Meet the Bonnie Cardigan Sewing Pattern
Looking for a layer you’ll want to throw on with just about everything? Meet Bonnie – our versatile cardigan sewing pattern that’s cosy, comfortable and full of possibilities.
With a choice of cropped or hip-length styles, full-length balloon or above-elbow puff sleeves, and button-front or tie-front openings, Bonnie makes it easy to create a cardigan that suits your style. Keep things classic with buttons, add a playful touch with ties, or experiment with different knit fabrics to make each version feel completely different.
Never learnt to knit? No problem! You can still create your dream cardigan with a sewing machine. Designed for confident beginners, Bonnie features quick-to-sew raglan seams and our signature clear, step-by-step photo instructions to guide you through the process.
Available in 15 sizes (UK 6–34 / US 2–30 / EUR 34–62) in printed and PDF formats, including a projector file.
GET THE BONNIE CARDIGAN SEWING PATTERN
Bonnie sewing pattern design details
Here’s what makes the Bonnie sewing pattern such a lovely addition to your handmade wardrobe:
- Choice of cropped or hip-length cardigan
- Full-length balloon sleeves or above-elbow puff sleeves
- Button-front or tie-front opening
- Relaxed fit with a classic crew neckline
- Raglan sleeves for a comfortable fit and satisfying sewing
- Separate neckband, button stands, hem band and cuffs
- Designed for stretch knit fabrics
- Award-winning, photo-rich instructions to guide you every step of the way
Whether you love a classic cardigan with buttons or prefer a softer, more playful look with ties, Bonnie gives you plenty of ways to make it your own.
Bonnie sewing pattern sizes and format options
The Bonnie sewing pattern is available in printed and PDF formats, so you can choose whichever suits the way you like to sew.
- Printed pattern – Receive your pattern printed on durable white paper, along with a full-colour photo instruction booklet, delivered to your door.
- PDF pattern – Download your pattern instantly. Choose the A4/Letter version to print at home, the A0 version to print at a copyshop or pattern printing service, or the projector file to project directly onto your fabric. PDF files include layered sizes, so you can select only the size or sizes you need.
Not used a PDF pattern before? Our guide to how to use digital sewing patterns explains the different options and how to get started.
Every Bonnie pattern includes 15 sizes (UK 6–34 / US 2–30 / EUR 34–62) and our signature step-by-step photo instructions to help you sew with confidence.
Best fabrics for the Bonnie sewing pattern
One of the best things about Bonnie is how much the finished cardigan can change depending on your fabric choice. From chunky, cosy knits to lighter fabrics for layering, there are lots of ways to make the design your own.
Bonnie is designed for stretch knit fabrics, such as:
- Sweater knits
- Cable knits
- Ribbed knits
- Waffle knits
- Jacquard knits
- French terry
Choose a fabric that suits the look you’re after. A textured cable knit can give Bonnie a classic, cosy feel, while a ribbed or smoother knit creates a more understated everyday cardigan. A lightweight knit can work beautifully for the tie-front version.
A note about fabric stretch
It’s worth checking the stretch of your fabric before you start cutting. If your main fabric has less than 20% stretch, you’ll need to use ribbing for the neckband, button stands, hem band and cuffs to help these areas work as intended.
Planning to sew the tie-front version? A lightweight knit is a good choice, as thicker fabrics can make the ties bulky. If you’re unsure, try sewing a small test tie first to check how it looks and feels.
You’ll also need matching thread and the relevant fastenings for your chosen version. Check the Bonnie product page for the full fabric requirements and notions list before shopping.
Is the Bonnie sewing pattern beginner-friendly?
Bonnie is designed for confident beginners. If you’ve sewn a few simple garments and are ready to try something new, it’s a great opportunity to build your skills and add knit sewing to your repertoire.
The raglan sleeves make for a satisfying construction, while the neckband, cuffs and hem band help give your cardigan a neat finish. Our photo-rich instructions break the process down into manageable steps, so you can take your time and enjoy learning as you go.
Nervous about sewing with stretch fabrics?
If you’ve mostly sewn woven fabrics, working with knits can feel a little different at first. Stretchy fabrics can move or stretch as you sew, but choosing the right needle and stitch, practising on a scrap, and handling the fabric gently can all help.
An overlocker can be useful for sewing knit garments, but you don’t need one to get started. You can sew suitable knit fabrics on a regular sewing machine using a zigzag stitch (2.5-3 length x 1.5 wide) or stretch stitch.
Want to get more confident with your overlocker? Explore our Troubleshooting Overlocker Stitches guide for help with common stitch problems, or take a look at our Make Friends with an Overlocker or Serger online workshop to learn more about using your machine.
VIEW ALL BONNIE SEWING SUPPORT
Tips for a neat finish
A few small steps can make a real difference when sewing your first Bonnie:
- Choose the right needle. A suitable stretch or ballpoint needle can help prevent skipped stitches and damage to knitted fabric.
- Test your stitches. Try your zigzag, stretch or overlocker stitches on a double scrap of the same fabric before sewing your garment. This will give the chance to adjust the stitch length, width and thread tension if you need to.
- Practise the buttonholes. All knit fabrics behave differently, so practise your buttonholes (if you're making that version) on a scrap before tackling your real project. Check out our tips for sewing buttonholes on stretch knit fabrics.
And remember, you don’t have to get everything perfect first time. Practising on scraps and taking each step at your own pace is all part of learning a new skill.
What to wear with your Bonnie cardigan
Bonnie is made for layering, so it’s easy to work into the clothes you already love wearing.
Throw a cropped version over a dress, pair a hip-length cardigan with your favourite jeans, or wear it over a simple handmade top and trousers. It’s a useful extra layer for changing seasons and a lovely way to bring a handmade touch to everyday outfits.
Looking for more garments to sew for your handmade wardrobe?
Share your Bonnie makes!
We LOOOVE seeing what you make. Once you’ve sewn your Bonnie, share your finished cardigan on Instagram by tagging @TillyButtons and using the hashtag #SewingBonnie.
Whether you choose buttons or ties, puff sleeves or balloon sleeves, we can’t wait to see the fabrics, colours and combinations you come up with!
Happy sewing! xx
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Fabrics used:
- Minerva Core Range Chunky Cotton Sweater Knit Stretch Fabric Petrol
- Crochet Striped Fabric - Black & Cream and for the ties: Minerva Core Range Brushed Texture Rib Stretch Knit Fabric Black
- Minerva Core Range Brushed Texture Rib Stretch Knit Fabric Fuchsia
Models: Marcela Solarte and Rita Fitchett
Photographer: Jane Looker
Hair and make up: Louise Heywood
Sample sewist: Susan Young
