Cardigan Knitting Patterns You Will Love: 10 Freebies to Cast On
Looking for cardigan knitting patterns? Check out the list below. Want more? Visit my free sweater knitting pattern page and find your next favorite knit.
If you are anything like me, you collect cardigan knitting patterns the way some people collect coffee mugs. Every time the weather changes or a fresh project idea hits, I get that urge to cast on something warm and wearable. Cardigan knitting patterns are such a happy place because they combine comfort, style, and practicality. They are the sweaters we reach for over and over again.
Since cardigans are such a must-knit piece for every wardrobe, today I am rounding up some of my very favorite cardigan knitting patterns from my own design library. Each one has personality. Each one has fun construction details. Each one gives you that satisfying I-made-this feeling.
This post links to my free sweater knitting pattern page, so if you decide one cardigan is not enough, you can keep the inspiration flowing. Cardigan knitting patterns for everyone. Cardigan knitting patterns that keep you warm. Cardigan knitting patterns you will want to knit again. I am excited to show you these cardigan knitting patterns and help you pick your next project.
Grab your needles. Pour your coffee. Let’s talk cardigans.
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: The Damask Cardigan
The Damask Cardigan is one of my most loved cardigan knitting patterns because it looks much more complicated than it actually is. It features simple knits and purls that resemble cables, with that squishy textured look we all adore. This drop-sleeve cardigan is buttoned, wearable, and comes in both baby and youth sizes so you can make one for the littles in your life.
I knit these cardigans in Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link) or Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday (affiliate link) and both choices work beautifully. If you want a cozy, long-lasting piece kids can wear to church or school, this one checks all the boxes. As far as cardigan knitting patterns go, this is a classic with a twist.
Baby Damask Cardigan Free Pattern
Youth Damask Cardigan Free Pattern
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: The Baby John Hooded Cardigan
Baby sized cardigan knitting patterns have a special place in my heart, especially ones with hoods. The Baby John Hooded Cardigan is a drop-sleeve all-over stockinette design, buttoned down the front, and yes… the hood is both adorable and practical. Babies in hoods just hit different.
This cardigan is knit using Premier Yarns Cotton Fair (affiliate link) which gives the fabric a breathable, soft finish. This makes it perfect for not too hot, not too cold kind of days. New moms love receiving this cardigan as a handmade gift and you will love how quickly it works up.
Baby John Hooded Cardigan Free Pattern
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: The Wheat Cardigan
The Wheat Cardigan is one of my most impressive cardigan knitting patterns from a stitch perspective. It features an all-over wheat lace motif and comes in baby, youth, and adult sizes so everyone in your home can match if you are in a matchy-matchy season.
The yarn used is KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link) and the adult size is getting a complete redo with updated sizing and measurements before the end of 2025. If you want to push yourself creatively but still enjoy the process, this cardigan knitting pattern is a dream. I love how the wheat lace texture adds interest without overwhelming the design.
Baby Wheat Cardigan Free Pattern
Youth Wheat Cardigan Free Pattern
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: Judah Zipped Cardigan
If you want more cardigan knitting patterns that bring texture and durability together, look at the Judah Zipped Cardigan. This youth cardigan uses an all-over 1×1 broken rib texture that looks great on both boys and girls. My favorite design detail is the folded neck, which adds a polished finish and extra warmth right where kids need it.
This one is knit with KnitPicks Upcycle Alpaca (affiliate link). I know zippers can be intimidating, but they bring so much practicality to kids’ sweaters. Parents love how easy it is to zip and go. This cardigan knitting pattern is functional, comfortable, and very gift-worthy.
Judah Zipped Cardigan Free Pattern
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: Mary Cardigan
Youth cardigan knitting patterns are often either too plain or too decorative. The Mary Cardigan finds that sweet spot in the middle. It is a bottom-up raglan design with an all-over lace that resembles tiny butterflies. It has just enough texture to keep your needles excited.
I designed it using Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday DK (affiliate link) because kids deserve yarn that stays beautiful wash after wash. This is one of those cardigan knitting patterns that looks angelic and delicate, yet it is sturdy enough for everyday wear.
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: Rosemary Cardigan
The Rosemary Cardigan is your ideal open-front, long cardigan with pockets. Whether you are curling up on the couch or heading out the door, this is one of my cardigan knitting patterns that works with jeans, dresses, leggings, anything.
It comes in youth and adult sizes, which feels like such a treat. The yarn I used is KnitPicks Upcycle Alpaca (affiliate link) which drapes beautifully and elevates the entire look. If you love cardigan knitting patterns that feel wearable every day of the week, you will adore this one.
Youth Rosemary Cardigan Free Pattern
Adult Rosemary Cardigan Free Pattern
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: September Cardigan
Next on our journey through favorite cardigan knitting patterns is the September Cardigan. This design is top-down, open front, and mostly stockinette. The clean, simple fabric makes it timeless while the beautiful front band gives it just the right amount of flair.
This cardigan is knit with Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday (affiliate link). It comes in youth and adult sizes, so you can go minimal, modern, and match all at once. If cardigans had a go-to category, this cardigan knitting pattern would belong right there at the top.
Youth September Cardigan Free Pattern
Adult September Cardigan Free Pattern
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: Anna Cardigan
The Anna Cardigan is where style meets speed. If you want chunky cardigan knitting patterns that knit up fast but still look polished, this is the cardigan for you. It is a drop-sleeve, buttoned cardigan with pockets and a bold knit-purl diamond panel up the back and along each front. It comes in baby through teen sizes so every kid gets a turn wearing something stylish.
This cardigan uses Premier Yarns Elle by Me Charlotte (affiliate link). Chunky yarn means instant gratification, and the structure of this cardigan keeps it looking intentional and neatly shaped. You feel like a cardigan knitting patterns superhero after finishing this one in no time.
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: Joanna Cardigan
I love cardigan knitting patterns that offer something fun and fashionable. The Joanna Cardigan features all-over ribbed eyelets with alternating rows of garter in a v-neck dolman sleeve style. The cropped silhouette adds a little modern flair, making it especially cute styled with skirts or high-waisted jeans. Finally, an adult option that feels fresh and exciting.
This one uses Hobbii Fluffy Day (affiliate link) which gives the finished sweater a lightweight, super soft feel. Picture a Saturday brunch, a trip to the farmer’s market, or a casual day date. This cardigan knitting pattern wants to go with you.
Cardigan Knitting Patterns: Lodge Cardigan
Last, but absolutely not least in this lineup of cardigan knitting patterns, is the Lodge Cardigan. This one is modular and inspired by those crochet granny square sweaters. It feels playful and creative, while still producing a structured open-front cardigan you will love pulling together.
I used Hobbii Winter Glow (affiliate link) which is known for its color shifts and depth. It lets you make a sweater that looks like art without requiring complicated stitch patterns. Any time you want cardigan knitting patterns that make you feel like a designer yourself, reach for this one.
How to Choose Between These Cardigan Knitting Patterns
Choosing between cardigan knitting patterns often comes down to who you are knitting for and what experience you are craving.
• If you want simplicity with visual punch: the Damask Cardigan
• If you are knitting for a new baby: the Baby John Hooded Cardigan
• If you love lace: the Wheat Cardigan or Mary Cardigan
• If you want everyday durability for active kids: the Judah Zipped Cardigan
• If you want something long and cozy: Rosemary Cardigan
• If you want a straightforward basic: September Cardigan
• If you love chunky knits: Anna Cardigan
• If you love stylish and modern: Joanna Cardigan
• If you want a creative modular project: Lodge Cardigan
The truth is there is no wrong choice here. Cardigan knitting patterns are like good friends. They serve a purpose, fit different seasons of life, and bring comfort when you need it most.
Why I Love Designing Cardigan Knitting Patterns
Designing cardigan knitting patterns gives me the chance to dream up pieces people will actually live in. Cardigans are hardworking wardrobe staples. They become the sweater you grab when you are cold and tired at the end of the day, the piece that makes your outfit feel complete, or the gift someone cherishes because it was handmade by you.
I also love the creative freedom cardigan knitting patterns allow. Raglan, drop sleeve, modular construction, chunky yarn, delicate lace, zippers or buttons. You can try it all. No matter your skill level or your time available, there is always a cardigan knitting pattern ready to fit right into your life. I hope this roundup inspires you.
Thank you for reading through these cardigan knitting patterns and hanging out with me today. Which one do you think you will cast on first? Tell me in the comments so I can cheer you on.
All yarn links are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you choose to purchase after clicking.
The post Cardigan Knitting Patterns You Will Love: 10 Freebies to Cast On appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.
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