Cardigan Knitting Patterns

The Sunlit Meadow Cardigan Free Pattern

Anonymous July 03, 2026
The Sunlit Meadow Cardigan Free Pattern

The Sunlit Meadow Cardigan Free Pattern

Introduction

Embrace the warmth of spring with the Sunlit Meadow Cardigan, a delightful knit project that combines comfort and style. This cardigan features a unique blend of lace and cable stitches, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any wardrobe. Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or just looking for a cozy layer, this cardigan will surely become a favorite in your collection.

Materials Needed

  • Yarn: DK weight, 100% cotton, 800-1200 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

Back Panel

  1. Cast on 110 (120, 130, 140) stitches.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches:
    • Row 1: *K2, P2; repeat from * until the end of the row.
    • Row 2: *P2, K2; repeat from * until the end of the row.
  3. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every row) and work until the piece measures 14 (15, 16, 17) inches from the cast-on edge.

Lace Pattern

  1. Begin lace pattern:
  2. Row 1 (Right Side): K2, *yo, k2tog, k3; repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k2.
  3. Row 2 (Wrong Side): Purl all stitches.
  4. Repeat Rows 1 and 2 for 6 inches.

Armhole Shaping

  1. Bind off 5 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows.
  2. Then decrease 1 stitch at each side every Right Side row 5 times.
  3. Continue until the armhole measures 8 (9, 10, 11) inches.
  4. Bind off all stitches.

Front Panels

  1. For each front panel, cast on 55 (60, 65, 70) stitches.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches (same as back panel).
  3. Switch to stockinette stitch and work until the piece measures 14 (15, 16, 17) inches.

Lace Pattern for Front Panels

  1. Begin lace pattern as for the back panel.
  2. For neckline shaping, when the piece measures 18 (19, 20, 21) inches, bind off 5 stitches at the neck edge once.
  3. Then decrease 1 stitch at the neck edge every Right Side row 5 times.
  4. Work even until the front matches the back in length.
  5. Bind off.
  6. Repeat for the second front panel.

Sleeves

  1. Cast on 50 (55, 60, 65) stitches.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
  3. Switch to stockinette stitch and increase 1 stitch at each side every 8th row until the sleeve measures 18 (19, 20, 21) inches.
  4. Bind off.

Assembly

  1. Block all pieces to measurements.
  2. Sew shoulder seams together.
  3. Set in sleeves by aligning the sleeve caps with the armholes and sewing them in place.
  4. Sew side seams and sleeve seams.

Finishing Touches

  1. Pick up and knit 90 (100, 110, 120) stitches along each front edge and 30 (35, 40, 45) stitches along the back neck.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 1 inch.
  3. Bind off all stitches.
  4. Weave in all ends to finish your cardigan.

Now you have your very own Sunlit Meadow Cardigan! Enjoy wearing your beautiful creation and the compliments that come with it.