Cardigans: Modern & Easy Knitting Patterns for All Skill Levels 🧶

Ah… the knitted cardigan ❤️! It’s THE piece that accompanies us all year round: over jeans in autumn, over a dress in spring, or for total cocooning at home.
When we were little, our grandmother knitted cardigans for the whole family: timeless basics but also more original pieces that turned heads.

At Knit-sis, we've kept this passion, but we've added our signature: accessible, modern, colorful models, designed to give maximum pleasure to knitting - even if it's your first cardigan.

In this article, you will discover:

▪️ The different types of cardigans to knit (from the simplest to the most technical)

▪️ How to choose the right thread and style

▪️ Our favorite Knit-sis models

▪️ A quick beginner tutorial to help you get started

▪️ Exclusive tips for success every time

Why knit a cardigan?

(and why it's not just for experienced knitters)

▪️ Total versatility : a vest can be worn in any season.

▪️ Rewarding project : nothing is more motivating than seeing your knitting become a real wardrobe piece.

▪️ Endless customization : colors, stitches, lengths… everything is possible.

▪️ Ideal for progressing : learning how to make increases, buttonholes, or knit in the round.

💡 Knit-sis tip: a cardigan is often knitted faster than you think... especially on thick needles like ours Cardichou , perfect for a first soft project.

The Great Styles of Knitted Cardigans

1. The basic jersey or garter stitch cardigan

▪️ Easy to make , even for beginners

▪️ Straight shape, single sleeves

▪️ Perfect for testing a first big project
📌 Inspiration: the Cardichou , knitted in top-down raglan with large needles – zero seams, 100% fun.

2. The textured vest (cables, openwork stitches)

▪️ Brings relief and character

▪️ Ideal for playing with light and shadows
📌 Inspiration: the Twist & Shout for a retro chic style.

3. The lace vest

▪️ Light, romantic, perfect for mid-season
📌 Inspiration: our Aude vest , with its feminine and elegant details.

4. The modern and oversized vest

▪️ Ultimate comfort, trendy look

▪️ Easy to wear with everything

Choosing the right yarn for your cardigan

(for a great result that is comfortable to wear)

💬 Knit-sis tip : before you start, always knit a swatch to avoid unpleasant surprises (a cardigan that's too small or too big, we know... and it's frustrating!).

Quick Tutorial: Beginner Top-Down Vest

(seamless, perfect for getting started)

Material

▪️ 7 mm circular needles

▪️ Suitable yarn (chunky merino type)

▪️ Markers, wool needle

Steps

1️⃣ Cast on the number of stitches indicated according to your size.

2️⃣ Place your markers to separate sleeves and body.

3️⃣ Knit , increasing at each raglan until you reach the correct width.

4️⃣ Separate the sleeves and continue the body.

5️⃣ Take the sleeves and knit them in the round.

6️⃣ Add borders or buttons as you wish.

Knit-sis tips for the perfect cardigan

▪️ Always block your knitting after completion: it changes everything.

▪️ Customize : add pockets, embroidery, stripes…

▪️ Think longevity : choose quality threads that don't pill quickly.

Conclusion

The cardigan is the knitted piece that combines the pleasure of creating, utility and style .
Whether you choose a simple pattern or a more elaborate stitch, the important thing is to get started... and enjoy every stitch 🧵.

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👉 Also discover our complete collection of modern knitted cardigans and find your next favorite.