Winter Trend Alert: Ponchos and Cape Patterns

Remember the poncho trend from the late ’90s? It’s back, but this time it’s bringing capes along with it.

No need to worry about the ponchos and capes making you look like you just rolled out of bed and threw on the first thing you pulled out of your closet. Take a peek at the poncho and cape knitting patterns from Craftsy. While you’re at it, get some great styling ideas for any type of outfit from casual to chic.

Horseshoe Cabled Cape knitting pattern

Photo via Craftsy member TheSexyKnitter

Horseshoe Cabled Cape

This cape doesn’t have a lot of shaping, so it works up quickly — plus it’s great for knitting while you watch TV or listen to an audiobook.

Styling idea: Pair your cape with a to-die-for headband like designer TheSexyKnitter did here.


El Matador poncho knitting pattern

Photo via Craftsy member AllysonD

El Matador

Bobble alert! If you’re not crazy about bobbles, you can just knit those sleeve sections without the bobbles. In fact, you might even want to make two versions of it!

Styling idea: On warmer winter days, trade your coat for a cape like designer AllysonD suggests.


Cocoon Cape knitting kit

Cocoon Cape Kit

Ever want to wrap your legs in a blanket while you’re sitting at work? Me, too. (And yep, I’ve been known to do that.) This kit comes with everything you need to knit this cozy cape, including the washable Lion Brand yarn.

Styling idea: Capes don’t have to be dressy. Pair your cape with basics, like pants and solid long-sleeved tees.


Buttoned Cape knitting pattern

Photo via Craftsy member Vogue Knitting

Buttoned Cape

It doesn’t get more classic than cables and capes. The two join forces here for this beautiful buttoned cape. Save your best buttons for this!

Styling idea: Skip the neutrals and go for something bold, like this red cape. Not a fan of red? Check out the Pantone Fall/Winter Color Report for more bold ideas.


Merino Cape Kit

Merino Cape Kit

Artyarns do all the work for you in this cape kit. Their Luxe Merino has unexpected color variations that bring out each and every stitch in your work.

Styling idea: Capes don’t have to be worn as outerwear. A smaller cape like this can be layered underneath your coat for even more warmth.


Ice Queen Poncho knitting pattern

Photo via Craftsy member Elena Nodel

Ice Queen Poncho

Kids dig ponchos, if designer Elena Nodel’s daughter is any indication. They’re easier to throw on than coats with lots of fussy buttons, plus they can transition from season to season.

Styling idea: Rally those yarn scraps and create your own unique color palette. Have tons of yarn in one color? You can knit this up in a solid color, too.


Back Bay Poncho knitting pattern

Photo via Craftsy member Mac N Me

Back Bay Poncho

Yay for chunky yarn! Knit this poncho up in no time with a cozy, bulky yarn. It’s knit in the round, so you won’t even have to worry about seaming it when you’re finished.

Styling idea: Ponchos and boots make a great team. Pair yours together, whether you’re wearing them with a dress or pants.

Looking for more ways to wrap yourself up in winter? Take on a lace shawl? Anna Dalvi’s newest class, My First Lace Shawl, comes with a gorgeous shawl pattern and includes Anna’s expert help along the way.

What do you wrap up in during winter? Any other winter trends you’re digging right now?

Share tips, start a discussion or ask one of our experts or other students a question.

2 Responses to “Winter Trend Alert: Ponchos and Cape Patterns”

  1. Casseron

    Pourriez vous me donner les explications du poncho enfant Temptation merci

  2. Linda Hillman

    How do I access the pattern for the back bay poncho?