Ottobre

Ottobre Mini Poncho by Malvainfiore Knitting and Bijoux

What Is Being Made

The Ottobre is a mini poncho designed by independent designer Malvainfiore Knitting and Bijoux. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a refined, wearable garment with clean lines and precise details. The poncho was conceived during moments of reflection in October, resulting in a design that balances simplicity with sophisticated finishing touches.

Craft and Technique Overview

This is an intermediate-level knitting project that combines two complementary yarns worked together throughout the construction. The technique involves holding yarns in tandem to achieve the desired fabric characteristics and visual effect. The finished poncho weighs approximately 119 grams and requires between 950 to 1000 meters of combined yardage.

Yarn Materials and Specifications

The Ottobre pattern calls for two yarns held together:

• Plumet by Manifattura di Sesia (color 0277 avio): A luxurious blend of 70% mohair and 30% polyamide. Each 25-gram ball yields 250 meters (273 yards). The pattern requires 3/4 balls of this yarn.
• Harmony by Lana Gatto (color 20583 avio): 100% merino wool available in cone format. The 100-gram cone provides 1500 meters (1640 yards) of yardage.

The pattern notes that Harmony by Lana Gatto can be substituted with comparable lace-weight alternatives, including Fine Lace by Rowan (30 gr = 400 mt), Nirvana di Filatura by Crosa (25 gr = 340 mt), or Centolavaggi by Filatura di Crosa (100 gr = 1400 mt), or other similar lace-weight yarns of equivalent yardage.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

Accurate gauge is essential for this project. After washing and blocking in stockinette stitch, the gauge measures 18.20 stitches per 10 centimeters and 30 rows per 10 centimeters. Knitters should swatch carefully with both yarns held together to ensure proper fit and drape of the finished poncho.

Equipment and Needles

This pattern requires short-tip circular needles in size 4 (US 6 / 4mm), measuring approximately 40 centimeters in length. The short tips (4 inches) facilitate working in the round and managing the poncho construction comfortably.

Stitches and Construction Details

The pattern employs stockinette stitch as the primary stitch structure, which is then washed and blocked to achieve the final gauge and refined appearance. The combination of mohair and merino wool creates a fabric with both drape and definition, allowing the clean lines and precise details to be showcased effectively.