Miyako poncho

Miyako Poncho by Takako Takiguchi

What Is Being Made

The Miyako poncho is a versatile cabled poncho designed by Takako Takiguchi that works beautifully across all seasons. This knitted garment features a sophisticated cable pattern and is available in five sizes: S, M/L, XL, and 2XL. The finished width ranges from approximately 62 cm (24.4 inches) for size S to 81 cm (31.9 inches) for size 2XL, with lengths from neck to front bottom varying from 62 cm (24.4 inches) to 77 cm (30.3 inches) depending on size selection. The design allows for customization of length by adding additional pattern repeats according to personal preference.

Construction Technique

The Miyako poncho employs a top-down construction method, which allows knitters to try on the garment as it develops and easily adjust the final length. The upper and lower body sections are worked in the round using circular needles, creating seamless fabric in these areas. The armholes are then worked flat, transitioning from circular to flat construction to shape the arm openings. This hybrid approach combines the efficiency of circular knitting with the shaping control of flat knitting, making it an excellent intermediate-level project.

Stitches and Stitch Pattern

The primary stitch pattern features cables, which are a hallmark of this design. The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting abbreviations including knit (k), purl (p), knit into front and back (kfb), cast on (CO), and marker placement (pm and sm). The gauge is established at 20 stitches by 22 rows over 10 centimeters in plain stitch, providing a standard measurement for achieving proper fit and fabric drape. The cable stitches create visual texture and dimension while the plain stitch sections provide balance and structure to the overall design.

Materials and Tools

The Miyako poncho is worked in worsted weight yarn, with yardage requirements varying by size: size S requires approximately 750 meters (820 yards) using 5 balls of Lang yarns Angelina in color #26 (150m per 50g ball), while size 2XL requires approximately 1,560 meters (1,700 yards) using 11 balls of the same yarn. The pattern recommends using a 3 mm circular needle, though the designer notes that she intentionally selected a needle size smaller than typically recommended for worsted weight yarn to create tighter, more defined cables. Knitters are encouraged to adjust needle size according to their specific yarn choice and desired cable definition. Additional notions required include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends upon completion.

Yarn Weight Flexibility

While the pattern is written for worsted weight yarn, the Miyako poncho can be adapted to aran or sport weight yarns as well, offering flexibility for knitters with different yarn preferences or stash materials. Adjusting to alternative yarn weights will require recalculating yardage requirements and potentially adjusting needle size to maintain proper gauge and cable definition.