Berroco Nicolet Cape Knitting Pattern

Berroco Nicolet Capelet: Striped Top-Down Knit

What Is Being Made

The Berroco Nicolet is an intermediate-level knitted capelet designed by Amy Christoffers. This garment is a versatile layering piece that drapes from the shoulders, available in four graduated sizes with lower edge measurements ranging from 66½ inches to 82½ inches (169 to 209.5 cm). The capelet features a fitted neckline measuring 26½ inches (67.5 cm) and lengths varying from 18 to 22½ inches (45.5 to 57 cm) measured down the center front including the neckband.

Construction Technique

The Nicolet is worked in the round from the neck down, a top-down construction method that allows for easy fitting and customization. This approach begins at the neckline and expands outward toward the lower edge, giving knitters the ability to try on the garment as it develops and adjust the final length as desired. The capelet is worked using the magic loop technique with a 40-inch or longer circular needle, though alternative circular needle options (16-inch and 32-inch circulars) are provided for knitters who prefer not to use magic loop.

Stitch Techniques and Pattern Details

The Nicolet incorporates several key knitting techniques:

• Fisherman's Rib: The primary stitch pattern used throughout the capelet, worked at a gauge of 12 stitches and 17 rounds per 4 inches (10 cm). Fisherman's Rib is a textured, elastic stitch that creates a thick, cushioned fabric with excellent drape and recovery.
• K1rb (Knit One Row Below): A special abbreviation used in the pattern, where the knitter inserts the needle into the stitch in the row below the one currently on the needle, creating the characteristic texture of Fisherman's Rib.
• Tubular Cast-On: The neckband begins with a tubular cast-on method, which creates a seamless, professional-looking finished edge at the neck opening.
• Striping: The capelet features color changes worked simultaneously with increases, creating horizontal stripes throughout the piece using multiple yarn colors.
• Ribbed Neckband: The neckband is worked in alternating knit and purl stitches (K1, P1 rib) for the first 3 inches (7.5 cm), providing elasticity and a neat finish at the neck edge.

Yarn and Materials

The Nicolet is designed to be knitted with Berroco Mochi yarn, a premium fiber choice. The pattern calls for three colors: Blueberry (#3223) as the main color, with Green Tea (#3208) and Ice (#3206) as contrast colors. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 1 to 2 balls of the main color and 1 ball each of the two contrast colors (each ball weighs 50 grams).

Essential notions include a size 9 (5.5 mm) circular needle measuring 40 inches (100 cm) or longer for the magic loop method, two stitch markers in different colors to track pattern sections, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends. The gauge is critical for proper fit: knitters must achieve 12 stitches and 17 rounds measuring 4 inches (10 cm) in Fisherman's Rib before beginning the project.

Skill Level and Pattern Complexity

Rated as an intermediate project, the Nicolet requires familiarity with circular needle techniques, working in the round, and reading pattern instructions that involve simultaneous increases and color changes. The use of special abbreviations like K1rb and techniques such as tubular cast-on and Fisherman's Rib make this an engaging project for knitters looking to expand their technical skills beyond basic stockinette stitch.