Poncho and Mitts in Stylecraft Bellissima DK - 9700 - Downloadable PDF

Poncho and Mitts in Stylecraft Bellissima DK – Pattern 9700

This Stylecraft pattern 9700 is a downloadable PDF offering two coordinating knitted designs: a classic poncho and a pair of mitts (fingerless gloves or mittens). Both pieces are worked in Stylecraft Bellissima DK, a double knitting weight yarn, making this a versatile pattern set ideal for knitters looking to create a matching cold-weather accessory collection. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty, meaning it suits knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping and simple cable techniques.

The Poncho

What Is Being Made

The poncho is a generously sized, draped outerwear garment designed to be worn over the shoulders and fall loosely over the body. It is a timeless, relaxed silhouette that requires minimal shaping compared to a fitted sweater, making it an accessible project for intermediate knitters. The design features a decorative cable panel at the centre, which adds visual interest and a touch of texture to an otherwise clean, classic shape.

Sizing and Measurements

The poncho is offered in five sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 81–86 cm (32–34 in) up to 122–127 cm (48–50 in). Actual finished measurements span from 112 cm to 152 cm (44 in to 59¾ in) in width, and the full length ranges from 62 cm to 73 cm (24½ in to 28¾ in) depending on the size chosen. This generous range of sizing makes the pattern inclusive and suitable for a wide variety of body types.

Techniques and Construction

The poncho is constructed using a combination of knit and purl stitches to create a structured fabric, with a central decorative section featuring cable crossings. The pattern specifies a 4 mm needle for the main fabric. Construction begins with a cast-on of between 128 and 172 stitches depending on the size, and the fabric is worked flat in rows.

• Row structure: The pattern establishes a right-side (RS) and wrong-side (WS) row sequence from the outset, with the first four rows setting up the ribbed and cabled framework before the cable crossings are introduced.
• Cable stitches: Row 5 introduces C4B (Cable 4 Back) and C4F (Cable 4 Front) crossings, worked twice in sequence to form a central cable panel. These four-stitch cable crossings are a hallmark of classic knitting and create a twisted rope or braid effect in the fabric.
• Rib-style columns: Flanking the cable panel are repeated sequences of P1, K6 (on the right side), which create vertical ribbed columns that frame the central cables and add elasticity and texture to the sides of the poncho.
• Side panels: The outer sections of each row are worked in stocking stitch or a simple knit-based fabric, providing a smooth backdrop that contrasts with the textured centre.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) – the foundational stitches used throughout
• C4B – Cable 4 Back, a right-leaning four-stitch cable cross
• C4F – Cable 4 Front, a left-leaning four-stitch cable cross
• Rib pattern (P1, K6) – used to create vertical texture columns

Materials

The poncho requires Stylecraft Bellissima DK in 100g balls. The quantity needed ranges from 6 balls for the smallest size up to 8 balls for the largest size. The colourway specified in the pattern is Precious Posy 3975. 4 mm knitting needles are used throughout the poncho.

The Mitts

What Is Being Made

The second design in this pattern set is a pair of kn