500+ Free cardigan knitting patterns to download! Knitted cardigans are great items to wear all year round, you can knit warmer cardigans in tighter stitches and bulkier yarns for the Winter/Fall months and knit up some light weight, breezy cardigan with eyelets and lace in cotton for the Summer/Spring months.
Cardigans are more than just garments; they are timeless pieces that offer warmth, versatility, and a canvas for self-expression. There is a unique satisfaction that comes from wearing a handmade garment, you can choose the fit, color and style to suit your tastes.
Many knitting enthusiasts hesitate to tackle cardigan projects, fearing complexity. However, we’ll debunk this myth and provide guidance for beginners, including tips on choosing easy patterns and practical considerations for a successful cardigan-knitting venture. See this article for more on Cardigan Knitting Patterns for Beginners.
Cardigan sweaters can be constructed using various methods, typically falling into two categories: seamless construction and pieced (seamed) construction.
Seamless Cardigans:
These cardigan sweaters are crafted all in one piece, utilizing long circular needles. Often worked “top-down,” this method involves knitting from the collar down to the hem, resulting in a seamless and continuous garment.
Seamed Cardigans:
In contrast, seamed cardigans are assembled from separate knitted pieces. This approach involves knitting distinct sections for the back panel, two front panels, and two sleeves. The final step includes the assembly of these pieces using techniques like the mattress stitch. Typically, seamed cardigans are knitted “bottom-up,” starting from the hem and progressing up to the collar.
With over 500 free knitted cardigan patterns to choose from, we have divided them into different styles to help you find exactly what you are looking for, just keep scrolling down to see the latest patterns.
Cardigan Pattern Styles: long sleeves, short sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, open cardigans, button up cardigans, one button cardigans, long cardigans, free v-neck cardigans, cardigans with hoods, cardigans made with bulky yarn, knitted cardigan patterns with pockets, cardigans with peplums
Cardigans by Stitch: lace stitch cardigan knitting patterns, textured stitch cardigans, free fair isle cardigans, free aran cardigan knitting patterns, cable cardigans, striped cardigans, stockinette stitch cardigans, ripple stitch cardigans, bobble stitch cardigans, garter stitch cardigan knitting patterns
This long cardigan is knit flat in pieces from the bottom up and seamed. The design features a Medallion Cable and Stripe pattern throughout the body and sleeves, with a front button band worked simultaneously with the front pieces. The collar extensions are worked separately after seaming and then joined at the center back. Skill…
Amalia Cardigan Free Fair Isle Knit PatternAmalia is about color, balance, and ease. A relaxed Fair Isle cardigan that feels modern without losing warmth. Clean lines. Confident colorwork. A piece you reach for again and again. Fit & StyleDesigned with generous positive ease—about 20 cm / 8″—Amalia has a laid-back silhouette that layers effortlessly. The…
Amelie Argyle Cardigan Free Knitting Pattern. This cardigan brings a modern twist to classic knitting, built around a striking argyle cable-and-lace panel that runs cleanly up the body for a polished, tailored look. Skill Level: Intermediate The design uses a medium-weight acrylic-wool blend that gives the fabric a soft hand, smooth stitch definition, and year-round…
Simple Garter Stitch Coat with Hood and Pockets Free Knitting Pattern. This elegant yet simple coat is a celebration of pure garter stitch — the first stitch every knitter learns, transformed into timeless fashion. Designed with soft lines and practical details, it features a cozy hood, folded pocket flaps, and clean shaping that makes it…
Oversized Cable Coat, Scarf & Hat Set Free Knitting Pattern. A timeless three-piece set featuring a luxurious oversized cable-knit coat, matching scarf, and cozy hat. The design balances rich cable texture with classic ribbed trims for structure and comfort. Knitted in soft alpaca blend yarn, this ensemble is light, warm, and effortlessly elegant. The coat…
Stunning & Free: Your Next Lace Cardigan Knitting Pattern Awaits! There’s something undeniably elegant and rewarding about knitting with lace. The delicate stitches create beautiful texture and drape, making them perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your handmade wardrobe. If you’ve been dreaming of knitting a lace cardigan but aren’t sure where to…
If you’re looking to knit the perfect layering piece, nothing beats a cozy oversized cardigan with pockets. These cardigans are warm, stylish, and practical—ideal for chilly days at home or layering over outfits for a relaxed look. In this roundup, we’ve curated free knitting patterns for oversized cardigans with pockets that are beginner-friendly, size-inclusive, and…
Pattern by: Lion Brand YarnSkill Level: EasyYarn: Wool-Ease® DKSizes: XS to 5X The Somerset Raglan Cardigan is a beginner-friendly, seamless knit that’s worked from the top down. Designed with classic raglan shaping and clean lines, this cardigan features a relaxed silhouette, soft seed stitch trims, and button closures at the front and neckline. It’s an…