The Luxe Layer pattern from Oct/Nov Sew News has got us all in the mood for cardigans! From structured sweater knit cardis to lightweight cardigans for layering, cardigans are the perfect transition piece. They’re great in cooler weather, obviously, but they’re also perfect for extending wear for your favorite summer tanks and dresses. Below, you’ll find our favorite cardigan patterns. (And hint, hint, you can grab the Luxe Layer pattern for free until the end of the month!)
Amanda’s Picks
Driftless Cardigan by Grainline Studio
I’ve made four Driftless Cardigans….and I want to make more. Think oversized (with a drop shoulder), boxy and super cozy. I love the pockets on this design (though I’ve been known to skip them to save on fabric – an easy hack!). I love the option to button it – I’ve made two version with metallic snaps, for an edgier option.
Blackwood Cardigan By Helen’s Closet
For a bit more fitted look, I’m keen to try to the Blackwood Cardigan. I love the fitted sleeves, the two different lengths – one mid-thigh and one more cropped – and, of course, the pockets. Such a great basic, plus there’s a hack for a deep split hem that is chic and dramatic.
Laurelhurst by Straight Stitch Designs
I have a storebought cardigan like this that gets a ton of wear, and I seriously need to remake it. This design is a perfect blend of both worlds – feminine drapey goodness but with a cropped length that’s a good fit for my lifestyle. And it’s a style that looks good on every body – perfect for everyday but the possibilities in a metallic knit?!?!
Kate’s Picks
I have to confess, I’ve never really thought about sewing a cardigan. If I were going to make a cardigan, I’m more likely to crochet it (and honestly I’m not all that likely to do that, either!).
Looking at cardigan options, the ones I’m most drawn to are the drapey types that are likely to be sewn in jersey or something with a similar drape, like BurdaStyle 01/2013 #129or 05/2016 #131.
For a more versatile, timeless piece, I’d choose a sweater knit and a pattern like McCall 6802. It would be a great first project for sweater knit fabric, as it has dolman sleeves, eliminating the need to set in sleeves. Sewn up in a neutral color, it would make a great transition piece for the autumn or spring.
Jill’s Picks
Not sure if I’m going to sew any this fall but the Drop Pocket Cardigan from Jalie looks nice.
The Heidi Hooded Cardi from Style Arc looks really fun.
The Esme Maxi Cardi from Named is probably the one I’d most like to do.
Have any favorite cardigan patterns that aren’t on this list? What else is on your must-sew list for fall and winter?
I love your pics too! I have the Driftless and Jalie but I haven’t sewn them up yet! I keep meaning to and for sure they are next on my roster. I had a shortage of long sleeve knits for winter but I know I’m going to have a shortage of longer cardigans for spring so I’m thinking I’ll do that in Jan, Feb and March
Another cardigan pattern I have that I couldn’t resist was the Megan Longline by Tessuti – I just love the look of this one too 
Oh, that’s a new pattern to me – I love the length (dramatic but not quite a maxi!). I love cardigans for transitioning between seasons!