🧶 Knitting cardigan pattern: modern and easy ideas to get started without stress

Introduction

Ah, the knitted cardigan... That project we all dream of starting but sometimes put off for fear of failing 😅 Too long? Too complicated? Too many calculations? Not necessarily.

At Knit-sis, we knitted our first cardigans on our grandmother's lap, in a joyful mess of yarn and hot chocolate. Since then, we've simplified, tested, and refined our patterns to make them accessible, fun, and rewarding —even if you've never knitted anything other than a snood.

In this article, we'll help you choose the right cardigan pattern to knit , based on your skill level, style, and available time. We'll also give you our top tips for making your project a success without any hassle.

👩🏫 Which model of knitted cardigan should you choose when you're starting out?

When you're starting out, the ideal is a vest:

▪️ top-down (we start with the neckline),

▪️ seamless,

▪️ in thick wool (it goes up quickly!),

▪️ with a simple stitch (jersey or moss).

🎯 Our favorite recommendation : the Cabbage Vest – Cardichou
A top-down, raglan pattern, using 7 mm needles, soft and quick. Perfect for your first “real garment”!

Remember: the thicker the yarn, the faster you'll progress. Choose a soft, cheerful yarn (we love alpaca-wool blends for this).

🌸 Want a romantic knitted cardigan? Think openwork stitches

If you already have a few projects under your belt (a sweater, a shawl, or a collar), you can tackle a cardigan model with lace or light openwork .

🧵 We are thinking in particular of the model Marguerite , a spring cardigan with openwork floral stitch , perfect for adding a feminine and vintage touch to your wardrobe.

👯 Lenny knitted this for her best friend's wedding over 3 weeks, with Netflix playing in the background. The perfect combo for relaxing while creating a stunning piece.

🌀 The more technical (but rewarding) vest models

Are you looking for a model that's a bit more challenging (without spending 6 months on it)? Here are two options:

1. The retro cable-knit cardigan: Twist & Shout

Inspired by vintage 70s sweaters, with pretty twists dancing across the front.
No need to understand everything at once: we'll guide you stitch by stitch.

2. The modern geometric model: Elmer

A mesmerizing yet easy-to-remember two-tone basket stitch. Ideal if you want a professional-looking finish without the hassle.

📌 Tip: Always print your pattern, highlight the key rows, and check off as you go. Yes, even in 2025. #TeamPaper

🛍️ Where can I find affordable and modern knitting patterns for cardigans?

We're the first to say it: some patterns are too technical, too old, or downright discouraging. That's why we created Knit-sis .

Our vest patterns are:

▪️ available in French 🇫🇷,

▪️ designed for fast and rewarding results,

▪️ tested by knitters of all levels,

▪️ accompanied by videos or tips for key parts.

🎯 To discover:

▪️ The complete collection of vests

▪️ Our bestseller: the Festi vest , a fun, seamless raglan, perfect for getting started.

📚 And if you want to go further, we also recommend this article from Drops on the types of construction of vests.

🧾 Keep on hand: memo sheet “my first knitted cardigan”

🎯 Conclusion: so, when do we start your first cardigan?

Whether you're just starting out or want to add a new cozy piece to your hand-knitted wardrobe, there's bound to be a pattern made for you .

At Knit-sis, we believe that every cardigan can become a source of pride, knitted with love , without stress or hassle.
And if you want a little help choosing your next project…

👉 Explore our complete collection of knitted cardigans here
Or write to us, we love chatting about wool and needles 💌