Looking for children’s knitting patterns for every season? Browse my free knitting pattern page for sweaters, tees, and more!
When it comes to knitting, I don’t think there’s a more satisfying project. Children’s knitting patterns give you that perfect middle ground—not too small, not too large, and definitely not boring. Whether it’s a lightweight tee for sunny spring days or a cozy cardigan to bundle up in for church, there’s a pattern for every occasion tucked into my blog. I’ve pulled together some of my favorite children’s knitting patterns to inspire your next project, all tried and tested by my own little crew.
So whether you’re a mom, a grandma, or just someone who loves knitting gifts for the littles in your life, I hope you’ll find something here to cast on next. Let’s dive into these fun, wearable, and practical patterns!
Youth Deborah Tee – Perfect for Spring Picnics
The Youth Deborah Tee is my go-to knit when the warmer weather hits. This lightweight top is breezy, comfortable, and a quick knit that still feels special. I designed it with hot weather in mind—ideal for layering over a tank or wearing solo on sunny days.
The tee is made using KnitPicks Samia yarn (affiliate link), which is a light and silky plant-based yarn. It drapes beautifully and holds up great to the very real adventures of childhood—mud puddles, playgrounds, and all.
Of all the children’s knitting patterns I’ve created, this one screams summer the loudest.
👉 Youth Deborah Tee Free Pattern
Youth Noah Pullover – Sunday Best or Everyday Favorite
Need a pullover that looks sharp and feels cozy? The Youth Noah Pullover checks every box. It has a clean, timeless silhouette with just the right amount of structure to work for dressier occasions—perfect for Sunday service or family photos.
It’s knit in KnitPicks Mighty Stitch (affiliate link), which is super soft, budget-friendly, and machine washable (praise hands!). This yarn makes it easy to create something beautiful without being too precious. My boys love how comfy it feels, and I love how polished it looks. Children’s knitting patterns that blend comfort and style? Yes, please.
👉 Youth Noah Pullover Free Patterns
Youth Damask Cardigan – Layers for School Days and Special Moments
The Youth Damask Cardigan is one of those pieces that feels heirloom-worthy. With a feminine shape and a delicate yet modern design, it’s one of my most loved children’s knitting patterns for girls.
I used Cascade 220 Superwash for this cardigan (affiliate link). It’s soft but sturdy, and the stitch definition makes the textures pop beautifully. This is a cardigan you’ll want to knit in every color. It’s perfect for layering over dresses or pairing with jeans for a casual but pretty outfit.
This pattern has been such a hit that I’ve had more than a few requests for an adult version (maybe someday!).
👉 Youth Damask Cardigan Free Pattern
Youth Wheat Cardigan – Classic Texture with Everyday Wearability
I adore texture in children’s knitting patterns, and the Youth Wheat Cardigan is full of it. The wheat stitch adds so much dimension without being overly complicated—a win for knitters and wearers alike.
This one uses KnitPicks Capretta (affiliate link), which gives it a slightly elevated feel. Capretta is a luxury blend that’s soft and warm but not fussy. It makes even the most practical knits feel a little extra. The Youth Wheat Cardigan is cozy enough for winter wear but stylish enough to toss over a spring dress or school uniform.
This one gets worn a lot at our house.
👉 Youth Wheat Cardigan Free Pattern
Youth Granite Pullover – Textured and Timeless
The Youth Granite Pullover is a staple piece. It’s textured, warm, and makes a great first sweater project for knitters who want to move beyond stockinette but aren’t quite ready to dive into cables or lace. It’s simple to knit, but the finished look is anything but boring.
I knit this one in Berroco Ultra Alpaca (affiliate link), which is one of my favorite yarns for children’s knitting patterns. It holds up well and is so soft because of that touch of alpaca, and the wide color range makes it easy to find the perfect shade for your child.
I’ve made a few of these in different sizes, and they’re always the ones that get handed down.
👉 Youth Granite Pullover Free Pattern
Youth Peter Sweater – Everyday Essential for Boys
The Youth Peter Sweater is my “throw it on and go” kind of knit. It has that classic v-neck look boys (and their moms) love—nothing fancy, just timeless good looks and a cozy fit.
This one also uses KnitPicks Mighty Stitch (affiliate link), which makes it both soft and durable—because we all know kids aren’t exactly gentle on their clothes. The pattern includes easy-to-follow shaping and clear instructions, which makes it a great project if you’re new to sweater knitting.
Among all the children’s knitting patterns for boys I’ve written, this one is probably the most worn in our house.
👉 Youth Peter Sweater Free Pattern
Child Ocean Skirt – Twirly, Sweet, and Fun to Knit
You didn’t think I’d forget the twirl factor, did you? The Child Ocean Skirt is one of my favorite children’s knitting patterns for warmer weather and dress-up days. It’s light, soft, and full of bounce—the kind of skirt that makes kids want to spin in circles for no reason at all (ask me how I know).
It’s knit in KnitPicks Heatherly (affiliate link), a soft and plush yarn that’s gentle against sensitive skin but still holds its shape beautifully. Whether it’s paired with tights in the fall or worn over a swimsuit in the summer, this skirt brings a little joy to every outfit.
This is one of those children’s knitting patterns that’s just plain fun to make and even more fun to see in action.
👉 Child Ocean Skirt Free Pattern
Why I Love Designing Children’s Knitting Patterns
There’s something so joyful about creating pieces for kids. They don’t need much yardage, they work up faster than adult knits, and they tend to actually wear them (especially if they helped pick the color).
Children’s knitting patterns are also incredibly versatile. You can add personal touches, choose bright or muted colors, and adapt them to fit any style. And because kids grow, you always have a reason to knit another size. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Whether you’re looking for a sweater for chilly fall days, a lightweight tee for spring outings, or a cardigan to toss on over a Sunday dress, these children’s knitting patterns cover all the bases.
And the best part? You can find all these free patterns right on my blog—no subscriptions, no paywalls, just joyful knits from one busy mom to another.
I’d love to know—what’s your favorite thing to knit for kids? Drop a comment below and tell me what you’re casting on next!
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