Berroco Cape Knitting Pattern

Berroco Bonassola Cape and Poncho

What is Being Made

The Bonassola is an intermediate-level knitted cape and poncho designed by Åsa Buchta. This garment is available in four size ranges: S-M, L-XL, 2X-3X, and 4X-5X, offering versatility for different body types. The finished width ranges from 33 inches to 49 inches, with body circumference between side seams spanning from 48 inches to 80 inches. All sizes share a consistent length of 26 inches, making this a one-length design that works across multiple size categories. The garment is shown in the second size (L-XL) in the pattern documentation.

Construction and Assembly Method

The Bonassola is constructed using a piece-by-piece knitting method rather than being worked in the round as a single continuous piece. The back and front sections are knitted separately and then seamed together at the shoulders and sides. The side seams are positioned 4 inches in from the edge, creating a structured fit while maintaining the flowing nature of a cape or poncho silhouette. This construction approach allows for precise shaping and pattern placement throughout the garment.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The pattern employs several foundational knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. Garter stitch (knitting every row) is used to create the initial ribbed edge, which provides structure and prevents rolling. Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric of the garment, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. The pattern also incorporates cable and textured stitch patterns, specifically a repeating [p8, k8] pattern that adds visual interest and dimension to the piece. Shaping techniques include strategic bind-offs for neckline construction and the use of stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points throughout the knitting process. Gauge is critical to this design, measured at 18 stitches and 26 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needle size, and should be verified after blocking to ensure accurate finished measurements.

Yarn and Needles

The Bonassola is designed to be worked with Berroco Vernazza yarn, a worsted-weight yarn sold in 50-gram balls. The pattern requires between 13 and 19 balls depending on the size selected, with color #10630 Sigri specified for the featured version. Berroco Vernazza is a quality yarn choice that produces the correct gauge and drape for this design.

The pattern calls for circular needles in two sizes to accommodate different sections and stitch counts. Size 6 (4 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches are used for casting on and the initial garter stitch border, as well as in a shorter 16-inch length for smaller stitch counts. Size 8 (5 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches are used for the main body of the garment worked in stockinette and patterned stitches. The size difference between needles allows for proper gauge control and comfortable working of different stitch counts. Four stitch markers are required to track pattern repeats and construction points throughout the knitting process. Proper gauge measurement after blocking is emphasized as essential for achieving the intended finished measurements.