Cardigan Knitting Patterns

The Sunlit Meadow Cardigan Free Pattern

Anonymous July 02, 2026
The Sunlit Meadow Cardigan Free Pattern

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

  1. Cast on 90 (100, 110, 120, 130, 140) stitches.
  2. Work in stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl the next) for 2 inches.
  3. 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.
  4. Repeat these 2 rows until the piece measures 18 (19, 20, 21, 22, 23) inches from the cast-on edge.
  5. 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)

  1. Cast on 45 (50, 55, 60, 65, 70) stitches.
  2. Work in stockinette stitch for 2 inches.
  3. Begin lace pattern as for back.
  4. 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.
  5. When the front matches the back in length, shape the shoulder as for the back.

Sleeves (Make 2)

  1. Cast on 50 (55, 60, 65, 70, 75) stitches.
  2. Work in stockinette stitch for 2 inches.
  3. Increase 1 stitch at each end of every 8th row until there are 70 (75, 80, 85, 90, 95) stitches.
  4. Work even until the sleeve measures 18 (19, 20, 21, 22, 23) inches.
  5. Bind off all stitches.

Finishing

  1. Sew shoulder seams together.
  2. Set in sleeves by attaching them to the armholes.
  3. Sew side seams and sleeve seams.
  4. 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.
  5. Work in k1, p1 rib for 1 inch. Bind off all stitches in ribbing.
  6. 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!