Classic Elite Yarns Viewpoints A Time to Crochet Pattern

Ravenna Poncho by Classic Elite Yarns

What Is Being Made

Ravenna is a sophisticated crochet poncho featuring an integrated ribbed turtleneck collar. Originally published in A Time to Crochet collection, this design combines textured cables with openwork sections to create a layered, dimensional garment. The poncho is constructed as a single continuous piece worked horizontally across, then split at the neckline and rejoined to complete the finished garment.

Construction Method and Techniques

This poncho employs a side-to-side construction technique, meaning the piece is worked from one side edge to the opposite side edge in horizontal rows rather than from top to bottom. This approach allows for seamless integration of the cable and lace patterns across the width of the garment.

The primary techniques used include:

• Cable work: Created using front post treble crochet stitches (fptr) that cross over one another, forming the characteristic twisted cable texture. The cables are spaced and separated by chain-space openwork sections.
• Lace and openwork: Chain-6 spaces (ch-6 sp) create airy, open sections throughout the cable pattern, providing visual contrast and allowing the garment to drape elegantly.
• Post stitches: Front post double crochet (fpdc) and back post double crochet (bpdc) stitches are used extensively to create texture and definition, particularly in the ribbed turtleneck collar.
• Ribbed collar construction: The turtleneck is worked in the round using alternating front post and back post stitches, creating a classic ribbed texture that provides structure and stretch around the neck opening.

Stitches Used

The pattern relies on fundamental crochet stitches executed with post variations:

• Double crochet (dc)
• Front post double crochet (fpdc)
• Back post double crochet (bpdc)
• Front post treble crochet (fptr)
• Chain stitch (ch)
• Slip stitch (sl st)

The Cable Pattern repeats across a multiple of 12 stitches plus 10 additional stitches. The pattern is worked over 4 rows before repeating, with the cable cross occurring on Row 3. The Collar Rib pattern works over an even number of stitches and alternates between two rounds to create the ribbed texture.

Materials and Gauge

This project is designed to be worked with Classic Elite Yarns yarn and crochet hooks of varying sizes. The pattern requires adjusting hook size as you progress through different sections to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics.

Gauge specifications:

• Collar pattern: 17 stitches = 4 inches when worked with the largest hook, blocked
• Cable pattern: 1 pattern repeat (consisting of a 6-front post double crochet group, a chain-6 space, and 4 rows) = 2¾ inches wide by 1¾ inches tall when worked with the smallest hook, blocked

Achieving accurate gauge is emphasized as essential for proper fit and finished dimensions. Blocking is recommended after completion to set the stitch definition and ensure even fabric texture.

Design Details

The Ravenna poncho showcases how post stitches and cable techniques can be combined with openwork to create visual interest and texture variation. The side-to-side construction method allows the cables and lace sections to flow horizontally across the garment, creating a unique directional design. The ribbed turtleneck provides both functional warmth and a polished finishing detail that frames the neckline.