Knitting A Vest
What is the best stitch for a knitted vest?
The best stitch for a knitted vest largely depends on the style and look you want to achieve, but a few stitches are particularly well-suited for this versatile garment.
Stockinette stitch is a popular choice for its smooth and classic appearance, making it ideal for vests that are sleek and simple.
If you’re looking to add texture and warmth, ribbing is an excellent option, especially for creating a fitted, stretchy vest that retains its shape around the edges and body.
For a more decorative and textured look, cable stitches can add intricate, eye-catching patterns that give the vest a timeless, sophisticated appeal.
Garter stitch, with its ridged texture, is perfect for a more casual or rustic vest, offering a cozy, handmade feel.
Ultimately, the best stitch will complement the yarn you’re using and the overall design you envision for your vest.
- Learn how to knit the stockinette stitch here – How To Knit Stockinette Stitch (For Beginners)
- Learn how to knit the garter stitch here – How To Knit Garter Stitch
What is the best yarn for sweater vests?
The best yarn for sweater vests depends on the desired look, feel, and functionality of the garment.
Wool is a classic choice; it is warm, durable, and has excellent elasticity, making it ideal for sweater vests.
It is also available in various types, such as merino, which is soft and comfortable against the skin.
Wool blends, such as wool-acrylic or wool-cotton blends, offer the benefits of wool with added softness, durability, or ease of care.
These blends can also be more affordable than pure wool.
For a more luxurious feel, silk-blend yarns offer a soft, smooth texture with a lovely sheen.
These blends often combine silk with wool or other fibers to add warmth and durability.
When choosing yarn for a sweater vest, consider the season and climate in which it will be worn, the level of warmth needed, and any personal preferences for texture and care requirements.
It’s also a good idea to check the pattern recommendations, as they often suggest the best type of yarn for achieving the desired results.
- Learn everything about the different 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)
How many balls of yarn do I need for a sweater vest?
The number of balls of yarn needed for a sweater vest depends on several factors, including the size of the vest, the weight of the yarn, the pattern you are following, and your knitting tension.
Generally, for an average adult-sized sweater vest, you might need approximately:
- For DK (double knitting) weight yarn: Around 4-6 balls
- For worsted weight yarn: Around 3-5 balls
- For bulky weight yarn: Around 2-4 balls
These are rough estimates and can vary based on the specific pattern and the size you are making.
It’s always a good idea to check the specific requirements of your chosen pattern, which will usually provide a more precise amount of yarn needed.
Additionally, it’s wise to buy an extra ball of yarn to ensure you have enough, especially if the dye lot number is important for color consistency.
Can a beginner knit a vest?
A beginner can definitely knit a vest, especially if they choose a simple pattern and are willing to take their time learning the basic techniques.
A vest is a great project for new knitters because it typically involves straightforward stitches like knit and purl, and it allows you to practice shaping through increases and decreases without the complexity of sleeves.
Starting with a pattern that uses chunky yarn and larger needles can make the process faster and easier to manage.
There are many beginner-friendly vest patterns available that provide clear instructions and step-by-step guidance.
Can I knit a vest without circular needles?
You can knit a vest without using circular needles.
While circular needles are often preferred for their ability to hold a larger number of stitches and for knitting in the round, a vest can certainly be knit using straight needles.
How do you measure a hand-knitted vest?
To measure for a hand-knitted vest, you’ll need to take a few key measurements to ensure a proper fit.
Start by measuring around the fullest part of your bust or chest, as this will determine the vest’s width.
Next, measure from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hem of the vest to fall, which will give you the length measurement.
Additionally, measure across your back from shoulder to shoulder for the vest’s upper width, and around the narrowest part of your waist if the vest is fitted.
For armholes, measure from the top of your shoulder down to the desired depth.
These measurements will help you select the right size or adjust your pattern to fit your body perfectly.
What supplies do you need to knit a vest?
To knit a vest, you’ll need several essential supplies beyond just yarn and needles.
A tape measure is crucial for checking your gauge and ensuring that your vest fits correctly.
Stitch markers are helpful for keeping track of pattern repeats, marking armholes, or noting where to shape the neckline.
A row counter can be useful for keeping track of rows, especially in complex patterns.
You’ll also need scissors for cutting your yarn and a tapestry needle or darning needle for weaving in ends and sewing any seams.
If you are working with a more complex design, you might also need stitch holders.
If your vest pattern includes buttons, you’ll need buttons and a sewing needle and thread to attach them.
Additionally, a blocking mat and pins can be used to block your vest to its proper shape, ensuring a professional finish.
How to wear a knitted vest?
A knitted vest is a versatile piece that can be styled in various ways to suit different occasions and seasons.
For a classic, layered look, wear your vest over a button-down shirt or blouse, allowing the collar and cuffs to peek out for a polished, preppy vibe.
Pair it with tailored trousers or a skirt for a more formal setting or with jeans for a casual yet put-together appearance.
In cooler weather, you can wear it over a lightweight turtleneck or under a blazer for added warmth and style.
For a modern, chic look, try wearing a longer, oversized vest on its own as a statement piece paired with leggings or slim-fit pants.
The key is to balance the vest’s texture and shape with the rest of your outfit to create a cohesive and stylish ensemble.
Knitting Lessons
If you are new to knitting and need help with the basics, check out more free how-to resources 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.
This includes how to cast on, how to bind off, how to knit the basic stitches, how to knit the knit stitch, how to knit the purl stitches, and how to knit the rib stitch pattern.
Also included is a list of knitting abbreviations (UK + US terms), a knitting needle size guide, and more.
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.
For extra help and to connect with more makers, check out the Handylittleme Facebook group.
If you also love to crochet, check out easy patterns here – Free Crochet Patterns
You can also find us on social media, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, and TikTok.
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