Modern Classic Sweaters: 5 Free Knitting Patterns

What makes a classic sweater? I think it has everything to do with the style and versatility. A cardigan or pullover with a touch of ribbing, cables, or color can all fit the bill.

Being able to wear the sweater in lots of different ways—to dress it up or down—is key. A classic is something that stands the test of time, isn't particularly trendy, and goes with a lot of different looks. 

Here are five ideas for you. I think each of these is a classic in its own way.

Fountain Sweater from the Berroco Design Team

The lace detail on the sides bumps this classic shape up a notch. Fountain is a great transition sweater, perfect for fall through spring.

Wear Fountain with a long skirt or with jeans; it's perfectly at home in any outfit. I love this for a first sweater project. It's an easy knitting pattern with a little challenge in the lace sections. Knit this in easy-care Berroco Vintage!

Sisterhood of the Sweater by Katie Rempe

Cardigans are always classic, and this sweater looks great on everyone! Just look at the photo below, and you'll see how eight women of different ages and body types each rock this sweater in their own way.

We think Sisterhood of the Sweater would be a great knit-along for your knitting group. The color blocking is wonderful, and the yarn—Kenzie by HiKoo—offers so many great choices. Cables add beautiful texture, too. Sisterhood looks great with any outfit!

Stairstep Tunic by Universal Design Team

The tunic silhouette is a modern classic; its length covers up your behind and pairs beautifully with skinny jeans or leggings. It's a look that's universally flattering.

Many knitters shy away from tunic styles because of the amount of knitting. But the Stairstep is knit in a chunky yarn, which makes it a quick knit. It's the perfect fall and winter sweater—warm, cozy, and fashionable!

This sweater pattern fits many bodies; it's written for bust sizes 33¾" through 49¾". Knit it in Universal Yarn Deluxe Chunky or Berroco Vintage Chunky.

Hazy Sweater by the Universal Design Team

Cables are the epitome of classic, and this pullover features beautiful cable work set off with another knitwear classic, seed stitch. Just a gorgeous combo!

The Hazy Sweater is a real wardrobe builder, and it's a great project for the adventurous beginner to the advanced knitter and is a perfect first cable sweater project. The pattern comes with a matching hat—bonus!

Knit it in Universal Uptown Worsted Mist or Malabrigo Rios.

Bethany Cardigan by Universal Yarn

This pattern reminds me of the quintessential cardigan in the sweater sets of the 50s. It's a step up, though, with its lacy lines.

Bethany is springtime perfection knit in one of our most popular yarns, Bamboo Pop. You'll love this cotton/bamboo blend. The lace pattern is simple to work and easily memorized. What a cute sweater!

I hope you'll knit one of these classic patterns. They're all free downloads, so add them to your collection now!

Cheers,