Pimpernel Poncho Cape Knitting Pattern

Pimpernel Poncho by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Pimpernel Poncho is an intermediate-level knitted cape-style garment designed to fit bust sizes from 81–127 cm (32–50 inches). This poncho features a sophisticated construction with a neckband, decorative cuffs, and side borders, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

This design employs several key knitting techniques that contribute to its elegant appearance and intermediate difficulty level:

• Sideways construction: Both the back and front panels are knitted sideways, which allows for interesting stitch pattern placement and simplified shaping.
• Yarn forward decreases: The pattern incorporates yarn forward (yfwd) stitches combined with slip-stitch decreases to create an openwork effect throughout the main fabric.
• Circular needle work: The neckband is worked in the round using circular needles, demonstrating seamless construction techniques.
• Ribbed edgings: Knit-purl ribbing is used for the cuffs and neckband to provide structure and elasticity at the garment edges.
• Garter stitch borders: Side borders are worked in garter stitch, offering a textured frame for the main pattern.
• Seaming methods: The pattern recommends back stitch or mattress stitch for joining shoulder and overarm seams, providing neat, durable construction.

Stitches Used

The Pimpernel Poncho utilizes a carefully selected range of fundamental and decorative stitches:

• Knit and purl stitches: The foundation of the main pattern, alternating to create texture and visual interest.
• Yarn forward (yfwd): Creates deliberate eyelet holes within the fabric, contributing to the openwork aesthetic.
• Slip stitch: Combined with yarn forward and knit stitches to form decorative decreases that shape the lace pattern.
• Lift slipped stitch over: A decrease technique that removes the slipped stitch over two knit stitches, integral to the pattern repeat.
• Ribbing (K2, P2): Used for neckband and cuff edgings to provide elasticity and a finished appearance.
• Garter stitch: Employed for side borders, created by knitting every row for a bumpy, textured finish.

Pattern Details and Sizing

The Pimpernel Poncho is available in five sizes: Small (81–86 cm bust), Medium (91–97 cm), Large (102–107 cm), Extra Large (112–117 cm), and Extra Extra Large (122–127 cm). The pattern is worked from a cast-on of 105–129 stitches depending on size, with the main body continuing for approximately 59–62 cm from the last increase row.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The Pimpernel Poncho is designed to be knitted in Rowan Kidsilk Haze, a luxurious blend yarn. The pattern requires 7 balls for sizes Small and Medium, and 8 balls for sizes Large, Extra Large, and Extra Extra Large. Each ball weighs 25 grams. The photographed version is shown in Cream 634, though Kidsilk Haze is available in numerous colorways.

Needles: The pattern calls for a combination of needle sizes to achieve proper tension and construction:

• One pair of 2¾mm (US 2, UK no. 12) needles for ribbed edgings and cuffs
• One pair of 3¼mm (US 3, UK no. 10) needles for the main body pattern
• Circular needles in 2¾mm (US 2): one 40 cm length and one 100 cm length for working the neckband in the round

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this intermediate project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 26 stitches and 36 rows to 10 centimeters, measured over the main stitch pattern using 3¼mm (US 3) needles. Knitters should always swatch