Sweater Season Made Easy: Free Sweater Knit Pattern!

Get ready to cozy up in style this sweater season with this exclusive free easy sweater knit pattern!

Whether you’re a knitting enthusiast or just starting out, our easy-to-follow pattern is perfect for creating your own fashionable and comfortable sweaters.

Designed with comfort and style in mind, the Glacier Run pattern incorporates the latest fashion trends while ensuring a comfortable fit.

From single colors to marled fades, our pattern offers a variety of options to suit your personal style.

Not only will you be able to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a handmade sweater, but you’ll also be able to showcase your unique style and creativity.

With our detailed instructions and step-by-step guidance, knitting your own sweater has never been easier.

And the best part? This easy knit sweater pattern is absolutely free! So why wait? Start knitting your way to cozy and chic sweaters with the free sweater knit pattern today.

Benefits of Knitting Your Own Sweaters

Knitting your own sweaters offers a plethora of benefits that extend beyond simply wearing a warm garment. Firstly, knitting is a relaxing and therapeutic activity that allows you to unwind and destress. The repetitive motion of knitting has been proven to reduce anxiety and promote mindfulness.

Equally as important? Knitting your own sweaters gives you the opportunity to create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personal style. Instead of settling for mass-produced, cookie-cutter designs, you can customize every aspect of your sweater, from color choices to stitch patterns.

Lastly, knitting your own sweaters can help you create long-lasting garments. By investing in quality yarn and dedicating your time and creativity, you can create high-quality sweaters that, with proper care, can last you a lifetime!

Choosing the Right Yarn for your Easy Knit Sweater

The key to a successful sweater knitting project lies in choosing the right yarn. The type and quality of yarn you select will greatly impact the overall look and feel of your finished sweater. When choosing yarn, consider factors such as fiber content, weight, and texture. Natural fibers like wool and alpaca offer excellent warmth and durability, while synthetic fibers like acrylic and nylon may be more budget-friendly and easier to care for. I’m a giant fan of wool, both for its amazing properties and its eco-friendliness. But either avenue can be a great choice for this free easy sweater knit pattern.

I’ve knit Glacier Run 3 times, with totally different yarns each time which has greatly helped me understand how the different types hold up under the same conditions.

The 3 Glacier Runs

Glacier Run 1.0 was knit with a DK-equivalent brushed suri alpaca yarn from Blue Sky Fibers. This sweater is so warm I can only wear it in the deepest of winter. But it looks in the same condition as the day I cast off, which I love. I used 7 different colors for the paired stripes. It features the original collar.

Glacier Run 2.0 was knit with a DK-weight merino/cashmere blend by Knit Picks. While I looooooove how soft it is, this thing pills like nothing I have ever seen. By mid-day I look like I’m wearing a 10 year old sweater that’s never been groomed. I will not knit another sweater in merino/cashmere unless there’s nylon in the blend—it then holds up beautifully! (Note: I used this same yarn for a light shawl that is still in great shape!) That being said I still wear it all the time because it’s so soft and cuddly… I just don’t wear it out of the house.

Glacier Run 3.0 was knit with 2 strands of fingering weight held double—allowing me to do a marled fade with 5 different shades of hand-dyed speckled yarn from the Hedgehog Fibres. With 10% nylon, this sock yarn is bound to hold up for ages with minimal pilling—though it is likely to stretch some with time and weight. Holding 2 strands double is the equivalent to knitting with a DK weight yarn, however, it creates a denser fabric—which I’m quite looking forward to in the coming cold months. The bright yet subtle colors of this Potluck Fade Set from Hedgehog make me so happy. This version may just be my favorite yet!

What does this mean for creating your own version of this free easy knit sweater? That it’s a phenomenal blank canvas to play with color, fiber, and texture. So have fun. Go wild! (And please send me a picture!)

Psst. Did you know that you can recycle your leftover or unwanted bits of yarn with Hedgehog Fibres and receive up to 30% off your next purchase? They use it to make their incredible Tweedy yarn J

Understanding Raglan Easy Sweater Knit Patterns

Raglan sleeves are a popular choice for sweaters as they create a flattering and comfortable fit. Unlike traditional set-in sleeves, raglan sleeves are seamlessly integrated into the body of the sweater, eliminating the need for complicated shaping and sewing. This makes raglan sleeve patterns ideal for beginners or those looking for a quick and easy knitting project.

The free Glacier Run knit sweater pattern features clear instructions and diagrams, guiding you through each step of the process. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just starting out, you’ll find this pattern easy to follow and rewarding to knit.

Tips for Successful Sweater Knitting

Knitting a sweater may seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tips, it can be an enjoyable and fulfilling project.

Firstly, take the time to swatch and gauge your knitting before starting the sweater. This will ensure that your finished garment fits correctly and matches the pattern’s measurements—making sure it will fit like it should!

Secondly, break down the pattern into manageable sections and focus on one step at a time. This will prevent overwhelm and allow you to fully understand each instruction before moving on.

Additionally, make use of stitch markers to keep track of important stitch counts and pattern repeats. I mark every sleeve decrease with a clip-in stitch marker so I can easily count how many more I need to do.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help or consult online resources if you encounter any difficulties. Knitting communities and forums are full of experienced knitters who are more than willing to offer guidance and support. And you can always email me!

Customizing Your Sweater for the Perfect Fit

One of the advantages of knitting your own sweater is the ability to customize it to achieve the perfect fit. The Glacier Run pattern provides instructions for various sizes, but you can further tailor the sweater to your specific measurements using the in-depth Modification Guide included in the downloadable PDF available for free when you sign up for my email list below. Take accurate body (and swatch) measurements before starting the project and adjust the pattern accordingly.

You can lengthen or shorten the body and sleeves, modify the neckline, incorporate shaping to accentuate your figure, and so much more. By making these adjustments, you’ll ensure that your sweater fits you like a dream and flatters your unique body shape.

Finishing Techniques for a Professional-Looking Sweater

The true mark of a well-made sweater lies in its finishing details. To achieve a professional-looking garment, pay attention to the finishing techniques. Choose your cast on’s and bind off’s with care—consider using the uber-polished 2/2 Sewn Rib BO. Next, neatly weave in any loose ends to ensure a clean and polished look.

Finally, blocking your sweater is an essential step that helps even out stitches, relax the fabric, and give your sweater its final shape. Follow the blocking instructions provided in the pattern to achieve the best results.

The Details for Your Free Easy Sweater Knit Pattern

Sizes
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) (6, 7, 8, 9)
#sizeinclusive

Finished Bust Circumference
31.25 (35, 39, 43.25, 47) (51, 55.25, 59, 63)”/ 79.5 (89, 99, 110, 119.5) (129.5, 140.5, 150, 160) cm

Yarn
MC – 785 (860, 985, 1075, 1185) (1365, 1485, 1615, 1710) yds/720 (785, 900, 985, 1085) (1250, 1360, 1475, 1565) m – DK weight (double the yardage when using fingering weight held double)

CC – 72 (80, 88, 97, 106) (116, 126, 135, 143) yds/ 66 (73, 80, 89, 97) (106, 115, 123, 131) m total for all 7 CCs in DK or light worsted, which breaks down to approximately 10 (11, 13, 14, 15) (17, 18, 19, 20) yds/ 9 (10, 12, 13, 14) (16, 16, 17, 18) m per 2 stripe pair.

Suggested Yarn
Hedgehog Fibers Sock Yarn (90% Merino Wool, 10% Nylon) 437 yds/400 m, 100 g

MC – 4 (4, 5, 5, 6) [7, 7, 8, 8] skeins in a Potluck Fade (or fade of choice) CC – 1 skein in a high contrast Potluck color (or color of choice)

Needles & Notions
US 7/4.50 mm – 40”/100 cm circulars
US 6/4.00 mm – 40”/100 cm circular and preferred needles for small circumference knitting
Stitch markers, stitch holders or waste yarn, tapestry needle

Techniques to Indulge In
Ribbing
Compound Raglan Shaping
Stripes
Waist Shaping (optional)

Download the PDF Pattern for FREE!

Get the full schematic, notes, modification guide for FREE all in a downloadable PDF when you sign up below!

Glossary for the Easy Knit Sweater Pattern

O – Bind off

CC – contrast color

CO – cast on

k – knit

k2tog – knit 2 sts together

kfb – k1, keep the st on the left needle and k1 into the back of the same st

m – marker

M1R – make 1 right-leaning increase – Insert the left needle from back to front under the horizontal bar between your last worked st and the next st to be worked. Knit the front leg of the loop (which twists the bar to the right).

M1L – make 1 left-leaning increase – Insert the left needle from front to back under the horizontal bar between your last worked st and the next st to be worked. Knit the back leg of the loop (which twists the bar to the left).

MC – main color
p – purl
patt – pattern
pm – place marker rep – repeat

sm – slip marker

ssk – slip 2 sts knitwise one at a time, return slipped sts to the left-hand needles, knit together through the back loops

st(s) – stitch(es)

The Free Easy Sweater Knitting Pattern

Collar

CO 88 (88, 96, 104, 104) (104, 104, 112, 116) using MC and US 7/4.50 mm needles. Join in the round and pm.

Round 1: * K2, p2, rep from * to m.

Repeat Round 1 five more times.

Top of Raglan Shaping

The Raglan Increase Round will be used for shaping throughout the Top, Middle, and Bottom Raglan Shaping sections, it will be worked like this:

Raglan Increase Round: K to 2 sts before m, kfb, k1, sm, k1, kfb, k to 2 sts before m, kfb, k1, sm, k1, kfb, k to 2 sts before m, kfb, k1, sm, k1, kfb, k to 2 sts before m, kfb, k1, sm, k1, kfb, k to end.

Tip: When placing markers in Round 1, use a different color than the BOR marker to avoid confusion.

Round 1: K13 (15, 18, 20, 21) (20, 22, 23, 25), kfb, k1, pm, k1, kfb, k9 (5, 4, 3, 2) (3, 0, 2, 0), kfb, k1, pm, k1, kfb, k27 (31, 36, 41, 42) (41, 44, 46, 50) kfb, k1, pm, k1, kfb, k9 (5, 4, 3, 2) (3, 0, 2, 0), kfb, k1, pm, k1, kfb, k to end – 96 (96, 104, 112, 112) (112, 112, 120, 124) sts.

Round 2: Work Raglan Increase Round – 104 (104, 112, 120, 120) (120, 120, 128, 132) sts.

Sizes 1 (2, 3, 4, 5) ONLY:

Round 3: K around

Round 4: Work Raglan Increase Round – 112 (112, 120, 128, 128) sts.

Round 5: Work Raglan Increase Round – 120 (120, 128, 136, 136) sts.

Round 6: K around.

Repeat Rounds 4-6 zero (1, 1, 2, 3) more times – 120 (136, 144, 168, 184) sts. Then proceed to Middle Raglan Shaping.

Sizes 6 (7, 8, 9) ONLY:

Repeat Raglan Increase Round four (4, 6, 6) more times – 152 (152, 176, 180) sts. Then proceed to Middle Raglan Shaping.

Middle Raglan Shaping

All sizes read the next section for AT THE SAME TIME beginning of stripes.

Sizes 1 (2, 3, 4, 5) ONLY:

Round 1: Work Raglan Increase Round – 128 (144, 152, 176, 192) sts.

Rounds 2-3: K around.

Repeat Rounds 1-3 ten (9, 10, 7, 7) more times – 208 (216, 232, 232, 248) sts. (Don’t forget to look below for at the same time stripes!)

Sizes 6 (7, 8, 9) ONLY:

Round 1: Work Raglan Increase Round – 160 (160, 184, 188) sts.

Round 2: K around.

Repeat Rounds 1-2 twenty-seven (27, 27, 28) more times – 376 (376, 400, 412) sts.  (Don’t forget to look below for at the same time stripes!)

Stripe Sequence for Free Easy Sweater Knit Pattern

All Sizes Resume:

Work Top and Middle Raglan increases for 4 (4, 5, 5, 5) (5, 6, 6, 6)” from the CO edge. Then attach CC1 and begin working Stripe Sequence AT THE SAME TIME as raglan shaping, body, and sleeves.

Stripe Sequence: Work 1 round in patt with CC1, then 7 rounds in patt in MC, work 1 more round in patt in CC1, and then 13 rounds in patt in MC. (Don’t forget to count the MC round on the needles!)

Repeat Stripe Sequence in full 5 more times along the raglan, body of the sweater, and sleeves, using all CC2-6. For CC7, follow the first 9 rounds of the Stripe Sequence and omit the last 13 rounds of knitting in MC and instead follow the instructions to finish the cuff and hem. (Keep reading to next page.)

For a jogless join (unable to tell where the color stripe begins and ends), slip the last st in the round before beginning the CC round, knit the CC round, and then slip the first st in the next MC round.

To avoid puckering or a shortening of the fabric in the area of these two sts, I moved where I began the stripe for each new color band.

Bottom of Raglan

Sizes 1 (2, 3, 4, 5) ONLY:

Round 1: Work Raglan Increase Round – 216 (224, 240, 240, 256) sts.

Round 2: Work Raglan Increase Round – 224 (232, 248, 248, 264) sts.

Round 3: K around.

Repeat Rounds 1-3 four (5, 6, 8, 9) more times – 288 (312, 344, 376, 408) sts.

Sizes 6 (7, 8, 9) ONLY:

Round 1: Work Raglan Increase Round – 384 (384, 408, 420) sts.

Repeat Round 1 nine (13, 15, 17) more times – 456 (488, 528, 556) sts.

All sizes resume.

Sleeves and Body Division

Note: If a stripe falls on this round, knit one round with the stripe and begin the Division Round on the next round.

Round 1: K 41 (46, 52, 57, 62) (68, 73, 78, 84), place 61 (63, 68, 73, 80) (93, 98, 108, 110) sts on st holder or waste yarn, k 83 (93, 104, 115, 125) (136, 147, 157, 168), place 61 (63, 68, 73, 80) (93, 98, 108, 110) sts on st holder or waste yarn, k to end – 166 (186, 208, 230, 248) (270, 292, 312, 336) sts remaining on needles.

Body for Easy Sweater Knit Pattern

Without shaping:

Knit in the round while working your Stripe Sequence until Stripe Sequence is complete (14 stripes in all 7 CCs), or you’ve reached your desired length minus 1”. Knit 2 more rounds in MC. Sizes 3, 6 & 9 proceed to Hem; all other sizes proceed to last line of Body instructions.

With 4” of waist shaping:

Work Stripe sequence until sweater reaches 11” from the CO edge.

Note: Decreases and increases for shaping will be worked along four bust and back darts.

Set up Round: K16 (18, 20, 22, 24) (26, 28, 30, 32), pm, k 51 (57, 64, 71, 77) (84, 91, 97, 104), pm, k 32 (36, 40, 44, 48) (52, 56, 60, 64), pm, k 51 (57, 64, 71, 77) (84, 91, 97, 104), pm, k16 (18, 20, 22, 24) (26, 28, 30, 32).

Decrease Round: K to 2 sts before m, k2tog, sm, k to m, sm, ssk, k to 2 sts before m, k2tog, sm, k to m, sm, ssk, k to end – 162 (182, 204, 226, 244) (266, 288, 308, 332) sts.

Repeat Decrease Round on every 4th round 4 more times. Remember to work your Stripe Sequence AT THE SAME TIME – 146 (166, 188, 210, 228) (250, 272, 292, 316) sts.

Knit in patt for 1”/2.5 cm.

Increase Round: K to m, M1L, sm, k to m, sm, M1R, k to m, M1L, sm, k to m, sm, M1R, k to end – 150 (170, 192, 214, 232) (254, 276, 296, 320) sts.

Repeat Increase Round on every 5th round 4 more times. Remember to continue to work your Stripe Sequence AT THE SAME TIME – 166 (186, 208, 230, 248) (270, 292, 312, 336) sts.

Continue knitting in the round while working your Stripe Sequence until Stripe Sequence is complete, or you’ve reached your desired length minus 1”/2.5 cm.

Knit 2 additional rounds in MC. 

Sizes 1 (2, 4, 6) ONLY:

Round 1: K to approximate halfway point, k2tog, k to 2 sts before m, k2tog.

All sizes resume.

Hem

Round 1: * K2, p2, rep from * around.

Switch to US 6/4.00 mm.

Repeat Round 1 for 1”/2.5 cm. BO in patt.

Sleeves (Make 2)

Place sleeves back on needles – 61 (63, 68, 73, 80) (93, 98, 108, 110) sts. Attach MC at the middle of the underarm.

Sizes 1 (2, 4, 6) ONLY:

Set Up Round: K to 3 sts before end, k2tog, k1 – 60 (62, 72, 92) sts.

All Sizes Resume:

Round 1: K around.

Repeat Round 1 one time.

Decrease Round: K1, ssk, k to 3 sts before the end, k2tog, k1 – 58 (60, 66, 70, 78) (90, 96, 106, 108) sts.

While working Stripe Sequence AT THE SAME TIME, repeat the Decrease Round every 1.5 (1.25, 1.25, 1, 1) (.75, .75, .5, .5)”/ 4 (3, 3, 2.5, 2.5) (2, 2, 1.5, 1.5) cm, 9 (10, 11, 13, 15) (21, 22, 27, 26) more times. Work until sleeve reaches 15.5 (16, 16, 16.5, 16.5) (17, 17, 17.5, 17.5)”/ 39.5 (40.5, 40.5, 42, 42) (43, 43, 44.5, 44.5) cm or desired length, making sure to end on an MC round – 40 (40, 44, 44, 48) (48, 52, 52, 56) sts.

Cuff

Switch to US 6/4.00mm.

Round 1: * K2, p2, rep from * around.

Repeat Round 1 for 1”. BO in patt. Weave in ends, block, and enjoy!

If you share photos of your Nurture Knitwear projects, please be sure to tag me @nurtureknitwear and use the hashtags #nurtureknitwear and #glacierrunpullover.

Styling and caring for your handmade sweater

Once you’ve completed your sweater, it’s time to show it off and enjoy the cozy warmth it provides. Styling your handmade sweater is a fun and creative process that allows you to experiment with different outfits and accessories. Pair your sweater with jeans and boots for a casual, everyday look, or dress it up with a skirt and heels for a more polished ensemble.

Don’t be afraid to play with layering, adding scarves, hats, or statement jewelry to enhance your outfit.

When it comes to caring for your handmade sweater, follow the care instructions provided with the yarn. Handwashing and laying flat to dry is often recommended for natural fibers, and while synthetic fibers may be machine washable I recommend hand wash for them too. With proper care, your handmade sweater will last for years to come, providing warmth and comfort season after season.

Wrap Up (In Your) Easy Sweater Knitting Pattern

In conclusion, knitting your own sweaters is a rewarding and fulfilling. It allows you to express your creativity, relax, and create beautiful garments. With our free easy sweater knit pattern, you can embark on a cozy and stylish knitting journey.

By choosing the right yarn, understanding the pattern instructions, and utilizing helpful tips and techniques, you’ll be able to create a sweater that fits you perfectly and reflects your personal style. Remember to pay attention to finishing details and care for your handmade sweater to ensure its longevity.

I hope you enjoy knitting your way to cozy and chic sweaters with our free sweater knit pattern! And if you’re hungry for more knitting projects, check me out on Ravelry & Etsy for a wide range of sweater knitting patterns to keep your needles busy.