Free PDF Cardigan Sewing Pattern – Easy to Sew & Love

If there is one handmade piece I keep reaching for when the weather cannot quite decide what it is doing, it is a cardigan.

You can throw it over a tank top in spring, wear it with jeans on a cool summer evening, or make the exact same pattern in a warmer sweater knit for fall. And unlike some knit projects that look simple until you actually start sewing them, this cardigan is surprisingly straightforward to put together.

For this tutorial, I made a free cardigan sewing pattern in 8 sizes and paired it with step-by-step sewing instructions and a full video tutorial, so you can follow whichever way makes the most sense to you.

The pattern uses a simple front, back, sleeves and cardigan band, so there are no complicated closures to deal with. If you are fairly new to sewing stretchy fabrics, this is also a really nice project for practicing knit seams without jumping straight into something very fitted.

I made mine as an easy everyday layering piece, but fabric changes the whole look. French terry makes it relaxed and casual, sweater knit makes it cozy, and a softer jersey gives it much more drape.

And yes — the PDF cardigan pattern is free for my subscribers. You will find the download at the end of this post.

If sewing knits still makes you a little nervous, have a quick look at my beginner guide to sewing knit fabric before you start. A few small changes to your needle and stitch settings make this project much easier.

Now let’s make the cardigan.

About This Free Cardigan Sewing Pattern

This free cardigan sewing pattern is designed to be simple, comfortable and easy to wear. It has an open front, long sleeves and a relaxed shape that makes it perfect for layering over T-shirts, tank tops and dresses.

The pattern comes in 8 sizes and is made for knit fabrics, so you can completely change the look depending on what you choose. French terry gives you a casual everyday cardigan, sweater knit makes it warmer and cozier, while a softer jersey creates a lighter cardigan with more drape.

I also wanted this to be a pattern you can actually enjoy sewing, especially if you are still getting used to stretchy fabrics. There are no buttons, zippers or complicated closures, and the construction is quite straightforward once the pieces are cut.

With this tutorial you get:

• a free PDF cardigan sewing pattern in 8 sizes
• step-by-step photo instructions
• a full video sewing tutorial
• fabric and cutting tips
• seam allowance already included in the pattern
• instructions that work with a regular sewing machine or serger

You will find the free cardigan sewing pattern in all 8 sizes at the end of this post, so you can follow the tutorial first and download the PDF when you are ready to start sewing.

And if printable patterns are still a little confusing, I also have a separate guide showing exactly how to print and assemble a PDF sewing pattern. It is especially useful if this is your first time working with a home-printed pattern.

Once you have chosen your fabric and printed your size, we can move on to cutting the cardigan pieces and sewing everything together.

Watch the Cardigan Sewing Video Tutorial

If you prefer seeing each step in action, I also made a full cardigan sewing video tutorial to go with this free pattern.

In the video, you can follow the whole process from the cut pattern pieces to the finished cardigan, including sewing the shoulder seams, attaching the sleeves, closing the side seams and adding the front band.

I especially recommend watching the video if you are new to sewing knit fabrics. Sometimes seeing how the fabric is handled at the machine makes much more sense than trying to explain every little movement in photos.

You can watch the video first and then use the step-by-step tutorial below while you sew, or simply keep it open next to your sewing machine and follow along at your own pace.

Free cardigan sewing pattern + video tutorial = everything you need to sew this project from start to finish.

Materials & Tools Needed

Materials:

• Knit fabric (Sweater knit, French terry, cotton jersey, bamboo jersey) – Provides stretch and comfort for a perfect fit.
• Fusible interfacing – Helps stabilize areas like the wide neckband and prevents stretching.(optional)
• Clear tape or glue stick – For assembling trimless pages of the digital PDF sewing pattern if printing at home.
• Thread – Choose a thread that matches your fabric for a polished finish.
• Optional: Patch pockets – Great for a functional and stylish touch.

Tools:

• Sewing machine with a stretch stitch or serger – Essential for sewing knit fabrics while maintaining flexibility.
• Fabric scissors or rotary cutter – For precise alignment of the pattern pieces and clean fabric cuts. Learn more on using scissors.
• Pins or clips – Helps keep fabric layers secure while sewing.
• Measuring tape – To check your bust circumference, waist circumference, and hip circumference for the best fit.
• Iron– Helps press seams and apply fusible interfacing for a professional look.
• Seam ripper – Fixes any mistakes easily, learn how to use it here.

You will also need a magnetic seam guide or a magnet to help you sew evenly.

These materials and tools ensure an easy sew experience, whether you’re a confident beginner or an experienced sewist.

Choosing the right fabric makes a surprisingly big difference with this cardigan. You want something stretchy enough to feel comfortable, but with enough recovery that the cardigan keeps its shape instead of stretching out while you wear it.

For most versions, I would choose a light- to medium-weight knit fabric. The exact fabric depends on whether you want your cardigan to feel soft and drapey or a little warmer and more structured.

Best Fabrics for This Cardigan

French terry is one of my favorite choices for an everyday cardigan. It is soft, comfortable and has a little more body than regular jersey, so it is also quite nice to work with if you are still getting used to sewing knits.

Sweater knit is perfect if you want a cozier fall or winter version. Just keep in mind that sweater knits can vary a lot — some are stable and easy to sew, while others are very stretchy or loose.

Cotton jersey will give you a lighter, more casual cardigan that works well for layering. A slightly more stable jersey is easier to handle than a very thin, slippery one.

Bamboo or viscose jersey creates a softer cardigan with more drape and movement. I love this option when I want the front of the cardigan to fall more softly rather than hold a structured shape.

Cotton Lycra or another knit with good recovery is another good choice if you prefer a cardigan that feels a little more fitted and keeps its shape well after wearing.

If you are standing in a fabric shop wondering what the difference between all those jerseys, French terries and sweater knits actually is, have a look at my guide to different types of knit fabrics. I explain the most common types there and which ones are easier to sew, which can make choosing fabric for this cardigan much simpler.

How Much Fabric Do You Need?

The amount of fabric you need depends mainly on your pattern size and the finished length of the cardigan. Fabric width can also make a difference, so I always recommend checking that all of your pattern pieces will fit before you start cutting.

For the sizes listed below, these are good approximate amounts:

Cardigan Length	XS–M	L–XXL
Short Cardigan	1.5 yd / 1.4 m	2 yd / 1.8 m
Medium-Length Cardigan	2 yd / 1.8 m	2.5 yd / 2.3 m
Long Cardigan	2.5 yd / 2.3 m	3 yd / 2.7 m

I usually prefer buying a little more rather than trying to squeeze every pattern piece onto the very last inch of fabric. You may also need some extra fabric if you want to add patch pockets, lengthen the cardigan or sleeves, match stripes or checks, or make another small adjustment to the pattern. If you want to add pockets to your cardigan, you can use one of the free templates from my guide to 12 different types of pockets

Before cutting, wash and dry your fabric the same way you plan to care for the finished cardigan. Knits can behave differently after washing, and it is much nicer to discover that before cutting your pattern pieces rather than after the cardigan is finished.

If this is your first time sewing this kind of fabric, my beginner guide to sewing stretch fabric covers the needles, stitches and basic setup I use for knit projects.

And if you have sewn knits before but ended up with wavy seams, skipped stitches or stretched edges, you might also want to keep my guide to common knit sewing mistakes open while you sew. Most of those little knit-fabric problems are much easier to prevent than to fix later.

Once your fabric is washed, pressed and ready, you can move on to laying out the pattern pieces and cutting your cardigan.

Make Your Own Cardigan – Step-by-Step Sewing Instructions

Cutting the Pattern Pieces

• Front – Cut 2
• Back – Cut 1 on fold
• Sleeves – Cut 2
• Neckband – Cut 1 on fold

If you are still getting comfortable with laying pattern pieces on fabric, my beginner guide to cutting sewing patterns shows the whole process step by step.

Sewing the Shoulder Seams

With right sides together, pin the front and back pieces at the shoulders. Sew along the shoulder seams.

Attaching the Sleeves

With right sides together, align each sleeve with the armhole, ensuring the back matches the back and the front matches the front. Pin in place and sew.

Sewing the Side Seams

With right sides together, pin the sleeve and side seams. Sew from the sleeve cuff down to the hem of the cardigan in one continuous stitch.

Attaching the Cardigan Band

1. Prepare the Band: Fold the front band in half lengthwise, right sides together, and sew along the bottom edge. Turn it right side out.
2. Attach the Band: With right sides together, pin the cardigan band along the front opening and neckline. Sew in place.
3. Finishing the Bottom Edge: Fold the bottom edge of the cardigan right sides together, aligning the side seams with the front band seam, and sew. Turn right side out.

Hemming the Cardigan

• Bottom Hem: Fold up the bottom edge, pin, and sew.
• Sleeve Hem: Fold up the sleeve cuffs, pin, and sew.

Your cardigan is now complete!

How to Style Your Cardigan

This cardigan is one of those handmade pieces that works with almost everything in my wardrobe.

For an easy everyday outfit, wear it over my simple tank top with high-waist wide-leg pants or my Scandi pants.

For something more feminine, layer it over my beginner knit dress or sleeveless midi dress.

I also love a shorter cardigan with a fuller bottom, like my maxi tiered skirt or wrap skort.

That is probably my favorite thing about this pattern — you can sew one simple cardigan and wear it with so many other pieces you have already made.

Cardigan Sewing Pattern FAQ

Can I sew this cardigan on a regular sewing machine?

Yes. You do not need a serger to sew this cardigan. Use a ballpoint or stretch needle and a stitch that can stretch with the fabric, such as a narrow zigzag or your machine’s stretch stitch.

What fabric is best for this cardigan pattern?

A knit with good stretch and recovery works best. French terry is a nice beginner-friendly option, while sweater knit creates a warmer cardigan and softer jersey gives the finished cardigan more drape.

Is seam allowance included in the pattern?

Yes. The seam allowance is already included in the PDF pattern, so you do not need to add it before cutting your fabric.

Is the cardigan sewing pattern really free?

Yes. The PDF cardigan sewing pattern is free for my subscribers and includes 8 sizes. You can find the subscriber download at the end of this tutorial.

What Could You Sew Next?

If you enjoyed making this cardigan, I would definitely stay with knit fabrics for your next project while everything is still fresh in your head.

A really easy next step is my free sweater sewing pattern in 8 sizes. You will already be familiar with sewing stretchy fabric and attaching sleeves, but the finished project feels completely different. It is one of those nice patterns to try when you want to build a small handmade wardrobe instead of sewing completely unrelated pieces each time.

If you would rather make something you can wear as a whole outfit, try my beginner knit dress sewing pattern and video tutorial. It is another good project for getting more confident with knits, especially if you are still learning how different stretchy fabrics behave while sewing.

And when you feel like switching from soft knit layers to something a little more structured, my free quilted jacket sewing pattern is a fun next challenge. I love having both types of layers in my wardrobe, an easy cardigan for everyday wear and a slightly more structured jacket when I want something warmer.

You can also have a look through my fall handmade wardrobe ideas if you are not quite sure what you want to sew next. I put together several projects there that work really well together, so it is a nice place to get ideas before choosing your next pattern.

Or, if you want to keep practicing with stretchy fabrics but are not sure what to make next, have a look through my easy knit sewing projects and tips. I collected several knit projects there, so you can choose something that feels like the right next step.

If you make this cardigan, I would love to see what fabric you choose and how you style it. One simple pattern can look completely different in sweater knit, French terry or a lighter jersey, which is probably my favorite thing about sewing your own clothes.

Ready to Sew Your Cardigan?

And that’s it — once you have sewn the hems, your cardigan is ready to wear.

I really like how much you can change this pattern simply by changing the fabric. Make it in a lightweight jersey for an easy layering piece, use French terry for an everyday cardigan, or choose a cozy sweater knit and suddenly the same pattern feels completely different.

If you make your own version, I would genuinely love to see it. Feel free to share it with me or tag @sparrowrefashion so I can see which fabric and length you chose.

Ready to make yours? The free cardigan sewing pattern in 8 sizes is waiting for you just below.

In this post, you have learned how to sew DIY cardigan with free sewing pattern.

Free Cardigan Sewing Pattern