Lillian Poncho Cape Knitting Pattern

Lillian Poncho in Berroco Nomad

What Is Being Made

The Lillian Poncho is a cozy, wearable cape-style garment designed to drape elegantly around the shoulders and upper body. This poncho features a relaxed, comfortable fit with finished measurements of approximately 53 (57, 60½, 63½)" around the lower edge and 24¾ (26½, 28¼, 30½)" around the neck opening, with a length of 20". The poncho is offered in four sizes to accommodate different body types and preferences.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Lillian Poncho is worked sideways, meaning the piece is constructed horizontally rather than from top to bottom. This sideways construction method allows for unique shaping and visual interest in the finished garment. The poncho begins with a provisional cast-on, which creates a temporary edge that can be unraveled later to graft the ends together using the Kitchener stitch, creating a seamless join. Short rows are used strategically to shape the shoulders, creating a custom fit around the neck and upper body area. The piece is worked flat on circular needles rather than in the round, giving the crafter flexibility in construction.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Lillian Poncho is Garter stitch, which is created by knitting every row. Garter stitch produces a dense, textured fabric with horizontal ridges that look the same on both sides of the work. This classic stitch is beginner-friendly and creates a fabric with excellent drape and structure, making it ideal for a poncho design. The pattern also incorporates wrap and turn (w&t) techniques as part of the short-row shaping method used to contour the shoulders and neckline.

Yarn and Materials

The Lillian Poncho is designed to be worked in Berroco Nomad, a yarn produced by Berroco, Inc. The pattern calls for two colors: #9101 Cream as the main color (MC) and #9116 Cast Iron as the contrasting color (CC). Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 3 to 5 balls of the main color and 2 to 3 balls of the contrasting color, with each ball weighing 50 grams. The pattern recommends using the specified yarn to ensure accurate gauge and finished measurements.

Tools Required

• One 29" circular needle in size 10½ (6.50 mm)
• One spare circular needle in size 10 (6.00 mm) or smaller
• Waste yarn for the provisional cast-on
• Tapestry needle for finishing and grafting

Gauge and Skill Level

The pattern specifies a gauge of 11 stitches and 19 rows equals 4 inches in Garter stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining accurate finished measurements. The pattern is rated as Intermediate skill level, indicating that while the basic stitches are straightforward, the construction method (sideways knitting with short rows and provisional cast-on) requires some experience and understanding of intermediate knitting techniques. The Garter stitch itself is accessible to beginners, but the overall construction demands attention to detail and familiarity with techniques like wrapping stitches and grafting seams together.

Design Features

The Lillian Poncho showcases a two-color design using Cream and Cast Iron, creating visual contrast and interest in the finished garment. The short-row shaping ensures a custom fit around the shoulders and neckline, preventing the poncho from slipping off the wearer. The sideways construction allows for interesting color placement and pattern development as the piece grows horizontally across the body.