Cardigan Knitting Patterns
Whispering Willow Julia Cardi Free Pattern
Anonymous
•
July 18, 2026
Introduction
Welcome to the Whispering Willow Julia Cardi knitting pattern! This cozy cardigan embraces the gentle elegance of nature with its intricate leaf motifs and flowing silhouette. Perfect for any season, this piece will become a staple in your wardrobe. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, this detailed guide will help you create a beautiful garment that showcases your skills and adds a touch of nature-inspired charm to your outfit.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: DK weight, 100% merino wool
- Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) knitting needles
- Gauge: 22 stitches and 30 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Back Panel
- Begin by casting on 110 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method for a flexible edge.
- Work in 2x2 ribbing (knit 2, purl 2) for 2 inches.
- Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every row) and continue knitting until the piece measures 20 inches from the cast-on edge.
- To shape the armholes, decrease 5 stitches evenly across the next row. You can do this by knitting 22 stitches, then knitting 2 together, knitting 1, yarn over, knitting 1, then knitting 2 together, and finally knitting to the end of the row.
- Continue in stockinette stitch until the piece measures 24 inches from the cast-on edge.
- Bind off all stitches loosely to maintain elasticity.
Front Panels
- For each front panel, cast on 55 stitches.
- Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
- Switch to stockinette stitch and incorporate the leaf motif pattern as follows:
- Row 1 (Right Side): Knit 5, *k2tog, yo, k1, yo, ssk, knit 5; repeat from * to end.
- Row 2 (Wrong Side): Purl all stitches.
- Repeat these two rows until the piece measures 18 inches.
- To shape the neck, bind off 5 stitches at the beginning of the next right side row.
- Then, decrease 1 stitch at the neck edge every right side row for a total of 5 times.
- Continue until the front panel measures 24 inches.
- Bind off all stitches loosely.
Sleeves
- Cast on 50 stitches for each sleeve.
- Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
- Switch to stockinette stitch and increase 1 stitch at each end every 8th row until you have 70 stitches.
- Work evenly until the sleeve measures 18 inches.
- Bind off all stitches loosely.
Assembly
- Sew the shoulder seams of the back and front panels together.
- Set in the sleeves by aligning them with the armholes and sewing them in place.
- Sew the side seams and sleeve seams together to complete the body of the cardigan.
- Pick up and knit 120 stitches along each front edge and neck.
- Work in 2x2 ribbing for 1 inch around the edges.
- Bind off all stitches loosely to finish the edges.
Congratulations! You have completed your Whispering Willow Julia Cardi. Enjoy wearing your beautiful, handmade cardigan that reflects the beauty of nature!
