How to machine knit a simple Poncho from 2 rectangles

A poncho or cape is less forgiving than a sweater. One size can fit many shapes of the body. This one is made of 2 rectangle pieces, fold them up and sew 2 side seams. I use the LK150 mid-gauge knitting machine. It can be done easily on different machines with some calculations.

I use a worsted weight yarn so the poncho is nice and warm just like a blanket. The hand-manipulated ribbing will go faster with worsted weight yarn too.

Watch the video tutorial for the Poncho knitting on an LK150

Basic Pattern

Yarn: worsted weight. 16 oz. total

Machine: LK150

Tension: 7 on both the Carriage and Mast

Cast on: Left 49 to Right 50 (99 stitches total), E-wrap cast on.

Dropped stitch: Place the following needles in the non-working position to create some dropped stitches for visual interest.

• L40, L20, 0, R20, R40

Ribbing: I hand-manipulate the purl stitches.

Decide on the purl stitch locations.

I have every other needle on the outer stitches to create 4 purls, the 2nd stitch from the dropped stitch (out-of-work needles), and every 4th stitch in the center. See the video for more detail.

Knit 10 rows.

Reform the ribbing (the above-selected stitches) by dropping the stitches, latch back up, and rehang to the needle.

Starting the Main Part

The center part is just plain knitting. We will keep the outer 3 ribbing stitches on each side so the fabric does not curl.

Every 10 or 20 rows, stop and reform the ribbing by dropping the stitches and re-latch up.

Knit 190 rows total (modify as you like).

Bind off and take off the machine (Any type of bind-off will work).

Repeat the same for another identical piece

Sewing up

Now we have to place the 2 pieces in a 90-degree angle and fold down the edge without ribbing. The front and back will look the same. (see video)

Sew up the 2 seams. (Whipstitch, crochet together, or any method to seam together. Use some clips and work in sections to make it even).

Block the poncho by steaming.

If the neck opening is too big, you can pick up stitches and do some ribbing by hand.

Now you have a poncho, happy knitting.