Plateau poncho

Plateau Poncho by Takako Takiguchi

What is Being Made

The Plateau poncho is a versatile, easy-to-wear rectangle poncho designed by Takako Takiguchi. This garment features a practical side slit and is constructed as one large rectangular shawl that is subsequently sewn at the shoulder line to create the finished poncho shape. The design is appropriate for all seasons, making it a practical layering piece that can be brought anywhere to provide warmth when needed.

Construction Method and Techniques

This poncho is worked flat using the knitting method, meaning it is knitted in a single large rectangular piece before finishing. The pattern is beginner-friendly, making it accessible to knitters new to poncho construction. One of the key advantages of this design is its adjustability: the size can be easily modified by changing the cast-on numbers and adjusting the body length to suit individual preferences and measurements.

The construction process involves casting on stitches, working the rectangular body to the desired length, and then seaming the shoulder line to transform the flat rectangle into a wearable poncho. The side slit design adds both comfort and style, allowing for ease of movement while wearing the garment.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch used throughout the Plateau poncho is the half brioche stitch, which creates a textured, elastic fabric with excellent drape and recovery. This stitch technique involves specialized abbreviations including sl1wyf yo (slip 1 purlwise with yarn forward, yarnover), which requires bringing the working yarn under the needle to the front of the work, slipping the next stitch purlwise, then bringing the yarn over the needle and over the slipped stitch to the back in position for the following row. The brioche stitch construction contributes to the poncho's comfortable fit and professional appearance.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for 7 balls of Drops Bomull Lin, a linen-blend yarn with approximately 85 meters per 50-gram ball, totaling about 590 meters and 350 grams. This yarn weight is classified as aran weight, providing good stitch definition and drape suitable for poncho construction.

Needles and Notions: A circular needle in size 4.5 mm is required for working the flat rectangular pieces. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, a cable needle for any cable work if needed, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Gauge: The pattern specifies a gauge of 17 stitches and 20 rows over 10 centimeters when worked in half brioche stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is important for obtaining the intended finished dimensions.

Finished Dimensions

The Plateau poncho is available in one size with the following measurements: width of 54 centimeters and length of 146 centimeters before seaming the shoulder line. The adjustable nature of the pattern allows knitters to customize these dimensions to their preferences by modifying cast-on numbers and body length.