Malabrigo Lavender Cape Knitting Pattern

Malabrigo Lavender Line Play Poncho

What is Being Made

The Malabrigo Lavender is a flowing poncho designed by Jennifer Shiels Toland, featured in Book 17: Ponchos & Familia - Flowing Garments In Merino Yarns. This garment is a versatile layering piece sized for Small/Medium, Large/X-Large, and XX-Large, with finished widths ranging from 38 to 46 inches and lengths from 19 to 21 inches from shoulder. The poncho offers a relaxed, elegant silhouette suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Techniques Used

The Malabrigo Lavender poncho is constructed using seamless knitting and worked flat construction methods. The garment features alternating pattern sections that create visual interest and texture throughout the design. The poncho is worked from the top down, beginning with a set-up row and progressing through multiple stitch pattern sections before shaping the neck opening. This construction approach allows for easy customization and fitting adjustments during the knitting process.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates several key stitch techniques:

• Brioche Stitch: A decorative and elastic stitch that creates a luxurious, dimensional texture. The brioche section is worked over two rows, utilizing brioche knit (brk) and yarn over (sl1yo) techniques, and is repeated until the section measures approximately 2 inches.
• Garter Stitch: A fundamental knit stitch that provides structure and stability. The garter sections are worked for approximately 2 inches between brioche sections, creating a balanced rhythm in the pattern.
• Knit and Slip Stitches: The pattern uses standard knit stitches combined with strategic slip stitches and yarn overs to create the brioche texture and maintain stitch definition throughout the garment.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Malabrigo Lavender poncho is crafted from Arroyo by Malabrigo, a superwash merino wool yarn. Each hank contains 3½ ounces (100 grams) and provides approximately 335 yards (306 meters) of yardage. The pattern requires 7 to 8 hanks depending on the size selected, with the color specified as #684 Camaleon. This merino wool yarn offers softness, breathability, and easy care properties ideal for a wearable poncho.

The pattern calls for Size 4 (3.5mm) circular needles. A 40-inch (100cm) circular needle is used as the primary needle for the main body of the poncho, while a spare 32-inch (80cm) circular needle or waste yarn is recommended for holding stitches during the neck opening shaping. A removeable stitch marker is also needed to track pattern repeats and shaping points.

Skill Level and Pattern Structure

The Malabrigo Lavender is rated as a Beginner to Easy/Intermediate skill level pattern, making it accessible to knitters with foundational knowledge. The pattern provides clear gauge information to ensure proper fit, and the straightforward stitch repeats combined with the flat, seamless construction method make this an excellent project for developing brioche stitch proficiency while creating a beautiful, wearable garment.