Marlow Poncho in Berroco Sesame - Downloadable PDF

Marlow Poncho in Berroco Sesame — Pattern Summary

About This Design

The Marlow Poncho is an elegant, wearable accessory designed by Amy Christoffers and published by Berroco. This intermediate-level knitting pattern creates a classic rectangular poncho with a thoughtfully shaped neckline, making it a step above a simple rectangle while remaining approachable for knitters with some experience. The design is available as a downloadable PDF, and the pattern is updated whenever corrections are made, so knitters are encouraged to download the most recent version before casting on.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The Marlow Poncho is offered in two size ranges to accommodate a wide variety of body types:

• Size 1: To fit approximately 32–44" (80–112 cm) bust — finished measurements 22" (56 cm) wide x 25" (63.5 cm) long
• Size 2: To fit approximately 46–68" (116–174 cm) bust — finished measurements 25" (63.5 cm) wide x 28" (71 cm) long

The generous size range means this poncho can be knitted to drape beautifully across a broad spectrum of figures, from petite to plus sizes.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Berroco Sesame, a worsted-weight yarn sold in 100-gram skeins. The sample shown uses colorway #7456 Acai, a rich, deep tone that suits the poncho's relaxed, sophisticated silhouette. Yarn quantities required are:

• Size 1: 5 balls of Berroco Sesame
• Size 2: 6 balls of Berroco Sesame

Berroco recommends using the specified yarn to ensure the finished measurements and drape match the original design. As a worsted-weight yarn, Berroco Sesame works up at a satisfying pace and produces a fabric with excellent stitch definition, making the garter stitch texture especially pronounced and appealing.

Needles and Notions

To knit the Marlow Poncho, you will need the following tools and accessories:

• 32" (80 cm) circular needle, size 7 / 4.5 mm — or size needed to obtain gauge
• Spare circular needle, size 7 / 4.5 mm or smaller — used during construction
• 4 stitch markers — essential for tracking neck shaping increases
• Tapestry needle — for finishing and weaving in ends

Although circular needles are used, the poncho is worked flat, meaning it is knitted back and forth in rows rather than in the round. The long circular needle simply accommodates the large stitch count comfortably. Knitters whose cast-on tends to run tight are advised to use a needle one to two sizes larger for the cast-on row alone.

Techniques and Construction

The Marlow Poncho is worked flat from the bottom up, beginning with a straightforward cast-on and a long section of garter stitch before transitioning into neck shaping. The construction is clean and logical, making it an excellent project for intermediate knitters looking to build confidence with shaping techniques.

Key techniques used in this pattern include:

• Long tail cast-on — the preferred method specified in the pattern notes, producing a neat, elastic edge well-suited to garter stitch fabric
• Garter stitch — the primary stitch pattern throughout the body, created by knitting every row when working flat; garter stitch produces a squishy, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges that lies flat without curling
• Marker placement and management — four stitch markers are placed to define the neck shaping zones
• M1R (Make 1 Right) and M1L (Make 1 Left) — paired lifted increases used symmetrically on either side of marked stitches to shape the neckline; these increases are nearly invisible and create a smooth, professional finish
• Dividing for front and back