Cardigan Knitting Patterns
Vintage Retro Floral Cardigan - Free Pattern
Anonymous
•
June 30, 2026
Vintage Retro Floral Cardigan - Free Pattern
Introduction
Step back in time with this stunning Vintage Retro Floral Cardigan, featuring a striking black and white contrast and intricate floral motifs. Perfect for adding a touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe, this pattern is both modern and timeless. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or a beginner, this cardigan is the perfect project to showcase your skills and creativity.
Materials Needed
- DK weight yarn in black and white
- US 6 (4mm) knitting needles
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Stitch markers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Back Panel
- Cast on 110 stitches in black yarn.
- Work in 1x1 rib for the first 6 rows:
- Row 1: Knit 1, Purl 1 across the row.
- Row 2: Purl 1, Knit 1 across the row.
- Repeat these two rows until you have completed 6 rows.
- Change to white yarn.
- Row 7: Knit across all stitches.
- Row 8: Purl across all stitches.
- Continue in stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row) until the piece measures 15 inches from the cast-on edge.
- Shape shoulders by binding off 5 stitches at the beginning of the next 6 rows.
- Bind off remaining stitches.
Front Panels (Make 2)
- Cast on 55 stitches in black yarn.
- Work in 1x1 rib for the first 6 rows:
- Row 1: Knit 1, Purl 1 across the row.
- Row 2: Purl 1, Knit 1 across the row.
- Repeat these two rows until you have completed 6 rows.
- Change to white yarn.
- Row 7: Knit across all stitches.
- Row 8: Purl across all stitches.
- Continue in stockinette stitch until the piece measures 12 inches.
- Begin the floral motif: Follow the chart for the floral pattern using the intarsia technique.
- Continue until the piece measures 15 inches.
- Shape shoulders by binding off 5 stitches at the beginning of the next 3 rows.
- Bind off remaining stitches.
Sleeves (Make 2)
- Cast on 50 stitches in black yarn.
- Work in 1x1 rib for the first 6 rows:
- Row 1: Knit 1, Purl 1 across the row.
- Row 2: Purl 1, Knit 1 across the row.
- Repeat these two rows until you have completed 6 rows.
- Change to white yarn.
- Row 7: Knit across all stitches.
- Row 8: Purl across all stitches.
- Increase 1 stitch at each end of every 8th row until there are 70 stitches.
- Continue in stockinette stitch until the sleeve measures 18 inches.
- Bind off all stitches.
Assembly
- Block all pieces to measurements.
- Sew shoulder seams together.
- Set in sleeves and sew side seams.
- Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle.
- Add buttons if desired for a classic finish.
Floral Motif Chart
Use a simple grid chart to depict the floral motif, alternating black and white sections to create the floral design. This will add a unique touch to your cardigan, making it truly one-of-a-kind.
Also Check Out: We think you'd love this beautiful pattern on our sister site: Cozy Cable Knit Sweater