Wheatsheaf Poncho

Wheatsheaf Poncho by Loraine Birchall

What is Being Made

The Wheatsheaf Poncho is a knitted cape-style garment designed by independent designer Loraine Birchall. This poncho features a distinctive wheatsheaf cable pattern and is available in seven sizes ranging from Small/Medium through 4XL, with finished lengths from 50 inches to 60 inches when laid flat. The design includes button closures, with size-appropriate quantities ranging from 12 buttons for the smallest size to 22 buttons for the largest size.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This beginner-friendly knitting project employs several fundamental techniques suitable for those new to the craft. The poncho is constructed using cable knitting, a classic technique that creates raised, twisted stitch patterns. The design incorporates both cable pattern sections and stocking stitch (stockinette stitch) areas, allowing knitters to practice multiple stitch types within a single project. The pattern includes charted instructions, with Charts A and B each measuring approximately 4.5 inches wide after blocking, providing visual guidance for the cable work.

Stitches Used

• Cable Pattern – The primary decorative element of the poncho, creating the wheatsheaf motif
• Stocking Stitch – Used for sections between cable patterns, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric

Yarn and Materials

The Wheatsheaf Poncho is designed to work with Aran weight yarn, with yardage requirements varying by size from 700 yards for the smallest size up to 2420 yards for the largest size. The pattern specifically recommends Stylecraft Special Aran with Wool, though any Aran or worsted weight yarn of similar fiber content and yardage will produce the intended results. Construction requires 5.5mm (US size 9) needles measuring 36 inches (91.5 cm) in length, allowing for the circular construction needed for this poncho. Additional notions include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and securing the button closures.

Gauge and Blocking

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. In the cable pattern sections worked unstretched, the gauge measures 18 stitches by 28 rows over 3 inches by 5.25 inches (7.5 cm by 13.5 cm). In stocking stitch areas after blocking, the gauge is 17 stitches by 24 rows over 4 inches by 4 inches (10 cm by 10 cm). Blocking is recommended to achieve the final measurements and to allow the charted pattern sections to reach their intended width of approximately 4.5 inches.