Looking for child cardigan knitting patterns you’ll want to knit again and again? Peep free patterns below. Looking for more? Browse my favorite free sweater patterns on this page!
When it comes to knitting for kids, cardigans are one of my absolute favorite projects. They’re functional, layer-friendly, and knit up surprisingly fast—especially when you’re not making a full adult-sized piece. In today’s post, I’m rounding up six child cardigan knitting patterns that I’ve personally designed and absolutely adore. Each one has its own personality—from zippers and lace to raglan shaping and textured details—and I’ll give you the scoop on what makes each one fun to knit (and even more fun to wear).
These child cardigan knitting patterns are all free right here on my blog, so you can get started today. I’ll also share what yarns I used and love for each one, just in case you need a little inspiration before casting on.
Let’s dive into my favorite child cardigan knitting patterns!
1. Mary Cardigan
The Mary Cardigan is the definition of a classic. This is one of those child cardigan knitting patterns that works for nearly any occasion—church, school, family gatherings, or just tossing on over pajamas when it’s chilly.
The cardigan features a simple lace design with long sleeves, button band, and a comfy fit that gives it a timeless feel. I love the easy-to-remember stitch repeat, which makes it a relaxing project when you just want to knit without too much thought.
I used Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday Worsted (Affiliate link) for this one, and the finished result is so soft and durable that it’s held up beautifully through wash after wash. Whether you’re knitting for your own kids or a gift, this cardigan’s sure to be worn on repeat.
Child cardigan knitting patterns like this one are perfect for beginners ready to branch into garment-making.
2. Rosemary Cardigan
If you’re looking for something a little more trendy with a feminine touch, the Rosemary Cardigan is a dream. This pattern is a long open front cardigan with deep comfy pockets.
This cardigan has a slightly relaxed feel than the others in this list, which makes it a great option for snow days, holidays, or just layering over jeans or leggings.
I knit this one in KnitPicks Upcycle Alpaca Worsted (Affiliate link), which gives it a warm and slightly fuzzy texture that’s gentle on sensitive skin. This yarn is a great sustainable option, too, which makes me feel good about every stitch.
Of all the child cardigan knitting patterns I’ve written, this one feels like it grew straight from a vintage inspiration board—and I’m here for it.
👉 Rosemary Cardigan Free Pattern
3. September Open Front Cardigan
Now this one is for the kiddos who never button up their cardigans anyway! The September Open Front Cardigan is cozy and casual with no closures at all—just a drapey, open front that’s perfect for layering.
It’s knit in one piece from the top down with raglan sleeves, making it easy to customize the length of both the sleeves and body. This is one of the most beginner-friendly child cardigan knitting patterns on my blog, since you don’t have to worry about buttonholes or sewing in a zipper.
I used Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling Everyday DK(Affiliate link), because it’s soft, sturdy, and machine-washable. This has become a go-to yarn for my everyday knits. Because it’s acrylic you will need to steam block the ribbed edge but it will last you for years!
If you want a cardigan your kiddo can throw on like a jacket or even wear around the house like a housecoat, this one’s a keeper.
👉 September Open Front Cardigan Free Pattern
4. Judah Zipped Cardigan
Okay, let’s talk about zippers for a second. They might sound intimidating at first, but trust me—if I can do it, you can do it. The Judah Zipped Cardigan is one of my more “sporty” child cardigan knitting patterns, with a clean zip-up front and a slightly structured look that works great for boys or girls.
The body has a simple rib stitch that adds just enough visual interest without being fussy. Plus, I link you to the tutorial I used to learn how to sew in the zipper in the blog post, so you don’t have to guess!
I used KnitPicks Upcycle Alpaca Worsted (Affiliate link), which has a lovely balance of warmth and breathability. This yarn is especially nice for cardigans worn outdoors or layered under jackets in cooler weather.
This child cardigan knitting pattern has become a favorite in our house, especially with my more active kiddos who don’t love buttons or anything too “fancy.”
👉 Judah Zipped Cardigan Free Pattern
5. Wheat Cardigan
You know I love a good wheat stitch. It’s one of those stitch patterns that looks fancy but is super beginner-friendly, and it gives such a pretty texture to garments. The Wheat Cardigan uses this stitch throughout the body and sleeves for a cozy, rustic vibe that makes it feel like something you’d see in a storybook.
The cardigan is worked from the bottom up with drop sleeve shaping, and I’ve sized it to fit toddlers through big kids. It’s one of the child cardigan knitting patterns I reach for when I want a design that’s both photogenic and practical.
I knit this one using KnitPicks Capretta (Affiliate link), a soft merino and cashmere blend that feels ultra-luxurious and totally wearable. This yarn gives the finished cardigan a really nice drape and makes it feel extra special.
The Wheat Cardigan is perfect for dressing up without dressing up, if you know what I mean.
6. Damask Cardigan
Last but definitely not least, the Damask Cardigan brings a splash of elegance to the table. This one features a textured motif on the front and back panels, paired with simple sleeves and a clean neckline. If you enjoy knitting simple knit purl projects, this pattern will be a treat.
It’s a little more intricate looking than some of the others here, but I promise it’s so much easier than it looks. I designed this pattern to look like something you’d find in a boutique store, and every time one of my girls wears it, I get compliments.
I used Cascade 220 Superwash (Affiliate link), which blocks beautifully and holds the lace definition really well. The superwash wool means it’s machine-washable too, so it’s still totally practical for everyday wear.
Of all my child cardigan knitting patterns, this one makes me feel the most “wow, I really made that!” It’s fun, it’s flattering, and it’s sure to be handed down to the next kid (and the next!).
👉 Damask Cardigan Free Pattern
Final Thoughts on These Child Cardigan Knitting Patterns
If you’ve been hunting for child cardigan knitting patterns that are cute, cozy, and practical, I hope this list gave you a few new ones to try! Each of these designs brings something a little different to the table—from lace details to everyday simplicity—and all of them are kid-tested and parent-approved in my house.
You really can’t go wrong with any of these child cardigan knitting patterns, whether you’re looking for a simple layering piece, a dressy option, or something with a bit of flair. And the best part? They’re all available free on my blog. So you can knit them all without spending a penny on the pattern. And if the yarn is already in your stash, knitter math says that’s free. 😉
If you try one, I’d love to hear which one you picked—or which one you’re casting on next! Leave me a comment and let’s talk cardigans. And if you’ve already knit one of these, post a picture on Instagram and tag me—I love seeing your work!
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