Finding free patterns to sew up is so marvelous. Especially when the pattern is a quick, easy sew that turns out to be a wardrobe staple. I recently added the Monroe Turtleneck to my list of free sewing patterns and it is quickly becoming a favorite.
Free Turtleneck Pattern Details
This free turtleneck pattern features a boxy fit with a turtleneck that is slightly slouchy and can be worn folded down or straight up. There are several sizes within each option and the free PDF pattern can be printed in Size 1, 2, or 3. Both long and 3/4 sleeve options are included but I chose to create cuffs instead. I wrote a tutorial for adding cuffs if you would like to make this change as well.
The Monroe Turtleneck is available free to download on the Tessuti Fabrics Website. It is the same basic shape and fit as their fan-favorite Mandy Boat Tee, also available for free.
What Fabric is Best?
This free pattern is designed for knits. When shopping for knits it can be quite confusing if you are new to sewing. If you pick something without enough stretch, you will be unable to put the neck over your head. Some great choices for this pattern would be :
Sweater Knits – I used a Shimmer Chenille and Alpaca Sweater Knit for the two posted and I love them both.
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Double Brushed Poly – This fabric is very warm, if you get hot easily you should avoid it
French Terry (check stretch first)
PDF Pattern Details & Modifications
This turtleneck pattern is available in 3 sizes. It is an oversized boxy fit so you may find you want to size down. There are no layers or AO/Projector files available for this pattern. You will have to print, tape, and cut out your size. However, this is not a huge pattern so it is fairly quick.
**Did you know you could try this?** Use a glass door or window to tape your PDF Pattern. Makes it easy to match up lines and trace sizing.
Modifications to Monroe Turtleneck
I followed the pattern as written and for my size as intended but I did make one small change to the sleeve. Since I prefer a sleeve cuff, I drafted my own sleeve cuff and modified the sleeve pattern piece to work with the cuff. I initially made this change because I was running short on fabric, but then decided I actually liked it better this way and made the same alteration on the chenille version.
If you would like to see how to add cuffs to a pattern, please check out this tutorial.
How to Easily
Add Cuffs to
a Sleeve Pattern
Speaking of modifications, I did have to make one unintended change to the Alpaca Sweater Knit version. I so badly wanted to use this amazing fabric but for some reason, I only ordered a yard. This put me just a tad bit short on fabric so I patched in a piece near the armpit. Fortunately, it is mostly hidden under my arm, but sometimes you just have to make it work 🙂
**Did you know that adding cuffs to your sleeve can actually help when you are short on fabric? It is a great way to get a long sleeve when there is not enough continuous yardage for the sleeve piece. See my adding cuffs tutorial to find out how to add them to your pattern. **
Supplies Used on the Monroe Turtleneck
The shimmer chenille fabric is gorgeous but I didn’t have an exact color match on my thread. Luckily I keep some of these variegated thread spools around for times like this. I was amazed at how well it blended in. I used my favorite honeycomb stitch and stabilized with my secret weapon stretchy hem tape. It’s really a must-do – don’t skip this step on your knit hems.
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Multi-color thread 
Honeycomb Stitch 
Soft n Stretchy Hem Tape
The hem tape keeps the knit fabric stretchy but gives the area stability for smooth hems. You just finger press on one side, pull off paper backing, then fold up hem and press to activate the glue.
Stick it on 
Peel the backing 
Press with iron 
Finished Hem with honeycomb stitch from inside
Can a Beginner Sew the Monroe Turtleneck?
Yes, this free pattern is very beginner friendly. It features a forgiving fit so no need to stress about fitting. The seam construction is minimal. You sew the shoulders, turtleneck and hem. That’s it! If you want to add cuffs like I did there will be more construction details to tackle. Overall this is a very basic and simple sew that will provide you a staple to add to your wardrobe.
Add this great free turtleneck pattern onto your to-sew list and make sure you check out this giant list of amazing sewing patterns available for FREE. You will find everything from kids to adults, lingerie, accessories, and more.
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About 18 years ago I decided to teach myself how to sew. Long before blogs and resources available today which meant it was often disastrous. But I never gave up because I loved it so much. Today I love helping others get started on their own sewing journey. You can read more about my family and I