Shimapon

Shimapon Striped Poncho by Takako Takiguchi

What is Being Made

Shimapon is a striped knitted poncho designed by independent designer Takako Takiguchi. The name derives from the Japanese word "shima," meaning stripe, reflecting the garment's defining characteristic. This poncho is constructed using two colors to create bold horizontal stripes throughout the design. Available in five sizes ranging from XS to XL, with finished neck measurements of 40cm, 44cm, 48cm, 53cm, and 57cm respectively, the poncho offers versatility for different body types. The length is fixed at 56cm from the top-down construction point, though knitters can easily adjust this measurement according to personal preference.

Construction Method

Shimapon is worked from the top down, a construction technique that allows for straightforward length adjustments as you knit. This method begins at the neckline and progresses downward, making it simple to try on and customize the finished length to your liking. The poncho is worked in the round using circular needles, creating a seamless garment. The pattern begins with a flat section worked back and forth before joining to work in the round, starting with a cast-on of 72 to 104 stitches depending on the chosen size.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Shimapon design incorporates two distinct knitting stitches to create visual interest and texture:

• Garter Stitch: Used in the initial section of the poncho, garter stitch is created by knitting every row. This fundamental stitch produces a textured, bumpy fabric with horizontal ridges and is ideal for beginners.
• Zigzag Stitch: The second stitch type creates a distinctive zigzag pattern throughout the striped sections of the poncho, adding dynamic visual movement to the two-color design.

The combination of these two stitches with the two-color striping technique creates a poncho with both textural and visual complexity suitable for beginner-level knitters.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for Madelinetosh Tosh Merino, a worsted weight yarn with a yardage of 192 meters per 100 grams. Two colors are used: Color 1 (C1) is Astrid Grey (#259), requiring 1 to 2 skeins depending on size, for approximately 170 to 250 meters total. Color 2 (C2) is Chicory (#283), requiring 1 to 2 skeins, for approximately 180 to 340 meters total.

Needles: A 4.5mm circular needle is required for this project.

Gauge: The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows over 10 centimeters when worked in stockinette stitch, which helps ensure proper sizing and fit.

Notions: Additional materials include one stitch marker to denote the beginning of rounds and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Difficulty Level

Shimapon is rated as a beginner-level knitting project, making it accessible to knitters new to the craft. The straightforward stitches—garter stitch and zigzag stitch—combined with the top-down construction method create a manageable learning project that produces a wearable, fashionable garment.