Silverbranch

Silverbranch Cape by Alicia Plummer

What is Being Made

Silverbranch is a knitted cape designed by independent designer Alicia Plummer. This project creates a wearable garment with finished bust circumferences available in two sizes: 43 inches (109 cm) and 50.5 inches (128 cm). The cape is constructed as a structured knit piece suitable for layering and everyday wear.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Silverbranch cape is worked flat from the bottom up using a methodical construction approach. The lower sides are seamed before picking up stitches to finish the armholes and neckline, creating a garment with clean, professional edges. The shoulders are seamed along the edge for durability and shape retention.

The pattern employs the tubular long tail cast-on method to create an elastic, finished edge at the lower band. This technique produces a professional appearance and allows the ribbed cuff to stretch comfortably.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch – the primary fabric throughout the main body of the cape, created by alternating knit and purl rows to produce a smooth, classic texture
• Ribbing (k1, p1) – used for the 2-inch lower band to create elasticity and a fitted edge that hugs the body

Yarn and Materials

Silverbranch is designed for Malabrigo Chunky yarn, a 100% wool fiber available in 100-yard (91-meter) skeins per 100 grams. The pattern requires 700 yards (640 meters) for the smaller size and 900 yards (820 meters) for the larger size. The sample shown is worked in the Pearl colorway. Chunky yarn weight allows for quick project completion and creates a warm, substantial fabric suitable for a cape.

Needles and Tools

Construction requires US 10.5 (6.5 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches or longer for the main fabric in stockinette stitch, and US 10 (6.0 mm) circular needles of the same length for the ribbed cuff. Coordinating double-pointed needles (DPNs) are needed if not using the magic loop method for working small circumferences. Additional notions include 4 stitch markers, 4 removable stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, and a darning needle for seaming sides and weaving in yarn ends.

Difficulty Level

Silverbranch is rated as a beginner-friendly knitting project. The straightforward stitch patterns, simple shaping, and clear construction method make this cape accessible to knitters new to garment construction while still producing a polished, wearable result.

Gauge

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 13 stitches and 16 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch on the larger needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished bust circumference and proper fit.