Stacy Charles Fine Yarns Donna Poncho Top Knitting Pattern

Donna Poncho Top by Teresa Chorzepa

What Is Being Made

The Donna Poncho Top is a contemporary knitted poncho designed for relaxed, layered styling. This garment is constructed as a poncho-style cape that drapes elegantly over the shoulders. The design features an open neckline and open sides, creating a versatile piece that works as both a lightweight layer and a statement accessory. Available in three sizes—Small/Medium, Large/XL, and 2X/3X—the poncho accommodates a range of body types with finished widths of 24, 25½, or 27 inches and lengths of 18, 19¾, or 21½ inches respectively.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Donna Poncho Top is worked flat on straight needles in two identical pieces that are later sewn together at the shoulders. This sideways construction method allows for interesting color blocking and pattern placement. The poncho is worked horizontally, meaning stitches are cast on along what will become the width of the finished piece. Each piece is worked from one side to the other before the two sections are joined, leaving the neck opening and side edges open for the characteristic poncho silhouette. When changing between colors, yarns are twisted together to prevent holes from forming in the fabric.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

This design incorporates two primary stitch patterns that create visual interest and textural variation:

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The main body of the poncho is worked in Stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric that forms the central panel. This stitch is worked over the middle stitches of each row.
• Seed Stitch (Seed st): A textured, reversible stitch pattern used for the borders and edging. Seed stitch is worked as a multiple of 2 stitches plus 1, creating a bumpy, woven appearance. This stitch frames the edges of the poncho and is used for the bind-off edge, adding a finished, professional look to the garment.

The pattern combines these stitches strategically: 2 stitches of Seed stitch are maintained at each edge, with Stockinette stitch filling the center section. This creates a bordered effect that prevents curling and adds structural definition to the piece.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Donna Poncho Top is designed to be knitted with Stacy Charles Fine Yarns NINA, a yarn from Tahki Stacy Charles Inc. The pattern calls for two coordinating colors:

• Color #28 Midnight Blue (A): 3 balls for all sizes
• Color #01 Smoke (B): 2 balls for Small/Medium, 3 balls for Large/XL and 2X/3X

The project requires one pair of size 9 (5.5mm) needles or the size needed to obtain the correct gauge. A yarn needle is also necessary for finishing and seaming the two pieces together at the shoulders.

Gauge and Sizing Information

The pattern is designed to be worked at a gauge of 18 stitches and 22 rows equal 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for the poncho to fit properly and drape as intended. The pattern includes detailed finishing instructions, including blocking to measurements, which helps achieve professional results and ensures the pieces are the correct dimensions before seaming.

Design Features

The two-color construction creates visual interest through the combination of midnight blue and smoke yarns. The color blocking occurs during the cast-on process, with different colors cast on separately to create distinct sections. The open neckline and side construction make this poncho a versatile layering piece that can be worn over various outfits. The Seed stitch borders provide both aesthetic appeal and functional structure, preventing the edges from rolling and creating a polished finished appearance.