Valley Yarns Benton Cherry Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Benton Cherry Knit Poncho

What is Being Made

The Benton Cherry is a light, ethereal summer poncho designed by Julie Turjoman. This shoulder warmer features a sophisticated combination of sheer and opaque stripes, making it versatile enough to dress up any outfit for a night out or provide warmth on cool evenings. The poncho is sized for a range of body types, with finished widths ranging from 39½ inches (XS) to 63½ inches (XL), and falls to the high hip with sleeve openings that reach the elbows. The design accommodates bust sizes from 32–36 inches through 56–60 inches, with positive ease of 4–8 inches for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Techniques Used

This knit poncho employs several key techniques to achieve its elegant drape and fit:

• Worked Flat: The poncho is constructed in two identical pieces worked back and forth in rows on circular needles, rather than in the round, making it accessible for knitters who prefer flat knitting methods.
• Short-Row Shaping: Shoulders are enhanced with short-row shaping to improve the overall fit and ensure proper shoulder placement.
• Seaming: The two body pieces are seamed together at the shoulders and sides, with armhole openings strategically left open for comfortable wear.
• Stranding Technique: A unique striping effect is created by alternating between holding a single strand of yarn (creating sheer sections) and holding two strands together (creating opaque sections), adding visual interest without requiring color changes.

Stitches Used

Stockinette Stitch forms the foundation of this design, providing a smooth, classic fabric that showcases the yarn's beautiful drape. The stockinette stitch is worked consistently throughout the body pieces, with strategic decreases worked into the first row of certain sizes to achieve proper gauge and fit.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Benton Cherry is designed to showcase the luxurious qualities of Valley Yarns Southampton, a premium yarn blend composed of 72% kid mohair and 28% mulberry silk. This sophisticated fiber combination provides exceptional softness and fluid drape, essential characteristics for a summer poncho. The yarn is worked at a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when two strands are held together and the fabric is blocked.

Yarn requirements vary by size: XS and S sizes require 10 balls, M size requires 12 balls, L size requires 14 balls, and XL size requires 16 balls. Each ball contains 25 grams and 230 yards, and the project is worked in color 024 – Slate Blue. The pattern calls for US 6 (4mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 32-inch lengths, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional materials include stitch holders or waste yarn for managing stitches, locking stitch markers for tracking pattern sections, and a tapestry needle for seaming and finishing.

Skill Level

Rated as Advanced Beginner, the Benton Cherry is an excellent project for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle techniques such as short-row shaping, working with multiple strands held together, and seaming. The two-piece construction and straightforward stockinette stitch base make this an achievable and rewarding project that produces a sophisticated, wearable garment.