Blue Sky Fibers Carver Capelet Knitting Pattern

Blue Sky Fibers Carver Capelet: Modern Color-Blocked Knit Capelet

What is Being Made

The Carver Capelet is a versatile and modern color-blocked capelet designed by Jane Veitenheimer. This top-down knit garment features a contemporary aesthetic with a beautifully fluid drape, making it a stylish addition to any wardrobe. The capelet is available in three sizes: Women's XS/S with 32" chest and 48" hem circumference, M/L with 39½" chest and 59¼" hem circumference, and XL/XXL with 47" chest and 70½" hem circumference. The finished length measures 21½" to 27¼" depending on size.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Carver Capelet is constructed using top-down knitting, a method that allows you to begin at the yoke and work downward toward the hem. This approach eliminates the need for seaming, creating a seamless garment with smooth construction throughout. The pattern employs color blocking, incorporating two distinct yarn colors to create visual interest and design definition. Strategic increases are worked throughout the yoke section to shape the capelet and achieve proper fit across the chest and body.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Carver Capelet utilizes fundamental knitting stitches suitable for an advanced beginner skill level. The yoke is worked primarily in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The lower portion of the capelet features garter stitch, a reversible textured pattern created by knitting every row. Increase techniques include kfb (knit front and back), a common method for adding stitches while maintaining fabric integrity. Stitch markers are used strategically to track pattern sections and increase points throughout construction.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Carver Capelet is designed for use with Suri Merino, a worsted-weight yarn composed of 60% Baby Suri Alpaca and 40% Fine Merino. Each 100-gram skein yields 164 yards. The yarn quantities required vary by size: the XS/S size requires 2 hanks of color A and 4 hanks of color B; the M/L size requires 3 hanks of color A and 5 hanks of color B; and the XL/XXL size requires 3 hanks of color A and 6 hanks of color B. The colorway shown features Fog (color A, No. 413) paired with Dusk (color B, No. 418).

Construction requires a 40-inch circular needle in size 9 (5.5mm), or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. Additional tools include a stitch marker for tracking pattern sections and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Gauge and Fit

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. In stockinette stitch, the pattern calls for 17 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches. In garter stitch, the gauge is 17 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches. Maintaining these gauge measurements ensures the capelet will fit as designed and drape appropriately.

Yarn Characteristics and Benefits

Suri Merino is prized for its exceptional qualities. The blend of Baby Suri Alpaca and Fine Merino creates a yarn that is both warm and soft, providing comfort and wearability. The fiber composition contributes to the capelet's beautifully fluid drape, allowing the garment to fall gracefully on the body. This luxurious fiber choice elevates the finished piece into a sophisticated accessory suitable for various occasions and seasons.