Rini Capelet Knitting Pattern

Rini Capelet in Berroco Macro

What Is Being Made

The Rini Capelet is a knitted shoulder piece designed by Emily Nora O'Neil. This intermediate-level capelet features a fitted neckline and a gracefully flared lower edge, creating an elegant layering garment. The finished capelet measures approximately 40 inches around the lower edge, 18 inches around the neck opening, and 18 inches in length, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

This capelet employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The pattern begins with a circular cast-on worked in the round using circular needles, which eliminates the need for seaming. Decreasing techniques are central to the capelet's construction, with strategic placement of slip-slip-knit (SSK) and knit-two-together (k2tog) decreases that shape the neckline while maintaining the pattern integrity. The design incorporates stitch markers to track decrease points and pattern sections, essential for managing the shaping across multiple decrease rounds. Knitters will transition from a longer circular needle to a shorter one as the stitch count diminishes, a practical technique for managing smaller circumferences comfortably.

Stitches Used

• Knit through the back loop (K1TBL): Creates a twisted stitch that adds texture and definition to the ribbed pattern
• Purl (p1): Works in alternation with K1TBL to establish the foundational pattern stitch
• Slip-slip-knit (SSK): A left-leaning decrease used strategically at decrease points
• Knit two together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease paired with SSK for balanced shaping
• Pattern stitch (Pat St): The alternating K1TBL and p1 combination maintains consistency throughout the piece as it decreases

Materials and Gauge

This capelet requires 2 hanks of Berroco Macro yarn in color #6752 Orca, with each hank weighing 250 grams. The project calls for circular knitting needles in size 19 (15.00 mm) in two lengths: a 29-inch needle for the initial cast-on and body work, and a 16-inch needle for working the narrower neckline section. Six stitch markers are needed, with one in a contrasting color to denote the beginning of the round.

The gauge for this pattern is 7 stitches and 8 rounds equal 4 inches in pattern stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential before beginning, as it ensures the finished capelet will have the correct measurements and drape. The pattern emphasizes checking gauge to save time and prevent potential sizing issues.

Construction Overview

The capelet is constructed seamlessly in the round from the lower edge upward to the neckline. After casting on 68 stitches, the first 10 rounds establish a ribbed cuff using the K1TBL and purl combination. The shaping begins with two distinct decrease rounds that reduce stitches from 68 to 64, then from 64 to 60. The second decrease round is then repeated every other round for 8 additional times, gradually reducing the circumference to 28 stitches at the neckline. The piece is worked even in the established pattern stitch until it reaches 18 inches in length, then bound off. Finishing involves weaving in ends and blocking as desired to enhance the final appearance and ensure proper dimensions.