Poncho in Hayfield Bonus DK - 10273 - Downloadable PDF

Hayfield Bonus DK Poncho – Knitting Pattern 10273

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern (pattern number 10273) from Hayfield provides full instructions for a classic, elegantly structured poncho worked in Hayfield Bonus DK yarn. Designed to suit a wide range of body sizes, this intermediate-level project combines the timeless appeal of a poncho silhouette with textural interest created through a combination of cable panelling and stocking stitch. The result is a versatile layering piece that works beautifully as a casual cover-up or a polished outerwear addition.

Garment Overview and Sizing

The poncho is available in six sizes, making it accessible to a broad range of knitters and wearers:

• Size S: 81/86 cm (32/34 inch) chest, 124 cm (48¾ inch) length, 160 cm (63¼ inch) width
• Size M: 91/97 cm (36/38 inch) chest, 128 cm (50½ inch) length, 170 cm (67 inch) width
• Size L: 102/107 cm (40/42 inch) chest, 132 cm (52 inch) length, 180 cm (71 inch) width
• Size XL: 112/117 cm (44/46 inch) chest, 136 cm (53½ inch) length, 190 cm (74¾ inch) width
• Size XXL: 122/127 cm (48/50 inch) chest, 140 cm (55¼ inch) length, 200 cm (78¾ inch) width
• Size XXXL: 132/137 cm (52/54 inch) chest, 144 cm (56¾ inch) length, 210 cm (82¾ inch) width

The generous width measurements across all sizes reflect the relaxed, draped nature of a traditional poncho shape, ensuring comfortable coverage and elegant drape when worn. The right and left sides of the poncho are worked alike, simplifying construction and making this an approachable project for knitters at the intermediate skill level.

Techniques and Construction

This pattern is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it ideal for knitters who are comfortable with basic knitting techniques and are ready to develop their skills further with the introduction of cable work. The construction method involves working the right and left sides separately, then assembling the finished pieces. The thumb method of casting on is specified throughout the pattern, which creates a neat, elastic edge well suited to the flowing lines of a poncho.

Key Techniques Used

• Cable knitting: A defined cable panel runs through the fabric, adding rich three-dimensional texture. Cables are a classic knitting technique in which stitches are crossed over one another using a cable needle, creating twisted rope-like or lattice patterns in the finished fabric.
• Stocking stitch (st-st): The main body of the poncho is worked in stocking stitch — knit on right-side rows and purl on wrong-side rows — producing a smooth, flat fabric that provides an elegant contrast to the raised cable panel.
• Combination of cable panel and stocking stitch: The pattern works both the cable panel and stocking stitch simultaneously as a set pattern, requiring the knitter to manage two distinct stitch patterns across the same rows.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch — the primary background stitch used across the main body sections
• Cable panel stitches — worked using a cable needle to create the decorative cable design
• Ribbing or edging stitches are implied through the use of smaller needles at certain stages, typical for neat, non-curling borders on poncho edges

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential to ensure the poncho matches the stated measurements. Two tension gauges are given for this pattern:

• Stocking stitch tension: 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm / 4 inches using 4mm (UK8 / USA6) needles
• Cable panel tension: 24 stitches