#1313 Pollux - Poncho Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Hampden by Valley Yarns

Pollux Poncho Knitting Pattern for Women

Project Overview

The Pollux is an intermediate-level capelet designed by Julie Turjoman for Valley Yarns. This two-color knitted topper combines graphic color contrast with straightforward construction, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various outfits. The finished capelet measures 29¾ (33¼, 37, 40½)" edge to edge when laid flat, with a length of 15 (16, 18, 20)" depending on size. Available in four sizes—Small through Extra Large—the pattern accommodates bust sizes from 32–54".

Design and Construction Techniques

The Pollux features a distinctive design combining two primary knitting techniques. A deep mosaic border flows seamlessly into narrow vertical stripes that define the capelet's visual character. The pattern employs both garter stitch and stockinette stitch to create textural and visual interest. The design utilizes stranded colorwork methods, allowing crafters to work with two colors simultaneously to achieve the striking two-tone aesthetic. The entire capelet is worked flat on circular needles, simplifying the construction process while maintaining the piece's elegant drape and silhouette.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

• Garter Stitch: Creates a textured foundation, particularly prominent in the mosaic border section
• Stockinette Stitch: Provides smooth, refined fabric in the striped sections
• Mosaic Colorwork: A two-color technique that creates geometric patterns with visual depth
• Stranded Colorwork: Allows two colors to be carried simultaneously across rows, creating the narrow vertical stripe pattern

Yarn and Materials

The Pollux pattern calls for Valley Yarns Hampden, a premium DK-weight yarn composed of 50% Baby Alpaca, 35% Fine Merino Wool, and 15% Mulberry Silk. This fiber blend provides the silky hand, soft drape, and luxurious feel essential to the capelet's refined appearance. The pattern specifies two colorways: Color A (Evergreen, shade 11) requires 6 (7, 9, 10) hanks, while Color B (Silver Gray, shade 03) requires 5 (6, 8, 9) hanks, depending on the finished size. Each hank contains 50 grams and approximately 95 yards of yarn.

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires circular needles in two sizes to achieve proper gauge and construction. US 6 (4.00mm) circular needles measuring 32–40" are used for the main body of the capelet, or a size as needed to match the specified gauge. US 5 (3.75mm) circular needles in both 16–24" and 32" lengths are also required, typically for ribbing, edging, or gauge adjustments. Circular needles facilitate working flat while managing the capelet's width comfortably.

Skill Level and Difficulty

Rated as Intermediate, the Pollux pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills in basic stitches and colorwork techniques. The combination of mosaic and stranded colorwork, along with managing multiple stitches across the capelet's width, requires intermediate-level proficiency. However, the straightforward construction and logical stitch progression make it an accessible project for advancing knitters seeking to develop their two-color knitting capabilities.