Free knitting patterns for cardigans with contrasting bodices to the lower body. Many of the patterns are free. Updated 8/4/24
To get the knitting patterns, scroll down the page to the individual pattern you want and click on the link to that pattern.
These patterns are not my designs but links to other designers who have generously shared their patterns. If you have questions about how to knit a specific pattern, please contact the designer directly.
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Free Patterns
Beautiful Cardi AE-1005
Cable panels run down the bodice of this sleeveless cardigan with ribbed collar and cap sleeves. DK weight yarn. Sizes 82 to 102cm / 32" to 41". Designed by Marelie Hurter for African Expressions.
Sea Glass Cardigan
Figure flattering A-line cardigan with lace bodice and cap sleeves. Knit flat with front bands and neck band knit as you go so there's no picking up stitches. Worsted weight yarn. Sizes 32" to 44". Designed by Lynn Anne Banks.
Remember Cardigan
Cardigan with fitted smocked bodice in an 8 row repeat and collar above a flared body. Aran weight yarn. Sizes 32 to 52. Designed by Berroco Design Team.
Textured Top Down Cardigan
A moss stitch bodice adds texture and fit to the top of this cardigan. Knit in one piece from the top down. DK weight yarn. Sizes XS to 3XL. Designed by Cheryl Beckerich for Cascade Yarns.
Walk in the Park Cardi
Color blocked cardigan knit with a zigzag chevron design between bodice color and body color. Button band and neckband are knit separately and sewn on. DK weight yarn. Sizes XS to 5XL. Designed by Caron.
More Free Patterns
Woman’s Rustica Jacket
Cardigan with double-breasted empire bodice in 8 row repeat Flame Stitch. Front bands are knit in with the body as you go. Only stitches picked up are for the collar. Chunky weight yarn. Sizes To Fit Bust: 32in to 55in / 82cm to 137cm. 7119 Jacket designed by Elle.
Gaia Cardigan
Short sleeved sweater with lace empire bodice knit seamlessly in one piece. Designed by Kristen TenDyke for Berroco. Sizes To Fit Bust: 81cm/32in to 132cm/52in. Worsted yarn. This pattern was featured in Season 8 of Knit and Crochet Now! and is free with registration at Annie’s. Pictured project by whirly who lengthened the sleeves-
- Get the free knitting pattern
- Get the Knit and Crochet Now video tutorial for $3.99 (includes instruction for 2 patterns and other techniques)
- Get the recommended Berroco Remix yarn
Celsian Cardigan
Striped textured cardigan with empire waist with pleats below bodice. Bodice and sleeves are knit sideways cuff to cuff and lower cardigan worked bottom up. No picking up of stitches. Aran weight yarn. Sizes To Fit Bust: 32in to 52in / 81cm to 132cm. Designed by Norah Gaughan.
Woman’s Jacket
Long-sleeved cardigan with ribbed bodice and sleeve, empire waist, and body in stockinette. Super Bulky weight yarn. Sizes To Fit Bust: 34in to 50in. Woman’s Jacket in Plymouth Yarn De Aire 2092
Patterns for Purchase
Riptide Cardi
Worked entirely in garter stitch, the unusual construction of this cardigan has an empire bodice knit in one direction and the body of the cardigan knit in a diferent direction. Sizes To Fit Bust/Chest: 32 in to 54 in. 10704 designed by Sirdar. Chunky Weight yarn. A kit is also available.
Aquitaine
Cardigan in two lengths with empire bodice and A-line shaping, knit with two different yet simple slip stitch patterns. The short version is smart and dressy, while the long version is elegant and sophisticated. Sizes XS to 4X. Designed by Holli Yeoh. DK Weight yarn.
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