Knitting

Free Patterns, Tutorials and Project Ideas

Giveaway: You Can Knit That

by

you can knit that review
The winner is Karey.

I don’t know why I didn’t give this one away sooner, but You Can Knit That by Amy Herzog is a book I would want if I were starting out with sweater and garment knitting, and there are definitely patterns in it that I would still knit.

But this is designed to be a learning book, with lessons and patterns that build off each other, so it’s perfect for people who haven’t knit sweaters, vests and tops before.

Even better, it includes a whole bunch of sizes for each of the patterns, so it’s very likely you can knit straight from these patterns, no modifications required.

There’s also lots of great information that will help build your confidence before you even pick up your needles and as you knit to ensure that you’re making something you will be proud of, that you’ll be happy to wear and that fits.

If you’d like a chance to win this book, leave a comment on this post by the end of the day Sunday, March 5. I’d love to know if you have any experience knitting garments, and what your dream sweater that you wish you could knit would be. I’ve made a few of the dream designs in my head, including a circular yoke sweater out of Icelandic wool, a great sweater worked in self-striping Noro and a simple ribbed vest. But there are always more great sweaters to try, right?

Thanks for visiting, commenting and sharing, and good luck!

Comments

  2. I have only knit baby sweaters. I’d really love to knit a vintage 1940s style sweater in a deep purple color.

  5. I’d love this. I’ve just restarted knitting sweaters again after a 20 year hiatus and my skills are pretty rusty.

  6. I have some experience, but it’s minimal. I would love to learn more, though, to build my confidence up.

  7. This looks like a great book to learn knitting. I would love to learn how to knit from it. I think I would try a vest first or scarf.

  8. I’ve knit a few sweaters but have never been very happy with the fit. I think this book would be a great resource to learn about fit and styles that are best for my figure. (BTW, LOVE your Noro striped sweater..so fun!)

  9. would love to try knitting a sweater. I have always wanted a fitted sweater and have just never had enough nerve to try. I have only done hats, mittens, and household items. thanks for the chance at this great giveaway!

  10. I once knit a dress for my sister to wear to her daughter’s baptism. It was knit with ribbon yarn. I would love to knit Irish sweaters with all the cabling. I would love to knit using two different yarns on the same row.

  12. I would like this book for the variety of sizes. I really enjoy Aran patterns. Thank you for the giveaway chance.

  13. I. Would love to win this book. I have knitted a few sweaters and vest in the past but have never been happy with the fit. I am large in some places and then normal in others. I think this book might be the answer to help with my problem fit.

  14. I knitted a sweater for my daughter when she was a baby , she just turned forty, I would love to try it again.

  15. I’ve got a WIP sweater, almost done, that’s been gathering dust for 3 years as I churn out hats, scarves, household items, and other smaller, less intimidating projects. I have looked through this book & think ti would be very helpful! My goal is to finish the sweater I have on the needles, and then make a big, cushy cardigan.

    Thanks for

  16. This Book would be very helpful for me. I stopped making sweaters because they would never fit right. It also would be great to pass it down to my granddaughters who are now being taught how to knit by this grannie.

  17. I am too chicken to try sweaters, and I would dearly love to fix that. Since I don’t have anyone near me to help me out, maybe this book could do the job.

  18. Would love this. Consider myself as a beginner-intermediate knitter. This book would be totally inspirational.

  21. I love knitting and have two sweaters on my needles. One is winter Icelandic Fair Isle and the other is a summer cotton with a lace yoke. Both have been knit up to the scary part and now I need the confidence to keep going and finish. I think this book would be a great help! Thank you for your giveaway.

  22. I love to knit all types of garments, including sweaters. I currently have two on my needles: a winter one of Icelandic wool (with Fair Isle yoke) and a summer cotton with a lace yoke. I have knit them both up to the scary part and need the confidence to continue. This book would be a great help. Thank you for the giveaway!

  24. I’ve always enjoyed knitting small garments such as baby items ,and socks . I did tackle two sweaters for me in bulky weight yarn over this winter. Love them. Now I’d love to make some tanks or T shirt type tops.

  26. I have made lots of baby clothes, but I’m not brave enough to try a full-sized adult sweater yet. Maybe this book would give me enough courage to try.

  29. I knit lots of hats, scarves, but I shy away from sweaters – afraid it won’t fit
    I would love to knit a nice cozy pullover in alpaca

  31. I knit my first sweater shortly after learning to knit, it was a learning experience with mistakes but I was very happy with the way it turned out.

  34. I’ve started a sweater but never finished. The fit wasn’t right. I don’t even know where the pattern is anymore. Not sure what my dream sweater is, I’d just like to knit one that fit well.

  35. I have not done any knitting yet but I would love to learn. Any sweater would be my dream to knit.

  36. Want to expand my knitting skills to include sweaters. Have made baby sweaters, but i’m ready for the challenge of an adult sweater.

  37. I started knitting at age 10, and at various points have knitted sweaters, hats, etc. for friends, although not so many for myself! Then knitting became the canary in the coal mine–whenever work created pressure, my knitting (which I needed most at those times!) disappeared. Now I’m in my 60s, and have been trying the theory that knitting is like riding a bicycle–you can pick it up again easily…WRONG! I’m having to practice with scarves and hats–even shawls with significant lace patterns stump me (despite asking for help in 3 states and 2 countries!). I have a husband who loves to wear my sweaters no matter how hot it is! At any rate, I’d love to rehabilitate myself and my knitting, and this book might just do the trick!

  38. I have only knitted scarfs, because everything else looked so difficult. I would love this book.

  41. I have not progressed beyond scarves and hats but love all of the knitted sweaters I see around.This book seems a good place to start. Thanks for offering.

  44. I’ve been wanting to knit my first sweater for awhile now, but other projects keep me from pulling the trigger!

  45. I would love this book. I have been knitting fir only a year and a half now. The only garment type of knitting I have done…. is right now I am learning to knit slippers. I am still learning but hope to get into making sweaters and vests. Thanks for the chance.

  46. I am currently making a sweater from her sweater modification for a custom fit class from Craftsy. She is one of my favorite designers. I’m hoping this current project will be my dream sweater now that I know the basics of modifying for a better fit.

  48. I haven’t made any sweaters in a few years and would love to try some again. Thank you for the giveaway.

  49. Love to have this book and feel like I could accomplish something I’ve started. Always wanted to make like a sweater in different colors but not brave enough!

Have you read?

15 Chunky Knit Cardigan Patterns for Cosy, Quick-to-Knit Layers

There is something deeply satisfying about knitting a chunky cardigan. The stitches are large enough to see your progress, the fabric feels wonderfully substantial, and you can often finish the entire garment far more quickly than you could with a lightweight sweater.

Chunky knit cardigan patterns are also incredibly versatile. You can knit a cropped cardigan to wear over dresses, an oversized slouchy style for weekends at home, a long cardigan coat for winter, or a classic button-front design that will stay in your wardrobe for years.

This roundup includes a mixture of free and paid chunky cardigan knitting patterns, with options for beginners through to more experienced knitters. You will find simple garter-stitch cardigans, relaxed oversized designs, textured jackets, statement collars and size-inclusive patterns.

Before choosing your pattern, check whether it calls for bulky, chunky or super-bulky yarn. Yarn-weight terminology can vary between countries and brands, so always compare the recommended gauge rather than relying on the yarn name alone.

Moonbow Slouchy Chunky Knit Cardigan

The Moonbow Slouchy Chunky Knit Cardigan from Mama in a Stitch has the relaxed, oversized shape many knitters picture when they think of a cosy handmade cardigan.

It features generous sleeves, useful pockets and a comfortably draped fit. The construction involves minimal shaping, making it an approachable choice for knitters who have made scarves and blankets but are ready to try their first wearable project.

This is a free pattern and a lovely choice for casual layering over jeans, leggings or a simple dress.

Daybreak Chunky Cardigan

The free Daybreak Chunky Cardigan pattern from Knitting with Chopsticks is available in sizes XS through 5XL.

The cardigan has an easy-to-wear shape and is knitted in a thick, softly textured yarn that creates a warm yet slightly fluffy fabric. The original sample uses a marled yarn, but the simple silhouette would also look beautiful in a solid neutral, autumnal rust or rich jewel tone.

This is a particularly useful option for knitters looking for a size-inclusive chunky cardigan pattern.

Novice Cardigan – Chunky Edition

The Novice Cardigan – Chunky Edition by PetiteKnit is designed as an accessible introduction to top-down cardigan knitting.

The cardigan begins at the neck and is worked downwards, allowing you to try it on as you knit. It has a classic button-front design, a relaxed fit and approximately 15 cm or 6 inches of positive ease.

The pattern is available in sizes XS through 5XL and uses bulky yarn held together with a strand of lace-weight yarn to create a soft, fluffy finish.

Easy Peasy Chunky Cardigan

The Easy Peasy Chunky Cardigan by Katrine Hannibal is an oversized, cropped cardigan designed with beginners in mind.

The instructions avoid abbreviations, which can be helpful for newer knitters who find heavily abbreviated patterns difficult to follow. It is worked using large 10 mm needles and two yarns held together, producing a light but generously textured fabric.

With around 15 to 20 cm of positive ease, this cardigan has a modern, relaxed silhouette that works well over high-waisted trousers, skirts and dresses.

Reading Room Cardigan

The free Reading Room Cardigan from Lion Brand is made with super-bulky yarn and rated as an easy pattern.

It combines garter stitch and stocking stitch, giving newer knitters an opportunity to practise basic techniques without complicated shaping or stitch patterns.

The long, relaxed silhouette makes this cardigan feel almost like a wearable blanket. It is available in three grouped sizes: S/M, L/1X and 2X/3X.

Colonia Cropped Cardi

For knitters who prefer shorter layers, the free Colonia Cropped Cardi from Lion Brand is an easy bulky-yarn cardigan with a clean, contemporary shape.

The finished length ranges from approximately 43 to 48.5 cm, depending on the size selected. The front edges overlap slightly, giving the cardigan a comfortable wrap-like appearance.

Its simple stocking-stitch fabric also makes this a good pattern for showing off hand-dyed, marled or subtly variegated chunky yarn.

Level 1 Knit Cardigan

The Level 1 Knit Cardigan from Lion Brand is specifically rated for beginner knitters.

It uses bulky or chunky-weight yarn and has straightforward construction intended for someone attempting an early garment project.

A simple cardigan like this can also be a useful blank canvas. Experienced knitters could personalise it with stripes, contrasting cuffs, oversized buttons, duplicate-stitch motifs or embroidered details.

Saturday Cardigan

The free Saturday Cardigan from Lion Brand is a bulky-weight design with a polished but comfortable shape.

It has a finished bust measurement ranging from approximately 42 to 62 inches and is rated for intermediate knitters. Its relatively simple fabric lets the structure and silhouette do most of the work.

This would make a practical everyday cardigan in charcoal, oatmeal or navy, but it could be especially striking in mustard, berry or forest green.

Somerdale Cardigan

The free Somerdale Cardigan from Lion Brand is an easy-level cardigan made with bulky yarn.

This is another approachable option for knitters who want the satisfaction of creating a wearable garment without committing to intricate cables, lace or colourwork.

Choose a softly spun yarn for a relaxed, cosy finish or a more structured wool blend if you would like the cardigan to hold its shape.

Niall Hooded Cardigan

The free Niall Cardigan from Berroco is a bulky, textured cardigan finished with a generous hood.

The hood gives the design a practical jacket-like feel, making it suitable for cool autumn afternoons, school runs or relaxed weekends outdoors.

The textured stitch pattern adds interest without overwhelming the classic shape. It would look especially lovely knitted in earthy brown, moss green, deep burgundy or natural cream.

Bingen Chunky Cardigan

The Bingen Cardigan from Berroco is a substantial wrap-style cardigan designed for serious warmth.

It uses large 9 mm and 10 mm needles, with a gauge of just 10 stitches and 14 rows per 10 cm. That large gauge means the fabric grows quickly, although the finished garment still involves a considerable amount of knitting.

This is the kind of cardigan you can pull around yourself on cold mornings when a lightweight knit simply will not do.

Vik Colourwork Cardigan

The free Vik Cardigan from Berroco combines chunky colourwork with a tall fold-back collar.

Its fitted shape gives it a more structured appearance than many oversized chunky cardigans, while the colourwork provides plenty of visual impact.

The cardigan is finished with five buttons and would suit knitters who are comfortable following colourwork charts or written colour instructions. Try a neutral base with a high-contrast geometric motif for a classic winter look.

Quonset Chunky Cardigan

The free Quonset Chunky Cardigan from Berroco uses an unusual construction that creates a flowing, open-front garment.

This is a good choice for knitters who enjoy patterns that are constructed differently from a traditional seamed or raglan cardigan. It is knitted on 6.5 mm circular needles and includes a small amount of crochet finishing at the back neckline.

The draped shape works beautifully as a transitional layer for autumn and spring.

Moshup Cardigan

The free Moshup Cardigan from Berroco is another cleverly constructed chunky cardigan with a distinctive swirling shape.

Rather than relying on a standard cardigan structure, the pattern creates movement through its construction, resulting in a garment that feels both cosy and sculptural.

This pattern would appeal to adventurous knitters who want something more interesting than a basic rectangular or drop-shoulder cardigan.

Chunky Knit Cardigan by Mila Frolova

The paid Chunky Knit Cardigan pattern by Mila Frolova creates a relaxed oversized cardigan that can be worn with jeans, dresses or more formal outfits.

The pattern includes video tutorials covering some of the more challenging sections, including the sleeves, seaming and edging. It is described as beginner-friendly to intermediate and is available in three grouped size ranges: XS–S, M and L–XL.

Its simple silhouette would also make a beautiful bridal or evening layer when knitted in cream, ivory or a softly brushed yarn.

Tips for Knitting a Chunky Cardigan

Chunky cardigans can knit up quickly, but the thicker yarn makes gauge especially important. A difference of just one stitch across 10 cm can significantly change the finished bust measurement.

Always knit and wash a gauge swatch before beginning. Some chunky yarns bloom, relax or grow considerably after washing, particularly yarns containing alpaca, superwash wool or loosely spun fibres.

You should also consider the finished weight of the cardigan. A long garment made entirely from dense super-bulky yarn can become heavy. Lighter blown yarns, chainette yarns and wool blends can provide thickness without creating as much weight.

When selecting a size, look at the pattern’s recommended positive ease rather than automatically choosing your usual clothing size. An oversized cardigan may be designed to measure anywhere from 10 to 30 cm larger than your actual bust.

What Is the Difference Between Chunky and Bulky Yarn?

In many American patterns, chunky yarn is classified as Craft Yarn Council weight 5, which is usually called bulky yarn. In Australia and the United Kingdom, you may also see similar yarn described as chunky, 12 ply or occasionally 14 ply, although ply labels are not always reliable indicators of thickness.

Super-bulky yarn is thicker again and may be labelled super chunky in the United Kingdom or approximately 14 ply and above in Australia.

The safest approach is to compare:

  • The pattern gauge
  • Recommended needle size
  • Metres per 100 grams
  • Fibre content and construction
  • The appearance and drape of your washed swatch

Substituting by gauge will generally produce a more reliable result than substituting by the name printed on the yarn label.

Which Chunky Cardigan Will You Knit?

A chunky cardigan is one of those projects that feels both practical and indulgent. You get the pleasure of working with thick, tactile yarn and the reward of a warm handmade layer you can wear throughout the cooler months.

Beginners may enjoy the Moonbow, Daybreak, Easy Peasy or Reading Room cardigans, while experienced knitters can explore the unusual construction of Moshup, the colourwork of Vik or the dramatic warmth of Bingen.

Whether you choose a cropped cardigan, a hooded jacket or an oversized wearable blanket, these patterns offer plenty of reasons to cast on something cosy.