Rowan Tempt Cape Knitting Pattern

Rowan Tempt Knitted Cape and Poncho

What is Being Made

The Rowan Tempt is a luxurious knitted poncho designed by Lisa Richardson. This garment is crafted to fit bust measurements of 81–91 cm, 97–112 cm, or 117–127 cm, with corresponding finished widths of 104.5 cm, 126.5 cm, and 148 cm respectively. The poncho features a sophisticated construction with a neck opening and striped color detailing along the edges, making it an elegant layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Techniques Used

The Rowan Tempt is constructed using seamed and worked flat knitting techniques. The garment is knitted in flat pieces on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for precise shaping and control. The poncho is assembled through strategic seaming: the piece is folded in half at a marked point to create the right shoulder and overarm seam, then the row-end edges are joined to form the left shoulder and overarm seam. This construction method creates a seamless drape across the shoulders while maintaining structural integrity.

Stitches Used

The Rowan Tempt employs two primary stitch patterns:

• Stockinette Stitch (st st): Used for the main body of the poncho, creating a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-pattern texture on the right side
• Ribbed Stitch (rib): Applied at the cast-on edge and cast-off edge, as well as in the final rows before binding off. The rib pattern is worked as K2, P1, K1, P1, K3, repeating *P3, K3 to the last 5 stitches, then P1, K1, P1, K2, creating vertical lines that provide elasticity and a refined finish

The stitch pattern is set within the first 2 rows, with 5 edge stitches maintained in rib throughout while all other stitches transition to stockinette stitch.

Materials and Specifications

The Rowan Tempt is knitted using Pure Cashmere yarn in two colorways:

• Yarn A – Derby Grey (color 101): 8, 9, or 11 x 50-gram balls depending on size
• Yarn B – College Red (color 097): 1 x 50-gram ball for all sizes

The pattern is worked on 3¾mm (US size 5) needles, and the tension is measured at 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10 centimeters over stockinette stitch using these needles. The use of pure cashmere yarn provides exceptional softness, warmth, and a luxurious drape, making this poncho a premium garment. The striped detailing in College Red adds a sophisticated color accent to the Derby Grey base.

Design Features

The poncho incorporates several design elements that enhance both its aesthetic and functional appeal. The garment features a neck opening created through strategic marker placement at specific row intervals, allowing the wearer to position the poncho comfortably across the shoulders. The striped edging, created by alternating between Derby Grey and College Red yarns in the final rows, provides visual interest and a refined finishing touch. The ribbed edges frame the piece and contribute to its polished appearance while providing structure to prevent curling.