Cardigan Knitting Patterns

The Enchanted Forest Cardigan Free Pattern

Anonymous July 03, 2026
The Enchanted Forest Cardigan Free Pattern

The Enchanted Forest Cardigan Free Pattern

Introduction

Step into a world of whimsy with the Enchanted Forest Cardigan, a delightful blend of texture and color inspired by nature's beauty. This pattern combines intricate leaf motifs with a cozy, oversized fit, making it perfect for any season. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, this cardigan will add a touch of magic to your wardrobe.

Materials Needed

  • Yarn: Worsted weight, 100% wool
  • Needles: US 8 (5mm) knitting needles
  • Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch
  • Buttons: Wooden buttons for the button band

Step-by-Step Instructions

Back Panel

  1. Cast on 90 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing (knit 2, purl 2) for 2 inches.
  3. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every row) and knit for 10 inches.
  4. Begin the leaf motif by following Chart A for 24 rows.
  5. Continue in stockinette stitch for another 6 inches.
  6. Shape the shoulders by binding off 5 stitches at the beginning of the next 4 rows.
  7. Bind off the remaining stitches. Set aside.

Front Panels (Make 2)

  1. Cast on 45 stitches for each front panel.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
  3. Switch to stockinette stitch and knit for 10 inches.
  4. Begin the leaf motif by following Chart B for 24 rows.
  5. Continue in stockinette stitch for another 6 inches.
  6. Shape the neckline by binding off 5 stitches at the neck edge every other row, for a total of 3 times.
  7. Bind off the remaining stitches. Set aside.

Sleeves (Make 2)

  1. Cast on 50 stitches.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
  3. Increase 1 stitch at each end every 8th row until you have 70 stitches.
  4. Knit until the sleeve measures 18 inches from the cast-on edge.
  5. Shape the cap by binding off 5 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows.
  6. Decrease 1 stitch at each end every other row until 30 stitches remain.
  7. Bind off the remaining stitches. Set aside.

Assembly

  1. Begin by sewing the shoulder seams of the back and front panels together.
  2. Set in the sleeves by aligning the sleeve caps with the armholes and sewing them in place.
  3. Sew the side seams from the bottom of the cardigan to the end of the sleeves.
  4. Pick up stitches along the front edges and neckline for the button band.
  5. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 1 inch along the button band.
  6. Bind off the button band stitches.
  7. Sew on the wooden buttons evenly spaced along the button band.

Your Enchanted Forest Cardigan is now complete! Enjoy wearing your cozy creation that brings a touch of nature's beauty to your everyday style.