15 Knitting Patterns for Women: Sweaters, Cardigans & Tops PDF Patterns with Video Tutorials
Knitted sweaters and tops remain an irreplaceable wardrobe foundation—from refined lace designs to cozy textured pieces. This collection showcases diverse techniques: traditional Guernsey patterns to modern oversized silhouettes. Each model balances wearability with aesthetics, offering clear instructions across skill levels
Chunky Sweater Knitting Pattern
Luxurious mohair blend meets bold cable detailing in this oversized sweater that balances comfort with striking visual texture. Working across multiple needle sizes creates dimensional structure, while the chunky yarn makes the project surprisingly quick despite its sophisticated appearance.
Sized for versatile wear (bust 33½″–45¼″), this piece drapes beautifully over jeans or dresses. The cropped silhouette and vest-style option give it modern appeal, while traditional cable patterns keep it timeless. Fisherman rib creates soft, plush fabric perfect for layering.
Designed for intermediate knitters with beginner-friendly guidance, the pattern includes comprehensive video tutorial and detailed written instructions. Multiple yarn alternatives ensure accessibility, while the gauge-focused approach guarantees professional results across all sizes.
RHUE, Knitting Pattern for a Guernsey
Traditional fisherman’s construction gets refined execution in this classic guernsey that honors Scottish coastal heritage. The combination of rib welts, textured body panels, and twisted yoke details creates authentic character without unnecessary complication.
Generous sizing (39¼″–58¼″ bust) makes this genuinely unisex, with optional length adjustments for different proportions. Worked on circular needles until the armhole, then finished flat, it offers flexibility in construction method. The 2-ply jumper weight wool creates durable, warm fabric built for real wear.
Requiring intermediate-to-advanced skills, the pattern provides both charts and detailed written instructions in metric and imperial measurements. The traditional Shetland wool construction delivers authentic texture and longevity that improves with wear.
SHEILA, Woollen Lace Jumper for Ladies
Delicate all-over lace transforms traditional Shetland wool into something unexpectedly refined. Modified drop-shoulder sleeves with underarm gussets create comfortable movement, while the rolling stockinette neckline keeps finishing clean and minimal.
Measuring 38½″–45¼″ at the bust with customizable length, this jumper works beautifully for layering or wearing solo. Constructed in rounds until armholes, it minimizes seaming while the top-down sleeve technique adds structural interest. The fine 2-ply yarn creates ethereal fabric with surprising warmth.
This advanced pattern demands attention to lace techniques but rewards careful work with elegant drape and professional finish. Accurate gauge is essential—the washed sample measurement ensures proper fit after blocking.
Ciminna Lady’s Woollen Pullover
Relaxed drape and textured garter stitch define this spacious pullover that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing structure. The deep-cut armholes require precise sleeve joining, creating a distinctive silhouette that stands apart from standard drop-shoulder designs.
Roomy proportions (43¼″–61½″ bust) create effortless layering potential, while the shorter length (19¾″–21¾″) keeps it contemporary. Worked in rounds until armholes with flat sleeve options, the construction offers versatility. The turtleneck adds warmth and classic appeal.
Advanced-intermediate knitters will appreciate the detailed guidance through challenging armhole construction. DK-weight merino provides substantial fabric with beautiful drape, while numerous yarn alternatives ensure material accessibility across regions.
Aransine – a Cotton Jumper for Kids
Practical cotton construction meets elegant texture in this children’s raglan sweater designed for real movement and daily wear. The furrowed border pattern and slanting purl columns add visual interest without complication, while the seamless yoke construction eliminates bulk at shoulders.
Sized thoughtfully for ages 8–14 (30″–34¾″ chest), with proportional length increases that accommodate growth spurts. The cotton fiber choice ensures breathability and easy laundering—essential for children’s garments. Long raglan sleeves provide coverage and flexibility.
Intermediate-level pattern guides you through bottom-up construction with clear instructions in both metric and imperial measurements. DK-weight cotton works up smoothly, creating durable fabric that softens beautifully with wear and washing.
ELISABETTA, Top or Vest in Silk
Pure silk creates luxurious drape in this fitted top with decorative textured panel positioned strategically just below the bust. Rolled edges throughout provide elegant finishing without additional bands, while the silk’s natural expansion after washing requires mindful sizing.
Measurements range 31½″–48″ bust with note that yarn expands 5–6% in wear, explaining the smaller initial dimensions. Work in rounds or flat depending on preference—both construction methods included. Layer under sweaters or wear solo in warmer weather.
Intermediate knitters need solid gauge awareness—26 stitches per 10cm on 2.75mm needles creates fine fabric. The bourette silk original offers beautiful texture, though cotton alternatives work equally well for different fiber preferences and budgets.
NAOMI, Knitting Pattern
Breathable lace pattern and short modified drop-shoulder sleeves create ideal warm-weather knitting. The square neckline adds architectural interest, while garter stitch edges on neck, sleeves, and hem provide stable finishing that won’t curl.
Sizing accommodates 36¼″–50½″ bust with generous ease for summer comfort. Customizable length ensures perfect proportion across body types. Egyptian cotton delivers crisp stitch definition that showcases the lace pattern beautifully while remaining cool against skin.
Upper-intermediate pattern requires confident lace reading—both charts and written instructions provided. Washed gauge measurement (24 stitches per 10cm) ensures accurate fit after blocking, critical for proper drape in cotton fabric.
Winter Wonderland Story Cardigan
Seamless top-down construction and cable detailing create heirloom-quality cardigan spanning children’s through adult sizing. Three-needle bind-off at shoulders provides invisible joining, while short-row sleeve caps create polished shaping without complex techniques.
Comprehensive size range (12 months through adult 62) makes this genuinely multi-generational. The luxurious merino-silk-cashmere blend held double creates substantial fabric with exceptional softness. Worked entirely in rounds until separation, it minimizes finishing work.
Medium-difficulty pattern includes both charted and written cable instructions, accommodating different working preferences. Precise yardage calculations for each size eliminate guesswork in yarn purchasing—especially important with premium fiber blends.
Winter Adventure Sweater
Classic bottom-up construction meets straightforward cable work in this children’s sweater designed for confident intermediate knitters. Three-needle bind-off shoulders create clean finishing, while one-piece-to-armhole construction minimizes seaming on small garments.
Sized specifically for ages 2–14 with careful attention to proportional increases. Multiple yarn options—from luxury cashmere blends to practical merino—ensure accessibility across budgets. Simple cables add texture without overwhelming young wearers or exhausting knitters.
Pattern presents instructions both written and charted simultaneously, letting you choose preferred format. Basic increases (M1R, M1L) and straightforward cable techniques keep the skill level approachable while building confidence in structure and shaping.
Siri Summer Top
Elegant lace pattern creates lightweight summer knitting in this sleeveless design. The pattern bridges skill levels—accessible enough for lace beginners while remaining engaging for experienced knitters who enjoy rhythmic stitch patterns.
Available in three sizes (XS through L-XL), it offers streamlined sizing for quick decision-making. The sleeveless construction makes this ideal warm-weather project, working up relatively quickly while providing satisfying lace practice without overwhelming commitment.
Bilingual instructions (Swedish and English) expand accessibility. The “not too complicated” lace approach encourages skill development without intimidation—perfect for knitters ready to expand beyond stockinette but cautious about complex chart reading.
Falling Leaves Throw
Diamond patterns with intentional openwork create sophisticated blanket that showcases elegant simplicity. The falling-leaf motif brings seasonal beauty to functional home textile, while the straightforward repeat makes this meditative, rhythm-based knitting.
The generous throw dimensions create substantial coverage for couches or beds. The lace holes add visual lightness while maintaining warmth—the open structure traps air effectively. This becomes genuine heirloom piece through thoughtful construction and timeless design.
Comprehensive PDF format with step-by-step instructions and detailed chart accommodates all skill levels. The combination of simplicity and elegance makes this achievable confidence-builder for knitters transitioning into larger projects or exploring lace techniques.
Brescul Yoke Sweater
Top-down seamless construction with freeform cable yoke creates customizable sweater spanning infant through adult sizing. The neck-down approach allows try-on fitting throughout process, while completely seamless finishing eliminates bulk and hand-sewing.
Instructions include any sleeve length and body length adjustments—true customization for perfect fit. Comprehensive size range (12 months through adult 62) makes this genuinely family-wide pattern. Luxurious 100% cashmere creates exceptional softness and drape.
Detailed charts and written instructions accommodate different learning styles. The freeform cable approach encourages creative expression within structured framework, letting advanced knitters personalize while providing clear guidance for those following exactly.
Shipot Textured Knit Sweater
Intricate cable patterns and oversized proportions create sophisticated texture study inspired by Carpathian waterfall landscapes. Bottom-up circular construction with three-needle bind-off shoulders combines traditional techniques with contemporary silhouette for genuinely wearable art.
Exceptional size range (12 months through adult 62) ensures multi-generational appeal. Short-row sleeve shaping creates minimal cap without complex calculations. The merino-cashmere-silk blend provides luxurious hand and beautiful stitch definition for showcase cablework.
Precise gauge requirements (30 stitches per 10cm) demand careful swatching but reward accuracy with professional drape and fit. The blend of comfort and sophistication makes this investment knitting—substantial project that delivers polished, lasting results.
Ardor Throw
Thick-and-thin cotton yarn creates organic texture variations in simple lace structure. The open, airy stitch pattern produces lightweight throw that’s cool to touch yet surprisingly warm—perfect for summer knitting and year-round use.
Finished at 58″ × 58″, this creates generous coverage while remaining portable during construction. The bulky yarn weight makes progress visible and satisfying. Designed for wearing as much as displaying, it brings practical luxury to daily life.
Intermediate pattern provides both written and charted instructions for flexible working. The straightforward lace repeat (2.6 stitches per inch) creates meditative knitting rhythm while the yarn’s character adds visual complexity without technical difficulty.
Woodsmoke Sweater
Textured stitch pattern and relaxed fit create cozy essential built for actual living. The rustic aesthetic pairs effortlessly with casual wardrobe staples, while customizable sizing and sleeve options ensure precise fit preferences.
Timeless design inspired by fireside evenings translates to genuine everyday wear. The textured pattern adds visual interest without fussiness, while the relaxed proportions accommodate comfortable layering. Works beautifully with jeans or leggings for versatile styling.
Intermediate pattern provides detailed instructions with customization options. The straightforward approach to sizing adjustments empowers knitters to create perfectly proportioned garment rather than compromising fit to match standard measurements—resulting in truly wearable handknit.
