Arisha Poncho Cape Knitting Pattern

Arisha Poncho in Berroco Catena

What is Being Made

The Arisha Poncho is an oversized women's knit poncho designed by Amy Christoffers and featured in Berroco Booklet #391. This garment is crafted as an intermediate-level knitting project that combines flat and circular knitting techniques. The poncho is available in three size ranges: XS/S, M/L, and 1X/2X, with finished bust measurements of 52, 58, and 64 inches respectively. All sizes share a consistent length of 30 inches. The design features approximately 16–18 inches of ease, making it intentionally oversized for a relaxed, comfortable fit.

Techniques Used

This poncho employs a sophisticated construction method that transitions between flat and circular knitting. The back and front sections are worked flat and separately to the top of the side slits, then joined together and worked in the round over the center section. The sections are later separated again for continued construction. This hybrid approach allows for precise shaping while maintaining the flowing silhouette characteristic of a poncho. Knitters must be comfortable managing stitch markers, transferring stitches to waste yarn, and transitioning between different needle types and sizes during the project.

Stitches Used

• Ribbing (K1, P1): A foundational 1x1 rib pattern creates the initial setup, worked for 2 inches from the beginning to establish structure and elasticity at the edges.
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch throughout the main body of the poncho, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing a smooth, classic fabric.
• Garter Stitch Elements: The pattern incorporates [K1, P1] and [P1, K1] sequences at the edges to frame the stockinette sections and create defined borders.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

Yarn: Berroco Catena is the specified yarn for this project. This yarn is available in 50-gram balls, and the poncho requires 10, 11, or 12 balls depending on size selection. The sample shown was worked in colorway #5406 Quartz. Knitters are advised to use the yarn called for in the instructions to ensure proper gauge and finished dimensions.

Needles: The pattern requires multiple needle sizes to achieve the correct gauge and construction. A 29-inch circular needle in size 10 (6.00 mm) and size 11 (8.00 mm) are essential, along with a 16-inch circular needle in size 10 (6.00 mm) for working smaller circumferences. A spare straight needle in size 11 (8.00 mm) is also needed for certain sections of the pattern.

Notions: One stitch marker is required to track pattern repeats and section divisions. Waste yarn must be available to hold stitches temporarily during the construction process when sections are set aside or transferred.

Gauge and Construction Notes

The pattern specifies a gauge of 14 stitches and 20 rows equaling 4 inches when worked in stockinette stitch on the larger needle (size 11). Checking gauge before beginning is strongly recommended to ensure the finished garment meets the intended measurements. The poncho begins with a ribbed cuff worked on the smaller needle, then transitions to the larger needle for the main body. Knitters should note that this garment's generous ease means careful size selection is important—choosing a size based on desired finished bust measurement rather than typical garment sizing is advised.