Universal Yarn Mojave Poncho Cape Knitting Pattern

Universal Yarn Mojave Poncho

What Is Being Made

The Universal Yarn Mojave Poncho is a versatile, warm-weather cape-style garment designed by Amy Gunderson. This flattering poncho is constructed as a seamed piece that works well across all body types and comes in four size ranges: Extra Small/Small, Medium/Large, 1X/2X, and 3X/4X. The finished poncho measures between 23 to 35 inches in width and 28¼ to 29¾ inches in length, offering generous positive ease for comfortable wear.

Techniques Used

The Mojave Poncho employs a combination of knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive aesthetic. The garment is worked flat on circular needles rather than in the round, allowing for structured shaping and seaming. Lace elements are incorporated throughout the design, creating visual interest and breathability suitable for warmer climates. The construction involves seaming pieces together, with particular attention to the shoulder saddle detail. Vertical stripes and textured elements are strategically combined with ribbed sections to enhance the overall design. The neckline and armholes are finished with a professional garter stitch edging, while the shoulder area features a distinctive ribbed saddle construction that adds both visual appeal and structural integrity.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes several key stitches to create the Mojave Poncho's signature look:

• Texture Stitch: A lace pattern worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 1, featuring yarn overs and k3tog (knit 3 together) decreases that create an open, decorative fabric. This stitch is worked at a gauge of 20 stitches by 36 rows over 4 inches on smaller needles.
• K2, P2 Ribbing: Used for the shoulder saddle and other ribbed sections, this classic ribbing creates vertical lines and provides elasticity. The ribbing is worked at a gauge of 27 stitches by 28 rows over 4 inches on smaller needles.
• Garter Stitch: Applied as edging on the armholes and neckline for a polished, professional finish. Garter stitch is worked at a gauge of 20 stitches by 36 rows over 4 inches on smaller needles.
• Stockinette Stitch: Formed by alternating knit rows (right side) and purl rows (wrong side), this foundational stitch creates smooth fabric sections throughout the garment.

Materials

The Mojave Poncho is designed to be worked in two complementary yarns from the Fibra Natura collection, both offering a luxurious fiber blend ideal for transitional weather wear.

Main Color (MC) Yarn: Fibra Natura Unity Beyond, a blend of 36% wool, 28% cotton, 18% linen, and 18% bamboo, providing breathability and durability. This yarn yields 262 yards per 100-gram skein. The main color used is Abode, and yardage requirements range from 5 skeins for Extra Small/Small to 8 skeins for 3X/4X sizes.

Contrast Color (CC2) Yarn: Fibra Natura Unity, featuring the same fiber composition of 36% wool, 28% cotton, 18% linen, and 18% bamboo at 262 yards per 100 grams. The contrast color is Wolf, with 1 to 2 skeins needed depending on size.

Needles: The pattern requires US Size 6 (4 mm) circular needles in 32-inch length for the main fabric, and US Size 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles in 16-inch length for ribbed sections and edging. Needle size may be adjusted to achieve the correct gauge.

Additional Notions: A stitch marker and tapestry needle are required for construction and finishing.

Gauge Information

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. The main Texture Stitch pattern should measure 21 stitches by 34 rows over 4 inches when worked with the larger needles. The K2, P2 Ribbing should measure 27 stitches by 28 rows over 4 inches with the smaller needles, while garter stitch edging should measure 20 stitches by 36 rows over 4 inches. Knitters