Savoy Poncho in Rowan Felted Tweed Colour - Downloadable PDF

Savoy Poncho by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Savoy Poncho is a knitted cape-style garment designed by Martin Storey for Rowan. This poncho is constructed as a rectangular piece that drapes elegantly over the shoulders, offering three size options to accommodate bust measurements of 71-97 cm, 102-127 cm, and 132-157 cm. The design provides a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Techniques Used

The Savoy Poncho is knitted using flat knitting technique on circular needles worked in rows back and forth, rather than in the round. This approach is employed because of the large stitch count required for the garment's width. The poncho is constructed from the side, meaning knitting begins at one edge and progresses horizontally across the width of the piece. This construction method allows for seamless shaping and consistent stitch definition throughout the garment.

The finished piece requires blocking and pressing as part of the finishing process, which helps set the stitch definition and achieve the intended drape and dimensions of the completed poncho.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is a slip stitch textured pattern (point fantaisie). The pattern repeats over two rows:

• Row 1 (knit side): Knit 2 stitches, then repeat the sequence of slipping 2 stitches as if to purl with yarn forward, followed by knitting 2 stitches, continuing to the end of the row
• Row 2 (purl side): Purl across all stitches

This two-row repeat creates a subtle textured fabric with visual interest. The slip stitches with yarn forward create a distinctive surface pattern while maintaining the structural integrity of the knit fabric.

Materials

The Savoy Poncho is designed to be knitted in Rowan Felted Tweed Colour, a DK weight yarn. The pattern requires 6, 7, or 8 balls of 50g yarn depending on the size selected (the sample shown is photographed in Magenta 023). A circular needle size 3¾ (3.25mm) measuring at least 60 cm in length is required for accommodating the large number of cast-on stitches. The gauge is established at 21 stitches and 39 rows over 10 cm when working the textured pattern on size 3¾ needles.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond the absolute beginner level. The slip stitch pattern is straightforward to execute once established, and the flat construction method is relatively accessible, though managing the large stitch count on circular needles requires attention and basic knitting competency.