The Whispering Willow Cardigan Free Pattern – Knit a Draping Cocoon with Leaf Lace Panels
The Whispering Willow Cardigan: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Draping Cocoon with Leaf Lace
Wrap yourself in the softest embrace of nature with this flowing, open-front cardigan that features delicate leaf lace panels cascading down the sleeves. Knitted in a dreamy sage green, it drapes beautifully and adds an organic, artistic touch to any outfit. This free pattern is perfect for intermediate knitters looking for a rewarding project that results in a truly stunning, wearable piece of art.
This cardigan is knit in one piece from the top down, starting with the back yoke and working outward to create a seamless cocoon shape. The leaf lace pattern is charted below and repeated along the sleeves. The result is a cozy, unstructured garment that feels like a gentle hug—airy, botanical, and effortlessly chic.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth knitting experience:
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in sage green (approx. 1200–1400 yards for sizes S–2XL). Choose a soft, drapey yarn for the best flow.
- Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) circular needles, 32-inch or longer, plus US 8 double-pointed needles for sleeves.
- Notions: Stitch markers, stitch holders or waste yarn, tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and blocking mats with pins.
- Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Always check your gauge to ensure the correct fit.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This cardigan is knit in one piece from the top down, starting with the back yoke and working outward to create a seamless cocoon shape. The leaf lace pattern is charted below and repeated along the sleeves. Follow these detailed instructions carefully, and you'll have a beautiful, drapey cardigan in no time.
Abbreviations
- k = knit
- p = purl
- yo = yarn over
- k2tog = knit two together
- ssk = slip, slip, knit (decrease)
- pm = place marker
- sm = slip marker
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side
Leaf Lace Panel (worked over 12 stitches)
This delicate lace pattern creates the cascading leaf effect on the sleeves. Repeat rows 1–12 for the pattern.
- Row 1 (RS): k2, yo, ssk, k4, k2tog, yo, k2
- Row 2 and all WS rows: purl all stitches
- Row 3: k3, yo, ssk, k2, k2tog, yo, k3
- Row 5: k4, yo, ssk, k2tog, yo, k4
- Row 7: k3, k2tog, yo, k2, yo, ssk, k3
- Row 9: k2, k2tog, yo, k4, yo, ssk, k2
- Row 11: k1, k2tog, yo, k6, yo, ssk, k1
- Row 12: purl
Back Yoke
Cast on 90 stitches. Work in garter stitch (knit every row) for 6 rows. Then begin stockinette stitch (knit RS, purl WS) for 4 inches, ending with a WS row.
Shape Shoulders
Next RS row: k20, pm, k50, pm, k20. Continue in stockinette, increasing 1 stitch before the first marker and after the second marker every 4th row, 4 times total. You now have 98 stitches. Work even until the yoke measures 8 inches from the cast-on edge.
Divide for Sleeves
Next RS row: k25 (left front), place the next 48 stitches on a holder (left sleeve), k50 (back), place the next 48 stitches on a holder (right sleeve), k25 (right front). You now have 100 stitches for the body.
Body
Work in stockinette stitch, increasing 1 stitch at each edge every 6 rows, 5 times total (110 stitches). Continue until the body measures 12 inches from the underarm. Then work in garter stitch for 8 rows. Bind off loosely to maintain the drape.
Sleeves
Pick up the 48 held stitches plus 4 stitches from the underarm (52 stitches). Place a marker at the underarm. Work in stockinette for 2 inches, then decrease 1 stitch on each side of the marker every 6 rows until 40 stitches remain. Work even until the sleeve measures 14 inches from the underarm.
Then work the Leaf Lace Panel across the center 12 stitches, keeping the remaining stitches in stockinette. Repeat the 12-row lace pattern 3 times. Then work in garter stitch for 6 rows. Bind off loosely.
Finishing
Weave in all ends with a tapestry needle. Block the cardigan to open up the lace and achieve the beautiful drape—this step is essential for the leaf pattern to shine. Optionally, add a simple crochet chain tie at the waist for a cinched look, or leave it open for a relaxed, flowing silhouette.
This cardigan is a joy to knit and even more delightful to wear. The combination of smooth stockinette and delicate leaf lace creates a piece that feels both grounded and ethereal. Whether you're curling up with a book or stepping out for a stroll, the Whispering Willow Cardigan will become a beloved staple in your handmade wardrobe.
