If you’re looking for an easy herringbone knit sweater pattern that combines texture, simplicity, and modern style, this zigzag pullover is the perfect project. The stitch pattern looks intricate but is surprisingly simple to memorize, making it a great choice for adventurous beginners and experienced knitters alike. This easy herringbone knit sweater pattern uses soft organic cotton yarn and a straightforward construction for the body. You’ll also find clear instructions for sizing, shaping, and finishing, so the result feels polished and handmade. Whether you’re knitting your first pullover or adding a relaxed everyday layer to your wardrobe, this easy knit sweater pattern delivers beautiful fabric and a satisfying knit.
Sizes
Pattern measurements are given for sizes XS (S) M (L) XL.
Materials
Yarn: Schachenmayr Organic Cotton (100% organic cotton; 155 m / 50 g):
8 (9) 9 (10) 10 skeins in yellow (color #00022).
Circular knitting needles, size US 3 (3.25 mm) with a 32″ (80 cm) cable.
Tapestry needle.
Gauge
Zigzag pattern: 26 sts × 45 rows = 4″ × 4″ (10 × 10 cm).
Stitch Patterns & Techniques
1×1 Ribbing
Row 1 (WS): P1, k1, p1 across.
Row 2 (RS): K1, p1, k1 across.
Zigzag Pattern (multiple of 18 sts)
Work according to the chart. Repeat rows 1–4.
Knitting Chart
Back
Using US size 3 (3.25 mm) circular needles, cast on 127 (135) 145 (163) 171 sts.
Work in Zigzag pattern according to the chart for your size.
Continue until piece measures 21 (24) 27 (29) 33 cm (approx. 8.25″ – 13″) from cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.
Shape underarm extensions
Increase 1 st at each end of the next row, then increase 1 st at each end every following RS row 4 more times. Work increased sts into the pattern.
You now have 137 (145) 155 (173) 181 sts.
At the beginning of the next 2 rows, cast on 12 sts at each edge.
At the beginning of the following 2 rows, cast on 21 sts at each edge.
Mark each edge with a stitch marker after the last cast-on row.
You now have 203 (211) 221 (239) 247 sts.
This is the moment when this easy herringbone knit sweater pattern begins to take shape. Continue even until piece measures 19 (20) 21 (22) 23 cm (approx. 7.5″ – 9″) from the marked row, ending with a WS row.
Back shoulder shaping and neckline
At the beginning of the next 6 rows, bind off 5 (6) 6 (6) 7 sts once, then at the beginning of the following 6 rows, bind off 5 (5) 6 (6) sts once.
Remaining sts: 143 (145) 149 (167) 169 sts.
Place markers around the center 31 (33) 33 (35) 37 sts for the back neck.
Next row (RS): Bind off 5 (5) 5 (6) 6 sts, work in pattern to first marker.
Slip center 31 (33) 33 (35) 37 sts to a stitch holder.
Join second ball of yarn and work remaining sts to end.
Work both sides simultaneously.
For shoulders
Bind off 5 (5) 5 (6) 6 sts once more, then 5 (5) 5 (6) 6 sts 7 (7) 8 (2) 2 times, then 4 (4) 0 (5) 5 sts 1 (1) 0 (7) 7 times.
At the same time (neck edge)
Bind off 8 sts once, then decrease 4 (4) 5 (5) 5 × 1 st at neck edge.
Front
Work same as Back.
Finishing
Pin pieces to measurements, dampen, and allow to dry completely.
Sew shoulder seams.
Neckband
Pick up and knit 25 (25) 26 (26) 27 sts along left front neck edge.
Knit across 31 (33) 33 (35) 37 held front neck sts.
Pick up and knit 25 (25) 26 (26) 27 sts along right front neck edge.
Pick up and knit 25 (25) 26 (26) 27 sts along right back neck edge.
Knit across 31 (33) 33 (35) 37 held back neck sts.
Pick up and knit 25 (25) 26 (26) 27 sts along left back neck edge.
Total sts: 162 (166) 170 (174) 182.
Bind off all sts knitwise.
Sleeve Cuffs
Along lower edge of sleeve (between marked rows), pick up and knit 107 (113) 117 (123) 129 sts.
Knit 1 row (WS).
From next row (RS), work in 1×1 ribbing for 15 cm (approx. 6″).
Bind off all sts in pattern.
Work the second cuff the same way.
Bottom Edge
Sew side seams and sleeve seams.
Along cast-on edge of front and back, pick up and knit 124 (136) 146 (162) 172 sts from each piece.
Total = 248 (272) 292 (324) 344 sts. Join in the round.
Bind off all sts knitwise.
Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle.
You’ve just completed an easy herringbone knit sweater pattern – perfect for everyday wear. The zigzag texture works beautifully with both solid and variegated yarns, and the relaxed fit makes this pullover a go-to layering piece. Once you’ve mastered this easy herringbone knit sweater pattern, try experimenting with different yarn weights or adding length to the cuffs and hem for a customized look.
Sweater Schematic
