Split Collar Poncho: Homespun Version in Lion Brand Homespun - 40530-HS

Split Collar Poncho in Lion Brand Homespun – Knit Pattern Summary

This free, downloadable knitting pattern from Lion Brand Yarn delivers a relaxed, stylish Split Collar Poncho that is as versatile as it is beginner-friendly. Originally featured in Knit It! Magazine 2005, the pattern is rated Easy skill level, making it an excellent choice for knitters who are comfortable with basic techniques but not yet ready for complex construction. The finished poncho measures 26½ inches (67.5 cm) in length, providing generous, wrap-ready coverage.

What Is Being Made

The project is a knitted split collar poncho constructed in two identical rectangular panels — one for the front and one for the back. The panels are shaped with strategic increases to create a flowing, draped silhouette. A split collar detail adds a distinctive neckline finish that elevates this poncho beyond a simple rectangle wrap. Because the two pieces are made separately and then joined, the construction is straightforward and easy to manage in stages.

The Homespun Version

While this pattern offers six different yarn options, the Homespun version is the focus of this listing. It calls for Lion Brand Homespun®, a beloved bulky-weight yarn known for its soft, textured, woven appearance and cozy drape. The recommended colorway shown is #336 Barrington, though knitters are encouraged to choose any color they prefer from the Homespun® range.

• Yarn: Lion Brand Homespun® — 4 skeins
• Needle Size: Lion Brand size 9 (5.5 mm) knitting needles, or size needed to obtain gauge
• Gauge: 12 stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch

Checking your gauge before beginning is strongly recommended, as achieving the correct tension ensures the poncho reaches the intended 26½-inch length and drapes properly.

Additional Materials Required

• Lion Brand stitch markers — used to mark the center increase column
• Lion Brand large-eyed blunt needle — for seaming the two panels together and weaving in ends

Techniques Used

The poncho is built using a classic top-down or panel construction method in which two matching pieces are knitted flat and then assembled. The shaping relies on a consistent increase technique worked on right-side rows to gradually widen each panel from the neck edge outward. Stitch markers are placed at the cast-on to define the center stitch, keeping the increases symmetrical throughout.

• Flat knitting — worked back and forth in rows on straight needles
• Seaming — the two panels are joined using a blunt needle to form the finished poncho
• Increase shaping — worked at four points across each right-side row to create the poncho's widening silhouette

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch — knit on right-side rows, purl on wrong-side rows; forms the main fabric of both panels
• M1 (Make 1) increase — a lifted-bar increase worked by picking up the horizontal thread lying between the needles and placing it onto the left needle, then knitting through the back loop to close the hole; this creates a nearly invisible increase that keeps the fabric smooth
• Knit (k) and Purl (p) — the foundational stitches used throughout

Pattern Structure

Each panel begins with a cast-on of 31 stitches, divided as 15 stitches, a marked center stitch, and 15 stitches. On every right-side row, four M1 increases are worked — one at each end of the row and one on each side of the center marker — adding 4 stitches per right-side row and building the poncho's characteristic A-line spread. Wrong-side rows are purled straight across without shaping. This simple, rhythmic repeat makes the pattern easy to memorize and meditative to knit.

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