1134 Somerset - Poncho Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Brodie

1134 Somerset - Poncho Knitting Pattern for Women

What Is Being Made

The 1134 Somerset is a luxurious drop-shoulder poncho designed by Julie Turjoman for experienced knitters. This sophisticated layering piece features a dramatic cable pattern that runs up both the front and back, combined with a ribbed background that transitions seamlessly into the shoulders and a turtleneck collar. The poncho is designed to provide warmth and protection from fall winds while maintaining an elegant, wearable silhouette. Available in three sizes—Small, Medium, and Large—with finished widths of 26 inches, 31¼ inches, and 36¼ inches respectively, and a consistent length of 24½ inches.

Techniques Used

This advanced-level pattern employs multiple knitting techniques to achieve its sophisticated construction. The poncho is worked flat on straight needles for much of the project, then transitions to worked in the round using circular needles for the neck and turtleneck sections. The construction follows a bottom-up approach, building the garment from the lower edge upward. The finished pieces are seamed together to create the final poncho shape. Cable work is a central design element, with the dramatic cable pattern requiring the use of a cable needle to create the twisted, textured columns that define the front and back panels.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The pattern combines cable stitches with ribbed stitching to create visual interest and structural integrity. The ribbed background provides a classic, refined texture that flows throughout the piece and into the shoulder and neck areas. The dramatic cable pattern weaves its way across the front and back panels, creating dimensional texture that showcases the luxury of the yarn. The ribbed turtleneck collar completes the design, offering both comfort and functionality.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The 1134 Somerset pattern calls for Valley Yarns Brodie, a premium yarn blend composed of 95% Cashmere and 5% Extrafine Merino Wool. The yardage requirements are 9 balls (1,386 yards) for Size Small, 11 balls (1,694 yards) for Size Medium, and 13 balls (2,002 yards) for Size Large. Each ball weighs 50 grams. The sample shown in the pattern is knitted in Color 223 Silver Gray. The pattern accommodates two yarn weights: DK weight and worsted weight, offering flexibility for knitters working with different yarn options.

Needles and Notions

Knitters will need US 7 (4.5mm) circular needles in two sizes: a 16-inch needle for working the neck and turtleneck in the round, and a 32-inch to 40-inch needle for the larger body sections. The needle size may be adjusted as needed to achieve the correct gauge. Additional materials required include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, a cable needle for executing the cable stitches, and stitch holders for securing stitches during construction.

Fit and Sizing

The poncho is designed with 6 to 8 inches of positive ease, ensuring a comfortable, relaxed fit that works well as a layering piece. The 10-inch neck opening accommodates various head sizes while the drop-shoulder construction provides ease of movement and a flattering silhouette suitable for different body types.