knit sweater – As autumn’s chill sets in, our thoughts turn to chunky knits and cozy sweaters. But instead of picking up the same old pullover, why not knit yourself a sweater that’s on-trend and oh-so-stylish?
In this post, we’ll explore the top knitting patterns that are totally of-the-moment. Learn how to craft contemporary sweater designs that’ll have friends asking “Where did you get that?” From cables to colorwork, read on for chic handmade inspiration!
Benefits of Knitting Your Own Sweater
Before we dive into the sweater trends, let’s look at why knitting your own is a fab idea:
- Custom fit – Make a sweater perfectly contoured to your measurements. No more boxy, shapeless pieces!
- Creative control – Choose fun colors and stitches you love. Add personal touches like embroidery or patches.
- Cost savings – DIY is cheaper than buying a readymade sweater at retail prices.
- Quality materials – Use softer, natural fibers like merino wool or alpaca that feel great.
- Eco-friendly – Reduce fashion waste by creating durable pieces you’ll wear for years.
- Relaxing hobby – Knitting reduces stress and anxiety while keeping your hands busy.
- Skill building – Tackling new techniques expands your knitting knowledge.
Let’s get crafting chic knits with major style! Here are the trendiest sweater patterns right now:
Cozy Turtlenecks
Turtleneck sweater dresses are having a major moment. Stay toasty in this winter wardrobe staple:
- Knit fitted or slightly oversized shapes. Play with lengths – try mini, midi or maxi.
- A ribbed turtleneck adds classic preppy style. Fold it over for extra snugness.
- Knit in wool, cashmere or alpaca yarn for warmth and luxury. Try a fuzzy mohair blend too.
- Add interest with cable motifs, lace panels or Fair Isle colorwork around the neckline.
Slip into this turtleneck knit dress for feminine chic with timeless appeal.
Oversized and Slouchy
Say goodbye to tight and constricting – loose and slouchy silhouettes are so on-trend right now:
- Knit boxy, exaggerated shapes with wide sleeves and low shoulders.
- Choose bulky yarns and larger needles for a roomy, cozy fit.
- Incorporate turtlenecks, cowls or mock necks to accentuate the slouchy vibe.
- Stick to neutral, earthy color palettes like ecru, tan, brown, grey, or olive green.
This laidback oversized style effortlessly channels today’s comfy-chic fashion aesthetic.
Rugby Striped Sweaters
Bold rugby stripes lend a sporty, casual vibe to knits. Pep up your wardrobe with this playful look:
- Use contrasting colors on the collar, cuffs and hem for that iconic rugby style.
- Stripe patterns can be as narrow or wide as you like – get creative!
- Try unconventional shades like pastels, neons or jewel tones instead of the expected.
- Add on-trend details like a Henley placket, raglan sleeves or side slits.
This youthful striped sweater is a fresh, fun update to a preppy classic.
Short & Boxy Cropped Sweaters
The cropped sweater is back in a major way! Show off your style with this retro design:
- Knit straight, boxy shapes that end above the waist or hips without tapering.
- Balloon or drop sleeves enhance the straight silhouette.
- Cropped lengths pair perfectly with high waisted bottoms.
- Stick to solid colors or minimal detailing. Let the cropped shape stand out.
Charmingly vintage and so figure-flattering – you’ll adore this cropped knit.
Hooded Cardigans
Cozy up in hooded cardigans – the cooler weather knit you didn’t know you needed:
- Knit a roomy, slouchy cardigan then attach an oversized hood.
- Add roomy patch pockets, a belted waist, or robe-style ties.
- Knit in wool, alpaca or cotton for lightweight layering.
-details like cable knit or a contrast color hood.
This hooded cardigan adds function to flair for a knit you’ll grab all season long.
Cabled Aran Sweaters
Traditional Aran knits are back in a big way. Recreate the Irish fisherman’s iconic sweater:
- Incorporate cables, braids, diamonds, ropes and other intricate motifs.
- Stick to cream, grey, ivory or oatmeal colored wool.
- Add a boldly colored yoke for a pop of contrast.
- Finish with ribbed cuffs, turtleneck or crew neck, and hem.
Handsome, elegant, and so timeless – this Aran beauty will be in style forever.
Modern Fair Isle
Give classic Fair Isle knits a fresh spin for today’s trendsetters:
- Use unconventional color combos like neon, pastel or retro-inspired palettes.
- Incorporate large-scale and oversized motifs instead of traditional smaller patterns.
- Add your own flair with customized embroidery, patches or applique.
- Finish with on-trend details like cropped length, balloon sleeves or side slits.
This modernized Fair Isle sweater will showcase your knitting skills and style sensibility!
Tips for Knitting On-Trend Sweaters
Ready to start crafting your own fashion-forward knits? Follow these handy tips:
- Choose soft, high-quality yarns like merino wool, alpaca, or cashmere for comfort and durability.
- Swatch your gauge before starting to ensure proper fit. Use the same needles and yarn for swatch and project.
- Carefully read patterns first to confirm you have the needed skills and knowledge before casting on.
- Check finished measurements and adjust needle size if required to match your desired fit.
- Become a blocking pro – it makes all the difference in finishing. Invest in mats, rust-proof pins and spray.
- Size up needle circumference for skinny areas like necklines and sleeves to prevent stretching out.
- Fix any mistakes immediately to avoid rippling. Keep a crochet hook in your kit!
With some planning and practice, you’ll be crafting and rocking chic handknit sweaters in no time!
Essential Supplies
Having quality tools makes executing trendy knitting patterns much easier. Be sure your kit includes:
- Interchangeable circular needle sets for a full range of sizes.
- Extra long cables to accommodate large circumferences.
- Double pointed needles for knitting narrow openings and details.
- Removable row counters to track complex patterns.
- Stitch markers in bright colors to denote important stitches.
- Retractable tape measure for checking gauge and fit.
- Stitch holders to preserve live stitches if stepping away.
Invest in great needles, notions and accessories for a superior knitting adventure!
Caring for Handknit Sweaters
Follow these care tips to keep your sweater looking fabulous season after season:
- Carefully hand wash in cool water with a wool-safe soap. Never wring or twist.
- Lay flat to dry on a towel instead of hanging to prevent stretching out.
- Steam block again if needed to restore shape after washing.
- Store folded in breathable containers instead of hung up.
- Avoid direct heat which may cause fibers to felt or shrink.
With some basic maintenance, your handknit sweater will stay beautiful for years of wear!
Get Inspired and Get Knitting!
As you can see, knitters have so many on-trend options to craft unique, personalized sweaters this season. Whether you love intricate cables, lush oversized fits or popping colorwork, you can handmake sweaters that rival any luxury boutique.
Hopefully these popular patterns have sparked inspiration for your next cozy DIY project. Stay on top of new ideas by browsing knitting blogs, Insta feeds and Ravelry.
Happy knitting! Please share pics of your fabulous finished creations – I’d love to see what trendy designs you dreamed up. Looking forward to all the amazing handknits you’ll craft this year!
