25 Free Cardigan Knitting Patterns for Beginners

If you are wondering about a new knitting project, try making a cardigan because there is nothing like a hand-knit cardigan to keep you comfy in the winter season. Cardigans are versatile, practical, and best for layering, and it is not as difficult as they may look. With some practice and the right pattern, anyone can create a beautiful cardigan. To help you get started, in this post, we will share the best cardigan pattern for beginners. You will find a different variety of knit cardigan patterns so that you can easily select the best one to suit your style. 

How to Knit a Cardigan

There are variations of different methods for making cardigan sweaters. Commonly they can be broken down into seamless constructions and seamed construction.

• Seamless cardigans: Seamless cardigan sweaters are knit all in one piece on circular needles. Also, they are often knit "top-down," which means the sweater is knit from the collar down to the hem. 
• Seamed cardigans: Seamed cardigans are knit in pieces and, after that, seamed together. For example, you will knit individual pieces for the back panel, two sleeves, and two front panels. After that, you will collect these pieces with a mattress stitch or some other seaming technique. Many seamed cardigans are knit "bottom-up." 

Also Read: How to knit: A Guide for Beginners

Can a beginner knit a Cardigan?

Yes, beginners can start knitting a cardigan! Just make sure to select a pattern that is rated beginner friendly. Here are some guidelines to help you search for a simple pattern cardigan:

• Search for designs made from rectangular pieces that will be seamed together.
• Search for patterns made with basic patterns of stitch, like garter stitch or stockinette
• Slouchy sweaters may be more forgiving than fitted styles, especially if you are distressed that your gauge is correct.
• If you want your project to work up more quickly, select a pattern made with bulky yarn.

Some favorite yarn for knit cardigans

In the list below, you will find sweaters knit with various yarn types and weights, from fingering weight to super bulky. For your accessibility, we have listed a recommended yarn for every pattern within the post. But before getting started, don't forget to check your gauge.

Also Read: Top 25 Knitting Patterns of Headband and Ear Warmer

If you are not sure what yarn you have to use? Here are some cozy cardigans you might like:

• Lion brand Coboo 
• Lion Brand jeans
• Hue + me (bulky)
• Wool-ease thick & quick (super bulky)

Enjoy the list of free cardigan knitting patterns

Navaeh Cardigan

Show off your style with this lightweight cardigan. Its color blocks make for a different cozy look and a simple way to present your favorite shades. This cardigan is only for women and is made with DK yarn weight.

Back to basics knit cardigan

This oversized and cozy cardigan knitting pattern is made with super bulky yarn, which makes it a rewarding and quick project. Also, it's the best option for beginners, and it comes with eight different size options.

Midtown cardigan

Here is a classic cardigan that features a drop sleeve. This is a classic wardrobe staple that adds a stylish touch to any type of outfit. Also, it's best for relaxing for a day at home or dressing up in jeans. Plus, this cardigan is knit with merino wool, extremely lightweight, and easy to care for. 

Stannum cardigan

The Stannum cardigan is wearable and classic in shape with simple constructions, suitable for all the skill level knitters. This is worked from the top down with a seamless raglan, enabling you to try it as your work. While making it, stick with one color or use a contrasting color for the pockets, sleeves, neck, and cuff.

Bly

This top-down cardigan is a must for each closet, featuring garter welts, raglan sleeves, and a split hem. Also, it's best for fall weather- just throw this cardigan over your t-shirt as soon as that cozy chill begins setting in the air.

My comfiest knit cardigan

This super cozy, extra-long sweater makes the best cardigan knitting pattern for beginners. It's made of some basic sleeves and three rectangles with a bit of seaming at the end. In order to make this cardigan, you need a worsted yarn weight.  

Oxford boyfriend cardigan

This boxy knitting cardigan is sure to become your favorite piece, whether you are spending your day studying on campus or cozying up by the campfire. The simplicity of this cardigan pattern makes it a quick knit that you never want to take off. 

Folded squares cardigan

This fashionable cardigan knitting pattern is mostly origami in sweater form. Plus, it is offered in six unique sizes, and it makes for a drapey and flowy cardigan. The sport yarn weight is needed to make this lovely pattern. 

Anneli

This short-size sweater is worked from the top down and adds a vintage and feminine look to any type of outfit. Plus, it's available in different sizes from XS to XXL. The kid's version of this sweater is also available. 

The uptown cardigan

This relaxed cardigan is lightweight and can be worn any time of year since it is made with bamboo yarn/lightweight cotton that drapes beautifully. However, it's long and easy to make, and it would be a good first sweater project. 

Macaulay cardigan

This classic cardigan pattern is knitted in pieces from the bottom up. Plus, its set-in sleeves and some contrasting color bands of garter stitch give the piping effect. Plus, it finished by picking up the neckband and button band stitches.

Simple slouchy sweater

This simple cardigan knitting pattern comes with a video tutorial that walks you through each step. This slouchy cardigan is a vital fall wardrobe. Plus, it's designed as the best "First Garment Project" for beginners. The complete weather is made from 3 different pieces, with minimal shaping. 

Shapely boyfriend

This classic-look sweater is made with worsted yarn and is mainly designed to be flattering in any size. Currently, it's available in sizes XS through 3X. 

Iced cardigan

Get ready for this casual sweater to become a staple in your wardrobe because this pattern goes with everything. The super bulky yarn makes this sweater perfect for snuggling into on cold days. 

Paulie

This lightweight cardigan pattern is best for running errands or a fall day at home. This cardigan works seamlessly from the top down, and whether you are wearing it buttoned up or open, it looks impressive. 

February lady sweater

This pretty and womanish sweater is easily flattering on any body type. It features ¾ sleeves and an elegant, lacy stitch pattern. Plus, it's available in different sizes so that anyone can wear it. 

Effortless cardigan

This slouchy and soft cardigan pattern is made with medium-weight yarn that makes this pattern simple to make and perfect for beginners. The sizing information of this pattern is written for the smallest size, with the changes for larger sizes in parentheses.

The Woodbury cardigan

This chunky cardigan pattern features the seed stitch for enough texture and interest. It will definitely become your favorite cardigan with its oversized style and amazing drape. Try to wear this over your jeans, dresses, and leggings, and add some extra layer of coziness.

Harvest

There is nothing like celebrating the happiness of a fall harvest in a comfy or soft sweater. This sweater comes in different sizes, from infant to 6XL, so that everyone in the family can enjoy it.

Caramel

This pattern is made with the DK yarn weight and it's worked from the top down. There are various options for wearing this blanket-style cardigan. Wrap it, wear it open, or pin it at the shoulder; this always looks amazing in any style.

Ballerina wrap top

Pair this wrap top with high-waisted jeans, and you are ready for the party. This wrap top is the best option to knit yourself because you can check the fit to ensure that each part is just correct for you.

Levesque cardigan

This Livres Que cardigan is timeless and classic with a touch of color. Also, it worked from the top down by using the worsted yarn weight. Plus, it combines a few of our favorite elements of mid-century knitwear- rustic yarn, tidy crewneck, buttons - with a playful color palette and a timeless silhouette.

Estuary

Here is a bi-color V-neck that's worked in various pieces from the bottom up. While making it, use any darkest color on the bottom for the most flattering color scheme. Please note that this cardigan garment was designed with almost 2-4" ease, so when you select your size, take this into consideration. 

Mon petit gilet rayé

This cardigan pattern is full of vision for different color choices and designs. All the options are nearly endless with this fitted knit sweater. Plus, it's available in only M sizes for adult women. 

Amiga

This drapey cardigan pattern is compact and lightweight. It's best for carrying around in a backpack or in your card whenever a cool breeze happens to come through.

Knitting techniques to know

Here are a few standard knitting techniques that you will need for knitting. So, naturalize yourself with the stitches and techniques used in your cardigan pattern before getting started. If there are any techniques that you are curious about, practice them first, and then you will be definitely glad that you did them. 

• Basic knitting stitches: For knitting cardigans, you need to check complete tutorials on how to knit, how to cast on, how to bind off, and how to purl.
• Increases and decreases: These techniques are essential for shaping your cardigan. 
• Knitting in the round: Few cardigan patterns will guide you through knitting your sleeves in the round. In order to knit in the round, you will need DPNs or circular needles.
• Seaming: If your cardigan or sweater is knit in pieces, then you need to sew all the pieces together at the end. Most of the patterns will recommend using the mattress stitch to do seaming.

Also Read: 20+ Free Christmas Knitting Patterns

Tips and tricks for knitting cardigans

• Select the right pattern for your skill level: Think pragmatically about your knitting skill level before selecting a pattern. If you are just starting out, then search for a pattern that includes basic stitches, simple rectangles, and a forgiving fit. For advanced knitting, you may wish to choose something challenging to keep your interest. 
• Make a gauge swatch to test your tension and yarn choice.
• Even if you buy the same yarn as the pattern designer, keep in mind that every knitter has a different gauge. Knitting a gauge swatch before the beginning of your cardigan is vital to ensure the best fit.
• Read the pattern assiduously and review any new techniques or concepts.
• To avoid annoyance, read your pattern carefully to get the complete picture and familiarise yourself with all the stitches and techniques you must know. Just don't be scared to practice any skills before getting started.
• Check the fit: The best part of knitting your sweater is that you can make sure that it fits you utterly! Hold your cardigan up to your body, or try it on during the thickening procedure. This way, you can easily adjust if pieces are too small or large or if you wish them to be longer or shorter. 
• Block the cardigan pattern for the best result. To achieve the perfect shape, simply block your sweater when you're finished knitting. Blocking includes drying and wetting your knit Cartier to set the shape. 

Final Verdict

Cardigans are women's best friends! They are cozy and cute, and they go well with everything. You can wear a cardigan all year round and also they are so well to have on hand for any type of weather. There are so many free knit patterns out there, so if you are looking for some beautiful cardigan knitting patterns to make, this post will help you find the perfect one that suits your style.

Source: https://hariguide.com/cardigan-knitting-patterns-for-beginners/