24 Raglan Sweater Knitting Patterns You Will Want to Cast On Today
If there is one sweater construction I keep coming back to, it is the raglan. Those diagonal lines running from the underarm to the neck give a relaxed, flattering fit, and most raglan sweater knitting patterns are worked top-down so you can try them on as you go.
This curated list brings together 24 favorites, from beginner-friendly first sweaters to chunky quick knits, lightweight layers, little ones’ jumpers and a handful of raglan cardigans. You will find mostly free patterns plus a few paid gems, in sizes from newborn all the way up to 5XL.
No time right now? Pin this collection of raglan sweater knitting patterns for later!
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Easy Top-Down Raglan Sweaters for Your First Sweater
A top-down raglan is the friendliest way to knit your first sweater. These patterns walk you through every step and keep the shaping simple.
Flax by Tin Can Knits
Flax is the classic learn-to-knit-a-sweater pattern, with a garter stitch panel running down each sleeve. The blog post doubles as a full tutorial, so it feels like having a teacher right next to you.
It now comes in three versions, worsted/aran, DK and sock/sport weight, and the size range covers babies to big adults. It is worked top-down in the round with optional short rows at the back neck.
Find the free Flax top-down raglan sweater pattern here >>
Fall Bluff Pullover by Ashley Lillis
The Fall Bluff Pullover is designed as a perfect first sweater, with no fussy neckline or body shaping to worry about. Super bulky yarn means you could be wearing it after a few cozy evenings.
It is written in 8 sizes with a finished bust from 37 inches and up, knit top-down on 9 mm needles. The pattern is part of Ashley’s pattern library, which you can access through her bundle.
Find the Fall Bluff super bulky raglan pullover pattern here >>
The Everyday Raglan by Sheep and Stitch
This relaxed pullover lives up to its name: it is the sweater you reach for every single day. It was designed with nervous first-time sweater knitters in mind.
It is knit top-down in one seamless piece, so you can try it on along the way. A four-part video series walks you through the whole process, and the pattern is available in the Sheep and Stitch shop.
Find the Everyday Raglan easy beginner sweater pattern here >>
Funfetti Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Funfetti Sweater is a simple raglan with bright pops of color that make me smile every time I wear it. It is one of my go-to recommendations for a first garment.
It is written for sizes XS to 5XL in chunky yarn, so it grows quickly on your needles. The seamless construction means there is almost nothing to sew up at the end.
Find the free Funfetti chunky raglan sweater knitting pattern here >>
Classic Raglan Pullovers for Women and Men
These are the timeless raglan pullovers that work with jeans, dresses and everything in between. Several of them are unisex, so you can knit one for yourself and one for your favorite person.
Threaded Raglan Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Threaded Raglan Sweater feels modern but still cozy, with a lovely detail that follows the raglan lines. It is the kind of sweater you can dress up or down all season long.
It is written for sizes XS to 5XL and worked top-down and seamless in DK weight yarn. The lighter yarn gives it a beautiful drape without too much bulk.
Find the free Threaded Raglan top-down sweater pattern here >>
October Sweater by Originally Lovely
The October Sweater is a relaxed, unisex raglan in plain stockinette with neat ribbed edges. It is exactly the kind of wardrobe staple you will wear on repeat.
It comes in 9 sizes from XS to 5X and is worked top-down in the round in worsted weight yarn. The pattern is free on the blog and designed with 6 to 10 inches of positive ease.
Find the October Sweater free unisex raglan pattern here >>
Out & About Men’s Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Out & About Men’s Sweater is a grown-up version of my popular kids’ design, made for everyday wear. Saddle shoulders combined with raglan shaping give it a comfortable, polished fit.
It is written for men’s sizes S to 5XL in DK weight yarn and knit top-down. There is also a Lion Brand kit if you would like the yarn sorted for you.
Find the free men’s raglan sweater knitting pattern here >>
Touch of Lace Knit Sweater by love. life. yarn.
This pullover has raglan sleeves with a pretty lace panel running up each sleeve and down the front. Deep ribbing at the hem and cuffs gives it a classic finish.
It is written for sizes XS to 4X in worsted weight yarn and worked in pieces for a structured fit. The full pattern is free on the blog, with an ad-free PDF available.
Find the Touch of Lace raglan knit sweater pattern here >>
Chunky Raglan Sweaters That Knit Up Fast
When you want a new sweater by next weekend, chunky and bulky yarns are your best friends. These raglans are warm, squishy and satisfyingly quick.
Chunky Hug Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Chunky Hug Sweater feels exactly like its name, a big warm hug on a cold day. It is a simple, beginner-friendly knit that still looks special.
It uses super bulky yarn and a top-down raglan construction, written in a size-inclusive range. You can try it on as you go to get the length just right.
Find the free Chunky Hug raglan sweater knitting pattern here >>
Color Divide Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Color Divide Sweater plays with bold stripes and fun details while keeping the knitting easy. It works up super fast thanks to the chunky yarn.
It is written for sizes XS to 5XL and worked top-down with raglan increases, so fitting is a breeze. Pick your favorite color combination and make it your own.
Find the free Color Divide chunky raglan sweater pattern here >>
Dotty Pullover by Yay For Yarn
The Dotty Pullover adds a sweet dot texture to a classic raglan using nothing but knits and purls. It is a great next step when plain stockinette starts to feel a little too plain.
It comes in sizes XS to 5X in bulky weight yarn and is knit seamlessly from the neckline down. The complete pattern is free on the page with finished measurements for every size.
Find the Dotty Pullover free bulky raglan sweater pattern here >>
Clubhouse Raglan Hoodie by Two of Wands
The Clubhouse Raglan Hoodie is a knitted take on the classic hooded sweatshirt, complete with an i-cord drawstring. It is pure weekend comfort.
It is written for sizes XS to 4XL and worked top-down with roomy ease. This one is a paid pattern available in the Two of Wands shop.
Find the Clubhouse top-down raglan hoodie knitting pattern here >>
Lightweight and Striped Raglan Sweaters for Layering
Not every raglan has to be thick and heavy. These lighter knits and striped designs are perfect for transitional weather and layering.
Adriana Striped Raglan Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Adriana Sweater pairs soft stripes with an easy top-down raglan, which makes it a joy to knit. Holding mohair with DK yarn gives it a light, airy halo.
It is written for sizes XS to 5XL and is beginner-friendly. The stripes are a great way to play with color without any complicated techniques.
Find the free Adriana striped raglan sweater knitting pattern here >>
Autumn League Pullover by Two of Wands
The Autumn League Pullover has deep raglans, a V-insert at the neck and side slits for a relaxed but polished look. Faux seams add a lovely bit of structure.
It comes in 8 sizes from XS to 4XL and is knit top-down fully in the round in DK weight yarn. The pattern is free on the blog, with an ad-free PDF available.
Find the Autumn League free top-down raglan pullover pattern here >>
Geniality Sweater by A Bee In The Bonnet
The Geniality Sweater combines a smooth stockinette body with lacy sleeves for a pullover that feels a little bit special. A crisp ridge along the raglan lines adds a neat finishing touch.
It is a top-down, seamless raglan in DK weight yarn, graded to nine sizes. This is a paid pattern available through Etsy, Ravelry and Payhip.
Find the Geniality lacy sleeve raglan sweater pattern here >>
Seamless Knit Tee by love. life. yarn.
For warmer days, this short-sleeved raglan tee brings the same easy construction to a breezy summer top. Small eyelets mark the raglan increases for a delicate detail.
It is worked top-down and seamless in DK weight cotton, in sizes S to 2XL. The pattern is free on the blog, with an ad-free PDF if you prefer to print it.
Find the seamless top-down raglan knit tee pattern here >>
Raglan Sweaters for Kids and Babies
Raglans are perfect for little ones because they are easy to pull on and leave room to grow. Many of these come in a huge range of sizes, so you can knit matching sweaters for the whole family.
Edgar Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Edgar Sweater is a practical, cozy raglan with an easy button closure on the shoulder, so it slips on without a fuss. Chunky yarn means you can finish one in no time.
It is written for sizes 3 months to 14 years and knit top-down. It is a lovely pattern for knitters of all skill levels.
Find the free Edgar child raglan sweater knitting pattern here >>
Paint Colorblock Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Paint Colorblock Sweater uses bold blocks of color for a playful look kids love. A button shoulder makes it easy to pull over little heads.
It is written for sizes 3 months to 14 years in worsted weight yarn, with an easy top-down raglan construction. Make matching sweaters for all your kiddos.
Find the free Paint Colorblock kids raglan sweater pattern here >>
Wander Knit Sweater by Briana K Designs
The Wander Sweater is a simple top-down raglan that makes for a really relaxing knit. It is designed for all genders, which makes it ideal for family matching.
Sizes range from 1 year old all the way to adult 2X, worked on a US 7 (4.5 mm) circular needle. The full pattern is free on the blog.
Find the Wander free family raglan knit sweater pattern here >>
Sleepy Bunny Sweater by love. life. yarn.
This adorable baby sweater features a little bunny stitched on the front, ready for naps and snuggles. It would make the sweetest baby shower gift.
It is worked flat in worsted weight yarn with raglan armholes, so it is great if you are not comfortable with circular needles yet. The pattern is free on the blog.
Find the Sleepy Bunny free knit baby raglan sweater pattern here >>
Aubin Baby Sweater by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Aubin Sweater is a classic baby raglan with ribbed cuffs, neck and hem, and it comes with matching pants. Together they make a modern take on traditional knitted baby clothes.
It is written for sizes 3 to 24 months in worsted weight yarn and knit top-down. It is the perfect gift for a new mama or a future family heirloom.
Find the free Aubin baby raglan sweater knitting pattern here >>
Raglan Cardigans to Knit Top-Down
Love the raglan fit but prefer an open front? These cardigans use the same easy top-down construction.
Stillwater Cardigan by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Stillwater Cardigan is a lightweight open-front raglan that is perfect for spring and summer layering. An I-cord cast-on gives the neckline a beautifully clean edge.
It is worked seamlessly from the top down in a soft cotton-bamboo yarn. There is also a Lion Brand kit if you want the exact yarn.
Find the free Stillwater top-down raglan cardigan pattern here >>
Alix Cardigan by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Alix Cardigan is a cozy everyday cardigan for little ones that can grow with your child for years. It is warm without being too bulky, which makes it great for layering.
It is written for sizes 3 months to 14 years in worsted weight yarn. It uses a classic top-down raglan construction starting at the collar.
Find the free Alix kids raglan cardigan knitting pattern here >>
Bonbon Cardigan by Knitting with Chopsticks
The Bonbon Cardigan is an easy raglan cardigan knit from the collar down, so you can check the fit as you go. It is a sweet, simple layer you will wear all year.
It is written for sizes XS to 5XL in worsted weight milk cotton yarn. The beginner-friendly instructions make it a great first cardigan.
Find the free Bonbon raglan cardigan knitting pattern here >>
I hope you found a raglan (or three!) to add to your queue. Whether you start with a quick chunky pullover, a lightweight layer for spring or a tiny sweater for a little one, the raglan is such a satisfying construction to master. Once you have knit one, you will understand why so many knitters keep coming back to it.
Ready to cast on but not sure which size to pick? Grab my free Perfect Fit Guide and take the guesswork out of sizing for good. Get your free guide here.
