Rowan Cape Knitting Pattern

Rowan Cape by Quail Studio

What is Being Made

The Rowan Cape is a versatile layering piece designed as a one-size-fits-all garment with dimensions of 104cm (41 inches) in width and 90cm (35½ inches) in length. This cape features a shaped neckline and front opening, making it a practical and stylish addition to any wardrobe. The design also includes a coordinating poncho option that can be created using the same techniques and materials.

Knitting Techniques

This project is worked using seamless construction on circular needles, with the main cape body knitted flat (back and forth in rows) rather than in the round. The garment features striped colorwork created by alternating between two coordinating yarn colors throughout the pattern. The neckline and front opening are shaped through strategic increases and decreases, while the finished edges are completed with an i-cord cast-off, a decorative and durable edging technique that creates a neat, professional finish.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (st st): The primary stitch throughout the entire cape, creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Knit and slip stitches: Used in the i-cord cast-off technique for a decorative edge finish
• Increases and decreases: Applied at the shaped edges to create the neckline and front opening shaping

Stripe Pattern

The cape features a carefully planned striped design that alternates between two yarns. The pattern includes sections of solid color work followed by narrow stripes, with the striping becoming more frequent in the upper portion of the garment where the neckline shaping occurs. This creates visual interest while maintaining the garment's elegant silhouette.

Materials and Yarn

The Rowan Cape is designed to be knitted using Rowan Brushed Fleece yarn, a soft and luxurious fiber. The pattern requires:

• Yarn A (Cove 251): 8 balls of 50gm each
• Yarn B (Cairn 263): 5 balls of 50gm each

The yarn choice of Brushed Fleece provides a plush, comfortable texture ideal for a garment worn close to the body.

Needles and Gauge

The project requires a 6mm (US 10) circular needle measuring at least 140cm in length to accommodate the width of the cast-on stitches. The recommended tension is 13 stitches and 19 rows to 10cm (4 inches) measured over stockinette stitch using 6mm needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for the cape to reach its intended finished dimensions.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Skill Level 2, indicating it is suitable for knitters with some experience beyond absolute beginners. The techniques required—including working on circular needles, managing color changes, shaping with increases and decreases, and executing an i-cord cast-off—are intermediate-level skills.

Poncho Option

The pattern also includes instructions for creating a coordinating poncho using the same yarn and needles. The poncho is knitted sideways (horizontally across the width) and begins with a cast-on of 234 stitches worked back and forth in rows. Like the cape, it features stockinette stitch throughout with striped sections in alternating colors, and is finished with an i-cord cast-off along the cast-on edge for a coordinated look.

Finishing

The completed cape requires pressing and finishing according to the detailed instructions provided in the pattern's information pages, ensuring a polished, professional appearance.