Cardigan Knitting Patterns
The Sunlit Meadow Cardigan Free Pattern
Anonymous
•
July 02, 2026
The Sunlit Meadow Cardigan Free Pattern
Introduction
Capture the essence of a sunlit meadow with this charming cardigan, featuring delicate lacework and a relaxed fit. Perfect for layering over your favorite outfits, this piece combines elegance with everyday comfort. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, this pattern will guide you through creating a beautiful addition to your wardrobe.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: DK weight, 100% cotton, approximately 1000-1500 yards depending on size
- Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) knitting needles
- Gauge: 22 stitches and 30 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sizes Available:
XS (S, M, L, XL, XXL)
Back
- Cast on 90 (100, 110, 120, 130, 140) stitches.
- Work in stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl the next) for 2 inches.
- Begin lace pattern:
- Row 1 (Right Side): Knit 2, *yarn over (yo), knit 2 together (k2tog), knit 3; repeat from * to last 2 stitches, knit 2.
- Row 2 (Wrong Side): Purl all stitches.
- Repeat these 2 rows until the piece measures 18 (19, 20, 21, 22, 23) inches from the cast-on edge.
- Shape shoulders: Bind off 5 (5, 6, 6, 7, 7) stitches at the beginning of the next 4 rows, then 6 (6, 7, 7, 8, 8) stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows. Bind off remaining stitches for the neck.
Front (Make 2)
- Cast on 45 (50, 55, 60, 65, 70) stitches.
- Work in stockinette stitch for 2 inches.
- Begin lace pattern as for back.
- When the piece measures 14 (15, 16, 17, 18, 19) inches, begin neck shaping:
- Bind off 5 stitches at the neck edge once, then decrease 1 stitch at the neck edge every other row 5 times.
- When the front matches the back in length, shape the shoulder as for the back.
Sleeves (Make 2)
- Cast on 50 (55, 60, 65, 70, 75) stitches.
- Work in stockinette stitch for 2 inches.
- Increase 1 stitch at each end of every 8th row until there are 70 (75, 80, 85, 90, 95) stitches.
- Work even until the sleeve measures 18 (19, 20, 21, 22, 23) inches.
- Bind off all stitches.
Finishing
- Sew shoulder seams together.
- Set in sleeves by attaching them to the armholes.
- Sew side seams and sleeve seams.
- Pick up and knit 100 (110, 120, 130, 140, 150) stitches along each front edge and 30 (30, 32, 32, 34, 34) stitches along the back neck.
- Work in k1, p1 rib for 1 inch. Bind off all stitches in ribbing.
- Weave in all ends and block to measurements for a polished finish.
Enjoy your beautiful Sunlit Meadow Cardigan, a perfect blend of elegance and comfort!