Meadow Breeze Oversized Cardigan Free Pattern – Knit a Breezy Summer Layer

Introducing the Meadow Breeze Oversized Cardigan

Imagine a cardigan that feels like a gentle summer breeze—light, airy, and effortlessly stylish. The Meadow Breeze Oversized Cardigan is exactly that. This open-front knit features a delicate lace stitch that mimics the gentle sway of meadow grasses, creating a subtle, textured fabric with tiny eyelet holes scattered like wildflowers. Knitted in a soft, muted sage green DK-weight cotton, this relaxed, boxy layer falls just below the hips, making it the perfect companion for cool summer evenings or breezy coastal mornings.

Whether you're a seasoned knitter looking for a mindful project or a confident beginner ready to tackle lace, this free pattern offers a rewarding experience. The oversized silhouette is forgiving, the lace repeat is simple to memorize, and the result is a stunning, handcrafted wardrobe staple you'll reach for all season long. Let's dive into everything you need to create your own Meadow Breeze Cardigan.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. Using the recommended materials ensures your gauge matches and your finished cardigan has the perfect drape and breathability.

Yarn

• Weight: DK weight cotton or cotton-blend yarn (e.g., Lion Brand Comfy Cotton Blend, Knit Picks CotLin, or similar)
• Amount: Approximately 900–1100 yards (depending on your chosen size). For size S, plan for ~900 yards; M ~950; L ~1000; XL ~1100.
• Color: The sample shown is a soft sage green, but any light, breathable color works beautifully.

Needles & Notions

• Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) circular knitting needles, 32 inches or longer (for the body and picking up stitches). You may also want a spare set of the same size for sleeves if you prefer magic loop.
• Stitch markers (at least 4, for sleeve increases)
• Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends and seaming)
• Scissors
• Blocking mats and pins (for finishing)

Gauge

20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in Lace Meadow pattern (after blocking). Always knit a swatch first! Block your swatch exactly as you will block the finished cardigan to ensure accurate measurements.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is worked flat in panels and seamed together. The lace pattern is a simple 4-row repeat that creates a beautiful, airy fabric. Follow along carefully, and you'll have a gorgeous cardigan in no time.

Sizes & Finished Measurements

This pattern is written for sizes S (M, L, XL). The finished chest circumference is 40 (44, 48, 52) inches. The cardigan is designed to be worn with 4–6 inches of positive ease for that relaxed, oversized look.

Stitch Pattern: Lace Meadow (Multiple of 10 + 0)

Worked over a multiple of 10 stitches. Here's the 4-row repeat:

• Row 1 (RS): *K2tog, yo, k1, yo, ssk, k3; repeat from * to end.
• Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.
• Row 3: *K1, yo, ssk, k2tog, yo, k2; repeat from * to end.
• Row 4: Purl all stitches.

Repeat Rows 1–4 for the pattern. Note: The stitch count stays consistent throughout the repeat.

Back Panel

1. Cast on: Cast on 100 (110, 120, 130) stitches using your preferred method (long-tail is recommended for a stretchy edge).
2. Work pattern: Begin the Lace Meadow pattern, starting with Row 1 (RS). Work even in pattern until the piece measures 18 (19, 20, 21) inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.
3. Bind off: Bind off all stitches loosely (use a needle one size up if needed to keep the edge stretchy). Cut yarn, leaving a tail for seaming.

Left Front Panel

1. Cast on: Cast on 50 (55, 60, 65) stitches.
2. Work pattern: Work in Lace Meadow pattern exactly as for the back, until the piece measures 18 (19, 20, 21) inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.
3. Bind off: Bind off all stitches loosely. Cut yarn.

Right Front Panel

1. Cast on: Cast on 50 (55, 60, 65) stitches.
2. Work pattern: Work identically to the Left Front Panel.
3. Bind off: Bind off all stitches loosely. Cut yarn.

Sleeves (Make 2)

1. Cast on: Cast on 60 (65, 70, 75) stitches.
2. Work pattern with increases: Begin Lace Meadow pattern. On the next RS row (Row 1 or 3), work the pattern as established, but increase 1 stitch at each end of the row (KFB or M1L/M1R as preferred). Tip: Place a marker on each side to track your increase rows.
3. Continue increasing: Repeat these increases every 6th row until you have 80 (85, 90, 95) stitches on your needles. Note: Work the new stitches into the lace pattern as they accumulate. The pattern is forgiving—just ensure your yarn overs and decreases align as closely as possible.
4. Work even: Once you've reached the desired stitch count, continue working in pattern without increases until the sleeve measures 12 (13, 14, 15) inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.
5. Bind off: Bind off all stitches loosely. Cut yarn.

Assembly & Seaming

1. Block pieces first (recommended): Before seaming, lightly block all pieces to the finished measurements. This makes seaming easier and ensures the lace opens up beautifully.
2. Sew shoulder seams: Place the Back Panel and Front Panels with right sides together. Sew the shoulder seams, leaving approximately 6 inches open in the center for the neckline. (Measure 6 inches down from the top on each side and seam from that point outward to the armhole edge.)
3. Set in sleeves: With right sides together, pin the center of the sleeve cap to the shoulder seam. Pin the rest of the sleeve cap to the armhole opening, easing any fullness. Sew the sleeve in place.
4. Sew side and sleeve seams: With right sides together, sew from the underarm down the side of the cardigan, continuing down the sleeve seam to the cuff. Repeat for the other side.

Finishing: Front & Neckline Edging

1. Pick up stitches: With RS facing and using your circular needle, pick up and knit stitches evenly around the entire front opening and neckline. Tip: Pick up approximately 3 stitches for every 4 rows along the vertical edges, and 1 stitch for every bound-off stitch along the neckline. Aim for an even, multiple of any number—garter stitch doesn't require a specific multiple.
2. Knit garter border: Knit every row for 4 rows total (this creates 2 garter ridges). This creates a neat, rolled-free edge that complements the lace.
3. Bind off loosely: Bind off all stitches loosely to maintain stretch. Cut yarn and weave in this end.
4. Weave in all ends: Use your tapestry needle to weave in all remaining yarn tails securely on the wrong side of the fabric.

Final Blocking

This step is crucial for lace! Soak your finished cardigan in lukewarm water with a gentle wool wash for 15–20 minutes. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring). Lay flat on blocking mats, pinning the cardigan to the exact finished measurements. Pay special attention to the lace panels—gently stretch them to open up the eyelets. Allow to dry completely before unpinning.

Your Breezy Layer Awaits

Once your Meadow Breeze Cardigan is dry and unpinned, you'll have a stunning, airy layer that's perfect for throwing over a sundress, a simple tee, or a linen top. The delicate lace and relaxed fit make it a truly versatile piece. We'd love to see your finished cardigan! Share your project on social media with the hashtag #MeadowBreezeCardigan and tag us. Happy knitting!