As February’s transitional days blend cool mornings with warmer afternoons in 2026, knitted vests and tanks are the perfect layering pieces—effortless over tees, shirts, or dresses for that polished yet comfortable vibe. These patterns range from classic argyle and cables to modern hoodies and openwork tanks, offering options for every skill level and season. We’ve curated 10 standout free (or mostly free) designs from reputable knitting sources, each critically reviewed for instructional quality, visuals, and accessibility. From beginner-friendly stockinette to intermediate cables and charts, these pieces are ideal for building your wardrobe or gifting. Grab your needles and layer up!
Frequently Asked Questions About Knitted Vests & Tanks
Dipping into sleeveless knits? Here’s a quick guide.
What are knitted vests and tanks?
Knitted vests are sleeveless tops (often with armhole shaping) for layering; tanks are similar but lighter and often open at the sides or with straps. Both are great for transitional weather and versatile styling.
What yarn is best for vests and tanks?
Worsted or sport-weight yarns like cotton blends or merino wool provide drape and breathability. Acrylic or plant fibers suit warmer days; wool adds coziness for cooler layers.
Are vest/tank patterns beginner-friendly?
Many are! Basic ones use stockinette and ribbing. More advanced include cables, short rows, or charts—videos and notes help bridge the gap.
How long does it take to knit a vest or tank?
Typically 10–30 hours, depending on size and yarn weight. Simple stockinette flies; cabled or charted designs take longer.
Can vests/tanks be worn year-round?
Yes! Lightweight cottons for spring/summer; wool for fall/winter layering. Adjust yarn for climate.
How do I size a knitted vest or tank?
Check finished bust/chest measurements and ease (positive for layering). Patterns include multiples—swatch gauge to adjust.
How do I finish armholes and necks neatly?
Pick up stitches for ribbing, use tubular bind-off, or graft. Blocking evens edges and enhances drape.
Our Top 10 Knitted Vest & Tank Patterns
We’ve critically explored each site for pattern depth, visuals, and user support, all free (or accessible) with strong instructions.
1. Lorelai Knit Vest by Marly Bird
Description: Cozy, size-inclusive vest with Stockinette Windows texture—relaxed fit, optional pockets, bottom-up seamed construction with tidy edgings.
Unique Features:
- Style: Textured “windows” with long-striping yarn.
- Stitches: 2×2 rib, Stockinette Windows (knit/purl combo), ssk decreases.
- Skill Level: Adventurous Beginner.
- Sizes: XS–5X (28–62″ bust, 2–4″ ease).
- Yarn/Needles: Red Heart Roll With It Melange (worsted), US 8 (5 mm) circulars.
Why You’ll Love It: Full written instructions with videos, schematics, and pocket notes—ad-supported free on blog; high-quality, detailed, and community-backed.
2. Trollabackarna Vest by Filcolana
Description: Inspired by a serene Swedish landscape—classic vest shape with textured details (specifics limited on overview page).
Unique Features:
- Style: Nordic-inspired simplicity.
- Stitches: Not detailed on main page (download required).
- Skill Level: Not specified.
- Sizes: XS–3XL.
- Yarn/Needles: Peruvian yarn (brand-specific).
Why You’ll Love It: Free multilingual downloads; clean, professional brand site—download for full details.
3. Spring League Sleeveless Hoodie by Two of Wands
Description: Sporty sleeveless hoodie with drawstring hood, V-insert neck, rolled hems, and relaxed fit—top-down flat construction.
Unique Features:
- Style: Athletic nostalgia with hood and vents.
- Stitches: Stockinette, ribbing, LT/RT traveling stitches, I-cord.
- Skill Level: Intermediate.
- Sizes: XS–4XL (10–12″ ease).
- Yarn/Needles: Lion Brand Color Theory (worsted), US 7/6 circulars.
Why You’ll Love It: Detailed with abbreviations and photos; free on blog, paid PDF available—clean, affiliate-linked site.
4. Argyle Sweater Vest by Originally Lovely
Description: Modern argyle motif vest with cables and lace—bottom-up in the round, flat shaping.
Unique Features:
- Style: Classic argyle with cable/lace.
- Stitches: Ribbing, argyle charts (cables, YO, decreases).
- Skill Level: Advanced.
- Sizes: XS–5X (36–68″ bust).
- Yarn/Needles: Lion Brand Coboo (DK), US 6/7 circulars.
Why You’ll Love It: Free on-site, paid PDF on Ravelry/Etsy—archived post with photos; clear for chart lovers.
5. Sand and Sky Tank by Universal Yarn
Description: Breezy tank with texture or lace (details limited on overview)—brand-specific.
Unique Features:
- Style: Light, airy summer tank.
- Stitches: Not detailed.
- Skill Level: Not specified.
- Sizes: Not specified.
- Yarn/Needles: Universal brand yarns.
Why You’ll Love It: Shop-focused; may require purchase or signup—professional but sparse on free preview.
6. Criss Cross Top by Purl Soho
Description: Bottom-up tank with reverse stockinette, ribbing, and simple cable cross at neck—split hem and shaping.
Unique Features:
- Style: Clean lines with cable detail.
- Stitches: Reverse stockinette, 1×1 rib, cable, short rows.
- Skill Level: Intermediate.
- Sizes: 34½–50½” chest.
- Yarn/Needles: Purl Soho Worsted Twist (merino), US 6 circulars.
Why You’ll Love It: Detailed with tutorials and 139 comments—high-quality free pattern on premium site.
7. Allies Vest by Knitty
Description: Knit/crochet hybrid tank with filet crochet hems/edges and stockinette body—bra-strap friendly.
Unique Features:
- Style: Mixed knit/crochet with filet borders.
- Stitches: Stockinette, filet dc, ribbing.
- Skill Level: Intermediate.
- Sizes: XS–5X.
- Yarn/Needles: Premier Cotton Fair (sport), US 4 needles + F hook.
Why You’ll Love It: Free on Knitty (reputable magazine)—structured with charts and photos.
8. Sophie Tee by Sophies Stitches
Description: Lightweight tee or tank (details limited on homepage)—likely simple summer knit.
Unique Features:
- Style: Basic tee.
- Stitches: Not detailed.
- Skill Level: Not specified.
- Sizes: Not specified.
- Yarn/Needles: Not detailed.
Why You’ll Love It: Wix site; may require navigation—limited preview.
9. Classic V-Neck Vest by zNooi Craft Corner
Description: Bottom-up in-the-round Irish Moss stitch vest with V-neck shaping and grafted shoulders.
Unique Features:
- Style: Textured moss with V-neck.
- Stitches: Irish Moss (k1,p1 repeat).
- Skill Level: Intermediate.
- Sizes: S-M to 2XL-3XL.
- Yarn/Needles: Fingering held double, 5mm circulars.
Why You’ll Love It: Free with schematics and comments—clear and adjustable.
10. 6-Stitch Plait Unisex Vest for Kids by Learn Knitting Stitches
Description: Kid-sized vest with side plait cables and ribbing—unisex stockinette body.
Unique Features:
- Style: Cable panels on sides.
- Stitches: Stockinette, 6-stitch plait cable.
- Skill Level: Intermediate.
- Sizes: Child 22–27″ chest.
- Yarn/Needles: Worsted, US 6/8 needles.
Why You’ll Love It: Free PDF by size; simple site with photos—great for kids.
Why Knitted Vests & Tanks Are Trending This Season
In early 2026, vests and tanks are everywhere, layering essentials for transitional weather, with cables, textures, and modern fits dominating feeds. These patterns blend classics with fresh twists, perfect for mindful making and wardrobe building.
Cast On and Layer Up!
These 10 vests and tanks from the textured Lorelai to the cabled kid Plait are your spring-ready inspiration. Pick a yarn, dive in, and craft pieces that transition seasons.
Which one’s calling your needles? Share your progress in the comments or tag us we’re excited to see your layers! For more, check our market bags or blankets