Camden Hills Poncho in Berroco Ultra Wool - Portfolio4 - Downloadable PDF

Camden Hills Poncho in Berroco Ultra Wool

What is Being Made

The Camden Hills Poncho is a women's knitted poncho designed by Elizabeth Smith, featured in Berroco's Portfolio Volume 4. This intermediate-level garment is a versatile layering piece that drapes elegantly over the shoulders and torso. The poncho is available in three size ranges: Small/Medium (to fit bust 32-40"), Large/X-Large (to fit bust 42-50"), and 2X/3X (to fit bust 52-60"). The finished circumference ranges from 56½" to 67" depending on size, with front lengths varying from 25¾" to 27¾" and back lengths from 27¾" to 29¾". The design incorporates considerable positive ease, allowing for comfortable, relaxed wear over various garments.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs circular needle construction, a technique that allows for seamless, continuous knitting in the round. The poncho is worked using two different circular needle sizes to create distinct sections with varying gauges. The pattern requires working with both 24" and 32" circular needles, enabling the crafter to manage the increasing number of stitches as the garment expands. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and construction sections. The use of circular needles eliminates the need for seaming, resulting in a more polished finished garment.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure for the Camden Hills Poncho is Stockinette Stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-pattern appearance on the right side. Stockinette stitch is achieved by alternating knit rows and purl rows when working flat, or by knitting every round when working in the round. This fundamental stitch provides an excellent canvas for showcasing the yarn's texture and color while maintaining a clean, professional appearance suitable for a sophisticated layering piece.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Camden Hills Poncho is designed to be worked in Berroco Ultra Wool, a premium yarn that offers both durability and softness. Yardage requirements are based on ball weight, with each ball weighing 100 grams. Depending on the size selected, crafters will need between 5 balls (Small/Medium), 6 balls (Large/X-Large), or 7 balls (2X/3X) in colorway #33109 Fog, a neutral shade suitable for versatile styling.

The needle requirements include:

• 24" circular needles in size 8 (5.00 mm) for the main construction
• 32" circular needles in size 8 (5.00 mm) for working larger sections as stitches increase
• 24" circular needles in size 7 (4.50 mm) for ribbed edging or finishing details

The pattern specifies that needle size 7 should be one size smaller than the size used to obtain gauge. Additional notions required include stitch markers for tracking pattern sections and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and any finishing work.

Gauge and Construction Notes

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project's success. The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 26 rows/rounds equals 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch when worked on the larger (size 8) needles. The pattern includes the important reminder to check gauge before beginning, as variations in gauge will significantly affect the finished measurements and fit of the poncho. Working a gauge swatch using the recommended yarn and needles ensures that the final garment will meet the intended dimensions and drape properly.