String Katherine Poncho Cape Knitting Pattern

String Katherine Poncho by Rosemary Drysdale

What is Being Made

The Katherine Poncho is a luxurious knitted cape-style garment designed in three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large. This poncho features a fitted neckline that transitions to a wider body, creating an elegant layering piece. The finished poncho measures 20 to 24 inches in length from neck to shoulder and 34 to 46 inches in width, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various body types and styling preferences.

Construction Method and Techniques

This poncho is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed, and worked-flat approach, which allows for precise shaping and control throughout the knitting process. The garment begins with the main body panels knitted flat on straight needles, followed by strategic seaming to create the finished structure. The neckline is worked in the round using a circular needle, allowing for seamless decreases that create a fitted opening. Long side edges and bottom edges are finished with picked-up stitches, providing clean, professional edges that frame the garment beautifully.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

The Katherine Poncho employs two primary stitch patterns:

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) forms the main body of the poncho, creating a smooth, classic fabric with knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side. This stitch pattern provides an elegant drape and showcases the luxurious yarn beautifully.
• K1P1 Rib is used for the neckline finishing and edge treatments. When worked in the round at the neckline, this alternating knit-and-purl pattern creates elasticity and a refined, fitted appearance. The ribbed edges on the long sides and bottom provide structure and prevent curling, while also adding textural interest to the finished piece.

The neckline shaping incorporates strategic decreases—specifically ssk (slip, slip, knit) and k2tog (knit two together)—worked on either side of a center stitch to create a symmetrical, tapered opening that sits comfortably at the neck.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Katherine Poncho is designed to be knitted with String TUSCANY, a premium blend yarn containing 58% cashmere, 28% lambswool, 8% silk, and 6% other fibers. This luxurious fiber composition ensures softness, warmth, and elegant drape. Each ball weighs 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and provides 154 yards (140 meters) of yardage. The pattern calls for 8 balls for the Small size, 10 balls for the Medium size, and 13 balls for the Large size. The recommended color is #517484 amethyst tweed, a sophisticated neutral tone.

Needles and Tools

This project requires US 7 (4.5mm) needles in two configurations: straight needles or appropriate size needles for working flat sections, and a 32-inch (80cm) long circular needle for the neckline work. Stitch markers are essential for tracking the center stitch and managing pattern repeats throughout construction.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 17 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in Stockinette Stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is critical to ensure the finished poncho measures accurately and drapes as intended. Knitters are advised to take time to check gauge before beginning the project.