Sierra Poncho Cape Knitting Pattern

Sierra Poncho in Berroco Summer Sesame

What is Being Made

The Sierra is a dolman sleeve poncho designed by Margaux Hufnagel. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a relaxed, flowing garment with dropped sleeves that drape elegantly from the shoulders. The poncho features a fitted neckline and waist with generous ease for comfortable layering. Available in multiple sizes ranging from 40" to 72" waist circumference, the finished length is 21 inches, making it a versatile piece suitable for various body types and styling preferences.

Construction and Techniques

The Sierra poncho is knit side to side in two separate pieces, which are then seamed together at the shoulder and lower edge. This construction method allows for controlled shaping and ease of assembly. After the front and back pieces are completed and joined, stitches are picked up and knit around the neck edge to create a finished neckline. This pick-up-and-knit technique ensures a polished, professional edge that complements the overall design. The side-to-side construction also provides flexibility in adjusting fit and length during the knitting process.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Sierra showcases a beautiful lace pattern as its primary decorative element. The lace pattern is worked over a multiple of 6 stitches plus 7, creating an 8-row repeat. The pattern incorporates classic lace techniques including:

• Yarn overs (yo) that create decorative eyelets and openwork
• Slip, knit two together, pass slipped stitch over (sl 1, k2tog, psso), a centered double decrease that forms the characteristic lace motifs
• Stockinette stitch (St st) used in the initial foundation rows before transitioning to the lace pattern
• Knit and purl stitches worked in alternating rows to establish the lace's dimensional texture

The lace pattern alternates between knit rows and purl rows, with the decreases and yarn overs strategically placed to create an elegant, openwork fabric. This stitch combination produces a lightweight, breathable garment perfect for the yarn weight and intended use.

Yarn and Materials

The Sierra is designed to be knit in Berroco Summer Sesame, a yarn specifically chosen for its suitability to the lace pattern and poncho construction. The pattern calls for 4 to 7 balls of Berroco Summer Sesame (100 grams per ball), depending on the size selected. The sample shown uses color #5238 Orchid. Summer Sesame is a lightweight yarn that works beautifully in lace applications, providing excellent stitch definition while maintaining drape.

The project requires two circular needles in size 7 / 4.5 mm: one 16-inch needle and one 24-inch needle. The 16-inch needle is used for working the narrower sections, while the 24-inch needle accommodates the wider body sections. Circular needles are essential for this construction method, allowing the knitter to work back and forth on the needle while maintaining all stitches. Additionally, one stitch marker is needed to track pattern repeats and construction points.

Gauge and Sizing

The recommended gauge for the Sierra is 19 stitches and 31 rows over 4 inches in the lace pattern. Achieving proper gauge is critical for this project, as it ensures the finished measurements are accurate and the garment drapes as intended. The pattern recommends 6 to 8 inches of positive ease, meaning the finished garment should measure 6 to 8 inches larger than the wearer's actual measurements for comfortable fit and proper poncho silhouette.