Cardigan Knitting Patterns

Vintage Retro Ocean Blues Cardigan with 3D Textured Stitch - Free Pattern

Anonymous June 30, 2026
Vintage Retro Ocean Blues Cardigan - Free Knitting Pattern

Vintage Retro Ocean Blues Cardigan with 3D Textured Stitch - Free Pattern

Dive into the past with this Vintage Retro Ocean Blues Cardigan, featuring a stunning 3D textured stitch that mimics the gentle waves of the sea. Perfect for those who love a splash of nostalgia with a modern twist.

Materials Needed

  • DK weight yarn in various shades of cool ocean blues (approximately 1200 yards total)
  • US 6 (4.0 mm) knitting needles
  • Stitch markers
  • Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Step-by-Step Instructions

Back

  1. Cast on 110 stitches using your US 6 knitting needles.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing (knit 2, purl 2) for 2 inches.
  3. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every row) and work for 10 inches.
  4. Begin the 3D wave pattern:
    • Row 1 (Right Side): *K4, P2, repeat from * to end.
    • Row 2 (Wrong Side): *P4, K2, repeat from * to end.
    • Row 3: Repeat Row 1.
    • Row 4: Repeat Row 2.
    • Row 5: *K2, (K1, P1, K1) in next stitch, K2, P2, repeat from * to end.
    • Row 6: *P2, K3, P2, K2, repeat from * to end.
  5. Repeat Rows 1-6 until the piece measures 24 inches from the cast-on edge.
  6. Bind off all stitches.

Front (Make 2)

  1. Cast on 55 stitches.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
  3. Switch to stockinette stitch and work for 10 inches.
  4. Begin the 3D wave pattern as for the back.
  5. Continue in pattern until the piece measures 22 inches from the cast-on edge.
  6. Shape the neckline: Bind off 5 stitches at the neck edge every other row, 3 times.
  7. Continue in pattern until the piece measures 24 inches.
  8. Bind off remaining stitches.

Sleeves (Make 2)

  1. Cast on 50 stitches.
  2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
  3. Switch to stockinette stitch and increase 1 stitch at each end every 8th row until you have 70 stitches.
  4. Begin the 3D wave pattern as for the back.
  5. Continue in pattern until the sleeve measures 18 inches.
  6. Bind off all stitches.

Finishing

  1. Block all pieces to measurements to ensure the right fit.
  2. Sew shoulder seams together.
  3. Set in the sleeves by aligning them with the armholes and sewing securely.
  4. Sew side seams and sleeve seams to complete the cardigan.
  5. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle for a clean finish.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted Vintage Retro Ocean Blues Cardigan, perfect for adding a touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe!


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