10 Free Sweater Knitting Patterns You’ll Love to Wear
Looking for free sweater knitting patterns? Scroll down for 10 of my favorites! Check out my free sweater pattern page for even more styles you’ll love to wear year-round!
When I say I could knit sweaters all day long, I truly mean it. They’re cozy, versatile, and the ultimate wardrobe staple. And the best part? There are so many amazing free sweater knitting patterns that you can dive into without spending a dime on patterns. Today, I’m sharing some of my absolute favorites—the ones that are practical, comfy, and just plain fun to knit.
I’ve hand-picked some of my own free sweater knitting patterns for babies, kids, and adults, and each one has its own personality. Some are lightweight tees perfect for warm weather. Others are cardigans and pullovers that you’ll reach for all fall and winter long. And yes, each one uses yarns I truly love (and that I’ve linked for you as affiliate links).
Ready to dig in? Let’s get knitting!
Baby John Hooded Cardigan
First up is the Baby John Hooded Cardigan, one of those free sweater knitting patterns that everyone loves because it’s just so practical. The hood makes it extra cozy for little ones, and it’s easy to layer over any outfit.
This cardigan is knit in Premier Yarns Cotton Fair (affiliate link), which is a soft and breathable cotton blend. I love how easy it is to care for—important when you’re making sweaters for babies! Plus, it knits up beautifully and holds its shape well.
The construction of the Baby John Hooded Cardigan is straightforward enough for confident beginners but still fun for more advanced knitters. It’s one of those projects you’ll want to make again and again because it’s so cute and functional.
Baby John Hooded Cardigan Free Pattern
Baby Wheat Cardigan
The Baby Wheat Cardigan is another great option when you’re looking for free sweater knitting patterns for little ones. It has a simple yet classic design that works for boys and girls, and the wheat-inspired stitch detail gives it just the right amount of texture.
This cardigan is knit using KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link), a luxurious and soft yarn that’s a blend of merino wool, cashmere, and nylon. It feels amazing in your hands while knitting and is gentle against a baby’s skin.
What I especially love about the Baby Wheat Cardigan is how timeless it is. You could easily knit it in neutral colors for a family heirloom or go bold with bright shades.
Baby Wheat Cardigan Free Pattern
Youth Wheat Cardigan Free Pattern
Youth Damask Cardigan
If you have older kids who love cardigans, the Youth Damask Cardigan is a fantastic choice. It’s one of my go-to free sweater knitting patterns for tweens because it feels a bit more grown-up without losing that handmade charm.
This cardigan uses Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link), which is a dream to work with. It’s durable enough for kids but still soft and wearable. The yarn is machine washable too, making it perfect for busy families.
The stitch pattern on the Youth Damask Cardigan is just beautiful. It adds visual interest without being overly complicated, so you can enjoy the knitting process without stressing over every row.
Youth Damask Cardigan Free Pattern
Baby Damask Cardigan Free Pattern
Youth Granite Sweater
The Youth Granite Sweater is another favorite free sweater knitting pattern in my collection. This one is a pullover, and the texture is what makes it shine. The granite-like stitch pattern gives it depth and warmth, perfect for chilly days.
I knit this one with Berroco Ultra Alpaca (affiliate link), which has that perfect mix of softness and durability. It’s warm without being heavy, so kids can move freely and stay cozy at the same time.
This pattern is great if you want something a bit different than a plain stockinette sweater. The texture is so satisfying to knit, and it makes the finished project look extra special.
Youth Granite Sweater Free Pattern
Baby Granite Sweater Free Pattern
Child Puff Sleeve Tee
Next up is the Child Puff Sleeve Tee, one of those free sweater knitting patterns that’s just too adorable to pass up. The puff sleeves give it a sweet and feminine touch, and the tee style makes it perfect for warmer weather or layering.
For this sweater, I used KnitPicks Vividie (affiliate link), which is a soft and colorful yarn that brings this tee to life. It’s lightweight and ideal for spring and summer projects.
The Child Puff Sleeve Tee knits up quickly, making it a great choice for last-minute gifts or if you just want a fast, satisfying project. (Oh, and did I mention there is an adult version too?)
Child Puff Sleeve Tee Free Pattern
Adult Puff Sleeve Tee Free Pattern
Chain Tee
The Chain Tee is a great lightweight option for adults, and it’s one of my favorite free sweater knitting patterns for warmer weather. It’s easy to throw on with jeans, skirts, or shorts, and the fit is super flattering.
This tee uses Premier Yarns Cotton Fair (affiliate link), the same yarn as the Baby John Hooded Cardigan. I love how soft and breathable it is, which makes it perfect for spring and summer knits.
The Chain Tee is also a great “TV knit” because the pattern is simple enough that you can knit without constantly checking the instructions.
Joanna Cardigan
If you’re looking for a cardigan that feels like a big cozy hug, the Joanna Cardigan is exactly what you need. It’s one of my coziest free sweater knitting patterns and a total must-knit if you love layering pieces.
This cardigan is knit with Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link), and the name really says it all. It’s light, soft, and has just the right amount of halo.
The Joanna Cardigan is a bit oversized, which I think makes it the perfect weekend sweater. It’s ideal for lounging around the house or layering over your favorite outfit when you’re on the go.
Peace Sweater
The Peace Sweater is one of those free sweater knitting patterns that instantly becomes a favorite. It’s a simple pullover with a classic fit, making it a versatile piece for your wardrobe.
I knit this sweater using Premier Yarns Elle by Me Charlotte (affiliate link). This yarn is soft, warm, and perfect for everyday wear.
The Peace Sweater is also a good option if you’re new to sweater knitting. It’s a straightforward pattern without too many tricky techniques, so it’s great for building your skills.
Rosemary Cardigan
The Rosemary Cardigan is another one of my absolute favorites. This free sweater knitting pattern has a simple, clean design that works for just about any occasion.
This cardigan is knit in KnitPicks Upcycle Alpaca (affiliate link), which is an eco-friendly yarn made from recycled fibers. It’s soft and warm, and I love knowing that I’m using materials that are sustainable.
The Rosemary Cardigan is a staple piece that you’ll reach for again and again. It pairs beautifully with dresses, jeans, and skirts, and the fit is just right.
Adult Rosemary Cardigan Free Pattern
Youth rosemary Cardigan Free Pattern
Nick Sweater
Last but definitely not least is the Nick Sweater. This is one of those free sweater knitting patterns that has a little something for everyone. It’s a pullover with a relaxed fit and a classic vibe, making it easy to dress up or down.
The Nick Sweater is knit in Berroco Vintage (affiliate link), which is one of my all-time favorite yarns. It’s machine washable, soft, and comes in a huge range of colors.
The Nick Sweater is a fantastic project if you want something that’s both fun to knit and practical to wear.
Why These Free Sweater Knitting Patterns Are So Special
One of the things I love most about these free sweater knitting patterns is how versatile they are. You can knit them in different colors and yarns to suit your personal style, and they all make amazing gifts too.
Whether you’re making a tiny cardigan for a new baby or a cozy oversized sweater for yourself, there’s something so satisfying about creating a handmade garment. It’s a labor of love, and every time you wear it (or see someone else wearing it), you’re reminded of the care and time you put into it.
Tips for Knitting These Free Sweater Knitting Patterns
- Choose the right yarn. Each of these free sweater knitting patterns lists the yarns I used, and I highly recommend them. They were chosen for a reason—they’re soft, durable, and a joy to knit with.
- Swatch, swatch, swatch. It might be tempting to skip it, but checking your gauge will save you headaches later.
- Enjoy the process. Sweaters can take a little longer than smaller projects, but they’re so worth it.
What Will You Knit First?
I’d love to know which of these free sweater knitting patterns caught your eye. Are you making something for yourself, a baby, or a bigger kid? Or maybe you’re ready to jump into an adult-sized cardigan or pullover?
Drop a comment below and let me know which project you’re excited to cast on first. Your feedback always makes my day, and I love hearing about what you’re working on!
This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through my links. Thank you for supporting my blog!
The post 10 Free Sweater Knitting Patterns You’ll Love to Wear appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.
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