6 Free Must-Knit Cardigan Patterns for Kids You’ll Love
Discover your next cozy project from these cardigan patterns for kids featured on my free sweater pattern page
When I’m planning new projects for my kids, cardigans are always at the top of my list. They’re just so versatile—easy to layer, perfect for transition seasons, and (let’s be real) they make my kids look instantly more put-together without them even trying. I’ve knit more sweaters than I can count over the years, but today I want to share six cardigan patterns for kids that truly stand out.
These patterns are cozy, stylish, and 100% mom-tested. And if you’ve got yarn in your stash just begging to be used or an empty project bag waiting for something special, these cardigan patterns for kids are a perfect place to start.
Let’s dive into some of my favorites!
1. The Damask Cardigan
The Damask Cardigan is that classic grandma-style knit with a twist—it has texture for days. Designed with simple knit/purl stitches and a relaxed fit, this is one of those cardigan patterns for kids that looks way fancier than it is to knit. If you’re comfortable with basic stitch patterns and shaping, this one’s a satisfying step up without being overwhelming.
I knit the sample using Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link), which is one of my favorite affordable wool yarns for kids’ garments. It holds up to wear, washes well, and comes in a huge range of colors that kids actually like.
This cardigan has a buttoned front, a comfy crew neck collar, and that timeless texture that works just as well over a dress as it does with jeans. I’ve knit it for boys and girls, and it always gets compliments.
If you’re looking for cardigan patterns for kids that are classic and practical, Damask is a winner.
2. The Judah Zipped Cardigan
Zippers can feel intimidating, but don’t skip the Judah Zipped Cardigan just because of that! It’s one of the most stylish and wearable cardigan patterns for kids I’ve ever knit. The pattern includes a cozy standing collar and sleek zip-up front, making it perfect for layering over t-shirts in cooler weather.
I used KnitPicks Upcycle Alpaca (affiliate link), which gives the whole garment a plush, slightly rustic texture. It’s incredibly soft, and I love that it’s environmentally friendly since it’s made from recycled fibers.
This cardigan was a big hit with my older boys who aren’t as into “cute” knits anymore. It’s warm but breathable, looks sporty, and the ribbing details make it feel a little more grown-up.
Out of all my cardigan patterns for kids, this one probably gets the most everyday wear.
Judah Zipped Cardigan Free Pattern
3. The Mary Cardigan
The Mary Cardigan is sweet, simple, and absolutely adorable on toddlers and little girls. If you’re after cardigan patterns for kids with gentle shaping and a touch of whimsy, this one checks all the boxes. It features raglan sleeves, a sweet garter stitch neckline, and an optional picot hem for that extra bit of charm.
I knit it up using Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday DK (affiliate link), and let me tell you—I was thrilled with how it held up to toddler life. Food, dirt, playground slides—you name it. This yarn survived it all and still looked great after multiple washes.
What makes this cardigan pattern stand out is how lightweight and wearable it is. It layers beautifully over dresses or t-shirts, and the construction is straightforward enough for newer garment knitters.
If you’re collecting cardigan patterns for kids with an everyday feel and maximum cuteness, Mary is one to bookmark.
4. The Rosemary Cardigan
Pocket lovers lovers, this one’s for you. The Rosemary Cardigan features gorgeous twisted stitches, a folded collar, and just enough detail to keep the knitting fun. Among all my cardigan patterns for kids, this one is probably the most unique in terms of length.
I used KnitPicks Upcycle Alpaca (affiliate link) for this one as well, and it knit up like a dream. The alpaca gives it that soft, slightly fuzzy finish, and the natural color options are perfect for a warm, earthy look.
What I love about this cardigan is that it’s a great “elevated basic.” The pockets stitches make it special, but it’s still practical enough for school days or family photos. The front has a clean open band that’s easy to work and gives the whole sweater a tailored finish.
If you’re looking to build your library of cardigan patterns for kids with some texture-rich options, Rosemary is a must.
Rosemary Cardigan Free Pattern
5. The September Cardigan
The September Cardigan has such a lovely balance of cozy and clean. It’s a raglan-style cardigan with wide ribbed hems and a simple silhouette that works for all seasons. What I really love about this one is that it grows with your kids—it’s roomy without being bulky and looks great worn with jeans, shorts, or over a dress.
I used Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday DK (affiliate link), and I can’t say enough good things about how well this yarn performs. It doesn’t fuzz up or stretch out, and it holds stitch definition beautifully.
This cardigan is also one of the fastest ones to knit from this list. The clean stockinette body is great for TV knitting (or soccer practice sidelines), and the wide ribbed details give it that polished finish.
If you’re browsing cardigan patterns for kids and want one that’s both comfy and timeless, the September Cardigan deserves a spot on your needles.
September Cardigan Free Pattern
6. The Wheat Cardigan
Last but definitely not least, the Wheat Cardigan is a dream to knit—and wear. It’s cozy, stylish, and has a wheat motif on the throughout that adds the perfect amount of detail without overcomplicating the knit. This is one of those cardigan patterns for kids that can easily become a hand-me-down favorite.
I used KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link), which is a merino, cashmere, and nylon blend. Yes, please. It’s soft, elegant, and feels like a splurge—but it’s one of those yarns that’s truly worth it.
The Wheat Cardigan has a simple drop sleeve fit with a little bit of extra attention to the lace stitch pattern, making it both fun to knit and lovely to look at. It’s another one of my go-to cardigan patterns for kids when I want a project that feels special but still gets lots of wear.
Why I Keep Knitting These Cardigan Patterns for Kids
There’s something so satisfying about knitting a garment that your child actually wants to wear—and that’s exactly what I get from these six cardigan patterns for kids. They’re wearable, practical, and fun to knit (which is important for us, too!).
I’ve found that choosing the right yarn really makes the difference in how long these cardigans last. Whether you go for eco-friendly options like KnitPicks Upcycle Alpaca (affiliate link), kid-proof yarns like Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday DK (affiliate link), or luxury blends like KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link), you can tailor each cardigan to your child’s style and your knitting preferences.
With these cardigan patterns for kids in your pattern stash, you’ll always have the perfect project waiting—whether it’s for back-to-school season, a handmade gift, or just because.
Got a Favorite?
I’d love to know—which of these cardigan patterns for kids caught your eye first? Or do you already have a go-to favorite? Drop a comment below and let’s chat all things cozy kids’ knits!
This post contains affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of the links above, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog!
The post 6 Free Must-Knit Cardigan Patterns for Kids You’ll Love appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.
Comments
Post a Comment