Cardigans are a functional way to add warmth to any outfit, and they're versatile enough that you can wear them with nearly anything. The choices for cardigan patterns are endless. If you've got a pattern for a basic cardigan and some knitting skills, you can make your own with yarn. The knitting is only half the battle—how do you get from knitting to sewn garment? There are dozens of free sewing patterns for cardigans online! If you download the pattern, ensure it includes instructions on how to sew the pieces together because many knit garments don't have this information. You may also need to buy special sewing needles if you're not used to using them.
Free Cardigan Sewing Patterns
Looking for a new sewing project? These free cardigan sewing patterns are perfect for beginners. They are all beginner-friendly and will help you discover a love for sewing. Sewing cardigan patterns is easy to get acquainted with sewing and make a great first project. This roundup of 15 free cardigan sewing patterns is a great place to start, with everything from classic cardigans to more fashionable options. These patterns are designed for knit fabrics like cotton or wool but can also be adapted for woven fabrics. Most patterns have instructions for both men's and women's cardigans, so you can make gifts for the whole family! The warmer days of spring and summer are ideal for wearing light and airy cardigans.
These 15 cardigan patterns are perfect for the home, including a beginner's guide to sewing cardigans and techniques for creating different sleeve styles.
See More: 11 Free Scarf Sewing Patterns
Tips For Sewing Cardigan Patterns
Sewing cardigan patterns is a great way to get into sewing. It's not as intimidating as sewing a dress or a skirt, and it's a great way to get comfortable with the basics of pattern-making, fit, and alterations before moving on to more complex projects.
Here are some tips for sewing cardigan patterns:
1. Read the instructions carefully. The instructions are there for you—don't skip them! They'll tell you exactly what supplies you need and how to sew them together.
2. Make sure your pattern pieces match up perfectly before cutting them out (i.e., make sure there aren't any overlaps). This will save you time when it comes time to sew everything together!
3. When cutting out fabric pieces, always cut the right sides together so that the front and back of each piece will match up perfectly when they're sewn together later on in this process (this also helps prevent stretching or distorting).
4. When pinning fabric pieces together while sewing them together (e.g., attaching seams), ensure that corresponding edges are aligned correctly along their entire length.
Open-Front Cardigan Sewing Pattern:
The Open-Front Cardigan is a summer staple that can be worn as a lightweight vest or layered over any tank. The open front creates an interesting design detail and allows you to wear it in many different ways. Complete with dolman sleeves and knitted ribbing, this sweater will become your new favorite piece! The perfect cardigan for any occasion, this open-front cardigan is quick and easy to sew. There are instructions for a few simple designs to get you started, or you can make your unique details! This is an easy project that you'll make over and over again!
Refashion A Sweater Into A Cardigan In 10 Minutes:
A crafty person who wants to transform a simple sweater into a cute cardigan must follow these easy steps. The first and foremost step is to find the right material to be used as a pattern for cutting the cardigan pieces. You can transform a sweater into this cute cardigan in just 10 minutes and use only a pair of scissors and safety pins. All you need: One sweater in your favorite color, a pair of thread scissors, some fabric glue, or sewing machine thread. See how to make it!"
Free Cocoon Cardigan Sewing Pattern:
The Cocoon Cardigan is a shape-shifting garment made for everyday wear. It's comfortable, flattering, and easy to sew for all sizes. The slimming cocoon shape is easy to wear, and the deep cowl collar makes it a cozy staple for fall and winter. It has a figure-flattering shape that fits everybody, it's lightweight, and it's the perfect companion for chilly days and the office or classroom. You'll love this simple sewing pattern!: the length can easily be adjusted by adding or subtracting rows in the body.
Shawl Collar Cardigan Tutorial:
This shawl collar cardigan is perfect for spring and summer. It works up quickly with just basic sewing skills needed, using a simple piecing technique to get the collar to stand up. It's a quick project you can use in your wardrobe since it wears well and has many options for what you can wear underneath - like tees, tanks, or button-downs. This shawl collar cardigan tutorial is for beginners and includes a step-by-step guide to making your lovely cardigan.
Make A Kimono Cardigan Out Of A Scarf:
The kimono cardigan sewing tutorial shows you how to create a kimono cardigan from any lightweight scarf or even a regular dress shirt. The process requires only a small amount of fabric, so it may be the perfect project for scrap quilters or those looking for a way to use up remnants. This is an excellent sewing project for beginners. It involves no complicated techniques, just simple straight-stitch sewing. This cardigan is toasty warm, looks great, and is easy to make.
Wrap Cardigan Sewing Pattern:
Learn how to sew a wrap cardigan sewing pattern with this sewing tutorial. Review the processes from cutting and marking, techniques of applying facings and linings, buttonholes, and hemming, as well as finishing options for your finished wrap cardigan. The wrap cardigan is one of the most comfortable, versatile wardrobe staples you can own. Perfect for everyday use, this timeless piece works on its own and is layered. You need the right sewing pattern, and this Wrap Cardigan Sewing Pattern might be it.
Free Ballet Wrap Cardigan:
Looking for a unique cardigan pattern? This is your new favorite! It's an easy project to sew that you'll want to make in every color! Perfect for using up fabric scraps, it features an easy wrap-style neckline and roomy armholes. The elasticized waistband ensures it will be super comfy to wear. This stylish wrap cardigan is comfortable to wear and very versatile. The wrap construction makes it easy to style over dresses, tees, and other cardigans.
Kimono-style Cardigan In Just 1 Hour:
Learn how to make this trendy kimono sweater in just one hour! Sleeves are tricky, but the expert helps you simplify the process. Make this sweater in any fabric you like to create a new look. Sewing tutorials teach you everything you need to know to sew something beautiful. This DIY kimono cardigan is sure to keep you cozy and stylish. This pattern is easy to follow, so even a beginner can easily tackle this project. Sew up a few in different colors for an easy wardrobe update!
Free Easy Cardigan Sewing Pattern:
Grab your sewing machine and a few basic supplies to learn how to make this simple yet elegant cardigan in this free video tutorial from Sewing Projects. This garment is loose-fitting enough to layer over slim pants or long skirts for any season. The Sewing Pattern is the perfect sweater to make for you or a loved one. This vintage-style cardigan has a very simple, straightforward construction. The seams are incredibly easy, making this a great pattern for those who have never sewn.
Super Easy Raglan Cardigan Sewing Pattern:
Looking for a simple DIY project that uses only a few fabric scraps? This super easy raglan sweater sewing pattern will have you covered. You need to cut out the pattern pieces, sew and hem the cardigan seams and then add a buttonhole to each button band. You can make it with or without sleeves. It's perfect for beginners and has so many options to customize. There are so many ways you can wear this one.
How To Sew A Cardigan Using A Serger:
Using a serger is the key to creating professionally sewn garments, but if you don't have one, don't worry! This video will teach you to sew a cardigan using a regular sewing machine. With the right pattern and some basic sewing skills, you'll be able to create your clothing in no time. You'll also learn how to stitch hems on the sleeves and body of your garments, so they fold neatly at the edges instead of fraying when washed. Follow along and complete one of the most popular beginner sewing projects.
Garnet Cardigan Sewing Pattern:
The Garnet Cardigan sewing pattern is a wardrobe staple you will wear repeatedly. It features raglan sleeves and drops sleeves, and it all comes together quickly with pieces cut on the grainline and makes the most of your fabric! You can use any knit fabric you like; chunky, thin, stretchy -- it's up to you! The easy drop-shoulder design creates a perfectly elegant look that suits any girl beautifully.
Transformable Easy Cardigan Sewing Pattern:
Transform your wardrobe from classic to chic with this easy-to-sew cardigan. It's fully lined with a shawl collar and shaped in the front, which gives it a classic drape. The best part? It has all of the features of a classic cardigan but allows you to create something fun and new—no matter what shape you wear or what color you love! Size ranges are provided to create something unique and versatile to fit your needs. This easy cardigan is versatile, perfect for layering with a cute tee and jeans or dressed up for work with a pencil skirt!
Willow Cardigan Free Pattern:
The Willow Cardigan is the perfect cardigan for spring and summer. It's lightweight yet slightly oversized and cozy. The banded ribbing gives this knit sweater a sophisticated look, while the bold stripes of color show off your wardrobe! Just big enough to keep you warm, but not so big that it becomes overwhelming. It's a fresh take on the classic cardigan, sleeve, and longer length. The clean lines and simple yet detailed construction make this a must-have wardrobe piece for every closet."
Maxi Cardigan Sewing Pattern:
The Maxi Cardigan Sewing Pattern is a cozy, oversized cardigan that can be worn over your clothing or as an extra layer over a dress or shirt. The endless possibilities for mixing and matching make this maxi sweater a unique wardrobe addition. The sleeves are long enough to fit your arms easily, and the wide neckline is just right for layering. This versatile cardigan can be made in various fabrics, including cotton, wool, and knits. Pair it with jeans or another dress for an evening out, or throw it over your favorite dress to add extra warmth on chilly nights.
