Berroco Marca Ruana Cape Knitting Pattern

Berroco Marca Ruana: Knitted Cape and Poncho Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Marca Ruana is an intermediate-level knitted cape and poncho designed by Amy Palmer. This versatile garment measures approximately 60 inches long by 50 inches wide, making it a generous, wearable wrap suitable for layering over various outfits. The design is worked in a flat construction using circular needles, despite the garment's substantial size, allowing knitters to manage the large stitch count comfortably throughout the project.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Marca Ruana employs flat knitting as its primary construction method. Although circular needles are utilized, they serve as tools to accommodate the large number of stitches rather than for working in the round. This approach is common in flat garment construction where needle length is essential for comfort and control. The pattern incorporates color changes during construction, transitioning from the main color to contrasting colors at specific measurements to create visual interest and design definition.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Marca Ruana features a distinctive Pattern Stitch that repeats over a multiple of 3 stitches across 6 rows. The stitch pattern combines fundamental knitting techniques with a decorative eyelet element:

• Rows 1 and 3 (right side): Knit across all stitches
• Rows 2 and 4: Purl across all stitches
• Row 5: A special decrease-and-yarn-over sequence—knit 3 stitches together without dropping them from the left needle, create a yarn over, then knit the same 3 stitches together again, repeating this combination across the entire row
• Row 6: Purl across all stitches

This pattern stitch creates an open, textured fabric with decorative eyelets that contribute to the garment's elegant appearance. The decrease-and-yarn-over technique maintains stitch count while producing the characteristic openwork effect.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Marca Ruana pattern calls for Berroco Modern Cotton DK yarn in three coordinating colors:

• Point Judith (MC) – 6 hanks of 100 grams each, serving as the main color
• Rocky Point (CC1) – 3 hanks of 100 grams each, used as the primary contrasting color
• Piper (CC2) – 1 hank of 100 grams, used as an accent color

Berroco Modern Cotton DK is a durable, breathable yarn suitable for garments that require structure and drape. The pattern requires circular needles in size 8 (5.00 mm)—specifically, one 48-inch needle and one 29-inch needle to manage the various stitch counts throughout construction. An optional spare size 8 needle may be helpful for managing stitches during transitions.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 28 rows equals 4 inches when worked in the Pattern Stitch. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished garment meets the intended dimensions. The pattern notes emphasize that taking time to verify gauge prevents potential sizing issues. Once complete, the garment is finished by weaving in all ends and blocking as desired, which helps even out the texture and set the final shape.

Skill Level and Designer

Rated as Intermediate difficulty, the Marca Ruana is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle larger projects and color changes. The pattern was designed by Amy Palmer, a member of the Berroco design team who brings inspiration from her transition from Colorado's mountains to Rhode Island's coastlines.