Poncho Knitting Pattern (Easy Ripples and Ridges)

If you’re looking for a cozy project, this poncho knitting pattern is a great pattern for you.

The texture adds a delightful wave-like pattern that makes the poncho both stylish and warm.

It’s an enjoyable knit that’s sure to become a favorite in your wardrobe!

Please scroll down to view the free knitting pattern or grab your printer-friendly ad-free PDF here.

Poncho Knitting Pattern (Easy Ripples and Ridges)

Free Poncho Knitting Pattern

Skill Level – Easy Project (The perfect project for an advanced beginner)

Notes

Creating a cotton light beach poncho using this ripples and ridges knitting pattern is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a breezy, stylish cover-up.

The lightweight cotton makes it perfect for warm days, providing just the right amount of comfort without overheating.

Plus, the elegant texture of the ripples and ridges stitch adds a unique touch, making it a chic accessory for any beach outing.

Grab the ad-free printable PDF pattern here.

Copyright Info

Please do not copy, sell, redistribute, or republish this pullover poncho knit.
If you wish to share this pattern, link to the pattern page only.
You may sell items produced using this pattern.
Do NOT use copyrighted photos for your product listing.
For the copyright T&C, please read my Terms of Use.

Size Information

The poncho shown in the photos is an adult woman’s medium.
Sizes = Small, Medium, Large, XL, XXL, XXXL.
Finished Length of each knitted piece/panel = 27 (29, 33, 39, 47, 57) inches / 68.5 (73.5, 84, 99, 119, 145) cm.
Your size can easily be adjusted to the right size by making the cast on number fewer or more stitches and the length longer or shorter.

Gauge – 14 stitches and 24 rows in 4 x 4 inches/10 x 10 cm measured in the ripples and ridges stitch pattern.

The supplies you need…

Yarn

The Cotton (from We Are Knitters) is in four colors.
Yarn A = Terracotta x (1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4)
Yarn B = Copper x (1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4)
Yarn C = Taupe x (1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4)
Yarn D = Natural x (1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4)
This yarn is 3.5 oz/100g/232 yds/212 m.
Use my code – MGM4VHHAT – for 10 off on your WAK yarn order.
Aran/worsted yarn/10-ply yarn.
The total amount needed for each size in yards is 928, 1,856, 1,856, 2,784, 2,784, and 3,712.
Cotton yarn is a great option for making your own poncho.

Needle Size

5 mm (US size 8) Knitting needles
I used a circular needle because there were many stitches.
The pieces are knit flat back and forth – not in the round.

Notions

Scissors
Darning needle/yarn needle
Tape measure

ripples and ridges knitted poncho — You can view the crochet hat pattern here – Sun Hat Crochet Pattern

Knitting Abbreviations

Approx – Approximately
Beg – Beginning
Cont – Continue(ing)
K – Knit
K2tog – Knit the next two stitches together (Decrease)
P – Purl
Rem – Remaining
Rep – Repeat
RS – Right side
SSK – Slip Slip Knit (Decrease)
St(s) – Stitch(es)
WS – Wrong side
YO – Yarn over

Poncho Knitting Pattern Instructions

This stitch pattern is worked in multiples of 13 stitches.

Make two pieces the same (They are both one long rectangle).

With Yarn A cast on 78 (91, 104, 117, 130, 143) sts.

Row 1 (RS): Knit
Rows 2 (WS) and 3: Knit
Row 4: Purl
Row 5: *K4, (YO, K1) 5 times, YO, K4; rep from * to end.
Row 6: Purl
Row 7: *(K2tog) 3 times, K7, (SSK) 3 times; Rep from * to end.
Row 8: Knit
Yarn B – Rep rows 1-8
Yarn C – Rep Rows 1-8
Yarn D – Rep Rows 1-8

Continue to repeat rows 1-8, changing yarn color to start every new repeat section from Yarn A to Yarn D until the piece measures 27 (29, 33, 39, 47, 57) inches/68.5 (73.5, 84, 99, 119, 145) cm.

You can, of course, adjust the length for your size if you wish for it to be longer.

You may want to block your finished poncho before you start to seam it together and finish it off.

knitted poncho ripples and ridges stitch

Making Up

Sew the cast-off edge of one piece to the side edge of the other piece, as shown in the diagram below.

You may need to leave a vent on each side of the neck edge to allow your head to fit through the hole.

Leave a vent/opening of 2 inches or 3 inches on either side.

Fold the excess inside the poncho neckline and catch down on the wrong side/inside with a couple of stitches.

This gives the neckline a nice turnover and shape, allowing your head to pass easily through the hole to take on and off.

Poncho making up diagram — Simple construction poncho diagram.

Neck Opening

Leave a neck opening on either side of the neckline for around 2-3 inches.

Seam the turned-over edge from the neck opening to create a neat rolled-over edge along the neckline.

You can see the finished neck edge here, which creates a slightly wider open collar.

Great Tips For Your Poncho

Creating a cotton light knitted poncho can be a rewarding project with the right approach.

Here are some tips to ensure success:

Choose the Right Yarn: Opt for 100% cotton or a cotton blend yarn that’s lightweight and breathable. This will ensure your poncho is comfortable and suitable for warm weather.
Gauge Swatch: Knit a gauge swatch to determine the correct needle size for your yarn. This helps ensure your poncho will have the right dimensions and fit.
Loose Tension: Keep your tension relaxed to maintain the light and airy quality of the fabric. Tight knitting can make the poncho feel heavy and less breathable.
Stitch Pattern: Select a stitch pattern that complements the cotton yarn, like the ripples and ridges pattern, which adds texture without adding bulk.
Seamless Design: Consider a seamless or minimal-seam design to keep the poncho comfortable and avoid chafing. Circular needles can be useful for this purpose.
Edge Finishing: Pay attention to the finishing touches, such as neat edges and secure weaving in of ends, to give your poncho a polished look.
Blocking: Block your poncho after knitting to even out the stitches and achieve the desired shape and drape. Use a gentle, non-rinse wool wash suitable for cotton.

By following these tips, you’ll create a stylish and comfortable cotton poncho that’s perfect for the beach or any casual outing.

Could You Share Your Work With Us…

I would love to see your finished knitting project on social media.

If you enjoyed making the gorgeous poncho knitting pattern, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, be sure to tag me @handylittleme.

If you are on Facebook, stop over to the Handylittleme Facebook Group and share a photo and meet a vibrant community of real people.

You can also check out my Facebook page here.

You can also find us on Pinterest, Ravelry, and Twitter.

I’d love to see your work.

Happy Knitting!

What Is The Best Yarn For Knitting A Poncho?

The best yarn for knitting a poncho depends on the desired use, season, and look of the poncho.

Here are some top choices:

Wool: Ideal for winter ponchos, wool is warm, insulating, and has great stitch definition. It’s perfect for a cozy, thick poncho.
Cotton: Perfect for summer or beach ponchos, cotton is breathable, lightweight, and comfortable. It works well for lighter garments and those with an airy texture. Try a color block poncho in summer hues.
Acrylic: A versatile and affordable option, acrylic yarn is easy to care for and comes in a wide range of colors. It’s a good choice for those with wool allergies. Try a DK yarn/lightweight yarn and experiment with colors; choose an ombre yarn for easy color changes.
Wool Blends: Combining wool with fibers like silk, alpaca, or cashmere can add softness and drape while retaining warmth and durability.
Linen: Another excellent choice for warm weather, linen is cool, absorbent, and creates a beautiful drape. It softens with washing and wear.
Bamboo: Bamboo yarn is eco-friendly, soft, and has a lovely sheen. It’s a good option for lightweight, breathable ponchos.
Silk: Silk adds luxury and drape, making it great for elegant ponchos. It’s often blended with other fibers to enhance its properties.

When choosing yarn, consider the season, the level of warmth needed, and any personal preferences or sensitivities.

The right yarn will ensure your versatile poncho is comfortable, functional, and beautiful.

What Stitch Is Best For A Poncho?

The best stitch for a poncho depends on the desired look, texture, and warmth.

Here are some popular stitch options for ponchos:

Garter Stitch: Simple and stretchy, garter stitch creates a warm and squishy fabric. It’s excellent for beginners and gives a rustic, cozy look.
Stockinette Stitch: This classic stitch, with its smooth side and bumpy reverse side, creates a sleek and even fabric. It’s great for showcasing yarn texture and color.
Ribbing (K1, P1 or K2, P2): Ribbing adds stretch and elasticity, making the poncho fit comfortably around the neck and edges.
Moss or Seed Stitch: These stitches create a textured, nubby fabric that is visually interesting and warm. They add a sophisticated touch to the poncho.
Ripple or Chevron Stitch: Adding a wave-like pattern, ripple stitches provide a dynamic texture and are perfect for a playful, bohemian look.
Lace Stitches: For a lighter, airier poncho, lace stitches create open, decorative patterns that are perfect for warmer weather or layering.
Cable Stitches: Cables add a three-dimensional, intricate pattern that looks impressive and provides extra warmth. Ideal for winter ponchos.
Basketweave Stitch: This stitch gives a sturdy, textured fabric that mimics the appearance of a woven basket, adding both visual interest and warmth.
Ripple and Ridges Stitch: This stitch adds a unique texture with a combination of raised and indented rows, perfect for creating visual interest and a cozy feel.

Choose a stitch pattern that complements the yarn, suits the season, and matches your skill level.

The right stitch can elevate the style and functionality of your poncho.

How Much Yarn Is Needed For A Poncho?

The amount of yarn needed for a poncho depends on several factors, including the size of the poncho, the yarn weight, the stitch pattern, and the desired length.

Here are some general guidelines:

Adult Poncho:
- DK Weight Yarn: Approximately 1000-1500 yards (900-1400 meters).
- Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 800-1200 yards (730-1100 meters).
- Bulky Weight Yarn: Approximately 600-1000 yards (550-900 meters).
Child Poncho:
- DK Weight Yarn: Approximately 600-1000 yards (550-900 meters).
- Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 500-800 yards (450-730 meters).
- Bulky Weight Yarn: Approximately 400-700 yards (370-640 meters).
Factors Affecting Yarn Quantity:
- Stitch Pattern: More complex patterns like cables or lace may require more yarn.
- Poncho Length: Longer ponchos will need more yarn.
- Yarn Brand and Fiber: Different brands and fibers can vary in yardage per skein, so check the label for yardage information.

It’s always a good idea to buy an extra skein of yarn to ensure you have enough for your project.

Additionally, checking specific pattern requirements can give you a more accurate estimate based on the design you are following.

Can New Knitters Make A Poncho?

Yes, new knitters can definitely make a poncho! Ponchos are a great project for beginners because they are generally simple in construction and forgiving in fit.

Here are some tips for new knitters to successfully create a poncho:

Choose a Simple Pattern: Look for a beginner-friendly pattern that uses simple stitches like garter stitch or stockinette stitch. Avoid complex shaping or intricate stitch patterns for your first project.
Use Chunky Yarn and Large Needles: Chunky yarn (like super bulky yarn or bulky yarn) and large needles make the knitting process faster and easier, and the larger stitches are easier to see and correct if you make a mistake.
Start with a Rectangular Poncho: Many poncho patterns are made from two rectangles sewn together, which is a straightforward construction method. This avoids complex shaping and allows you to focus on your knitting.
Watch Tutorials: There are many online resources, including videos and tutorials, that can help you learn new techniques and understand the easy poncho pattern instructions.
Practice Basic Techniques: Ensure you are comfortable with casting on, knitting, purling, and binding off. These are the fundamental skills needed for most poncho patterns.
Take Your Time: Knitting is a relaxing and enjoyable hobby. Don’t rush the process; take your time to ensure your stitches are even and you understand each step of the pattern.
Ask for Help: Join knitting communities online or in person, where you can ask questions and get advice from more experienced knitters.

By choosing a simple pattern (like a garter stitch rectangle or stockinette rib) and taking it step by step, new knitters can successfully create a beautiful poncho and gain confidence in their knitting skills.

What Do You Need To Knit A Beach Poncho?

To make knit ponchos, you’ll need several essential craft supplies, like all handmade pieces.

First and foremost, select a suitable yarn that is lightweight, breathable, and ideally quick-drying, such as cotton or linen blends, to ensure comfort in warm weather.

Additionally, you’ll require appropriate knitting needles, typically in a size suitable for the chosen yarn weight.

Circular needles may be preferable for larger projects like ponchos, as they can accommodate a large number of stitches comfortably.

To find the accurate needle size check out the yarn label of your skein.

You’ll also need basic knitting tools like a stitch marker, a tape measure, and a yarn needle for finishing touches.

Don’t forget to have a pair of scissors handy for cutting yarn as needed.

Also, add some embellishments like buttons. With these supplies on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to knit a stylish and practical beach poncho to add to your closet.

How To Measure For A Knit Poncho?

For a better fit, take note of your measurements.

Here’s how to measure for a knit beach poncho:

Bust Measurement: Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, making sure it’s parallel to the ground and not too tight or too loose. Note down this measurement in cm bust or inches.
Length Measurement: Decide how long you want your beach poncho to be. Measure from the top of your shoulder down to your desired length, whether it’s hip-length, thigh-length, or longer.
Width Measurement: Determine how wide you want your poncho to be. You can measure from one shoulder across your chest to the other shoulder for a standard width, or you can measure from the middle of your chest to the edge of your arm for a more oversized look.
Armhole Depth: Measure from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the armhole to start. This will determine how much coverage you have under the arms.
Neckline Depth (Optional): If you want a deeper or shallower neckline, measure from the base of your neck down to where you want the neckline to end.
Consider Ease: Keep in mind that beach ponchos are often designed to be loose and flowy, so you may want to add a bit of ease to your measurements for a comfortable fit.

By taking these measurements, you’ll be able to customize your knit beach poncho to fit your body shape and style preferences perfectly.

How To Wear A Knit Summer Poncho?

A knit poncho will offer you sun protection on long days by the poolside, and it’s a lot more comfortable than sitting around with a wet towel wrapped around you.

A knit boho beach poncho offers versatile styling options for your summer wardrobe.

One chic way to wear it is as a lightweight layering piece over a simple tank top or camisole paired with shorts or cropped pants, creating a relaxed and effortless look perfect for casual outings or beach strolls.

You can also wear the poncho as a beach cover-up, draping it over your swimsuit for added coverage and style.

For a more polished ensemble, layer the poncho over a sleeveless dress or maxi dress, cinching it at the waist with a belt to create definition and showcase your figure, the perfect outfit for a summer night bonfire or an evening walk.

Alternatively, wear the poncho off one shoulder for a bohemian-inspired look or drape it loosely over both shoulders for a cozy and relaxed vibe.

Experimenting with different styling options allows you to showcase your personal style while staying cool and comfortable in your knit summer poncho.

Summer Knitting Patterns

Check out the projects below to find a new pattern for the summer.

Knitting Lessons

If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out these posts here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.

Including how to cast on, how to bind off, how to knit the basic knit stitches, how to knit the knit stitch, how to knit the purl stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, the mattress stitch, short rows, how to yarn over (yo), how to measure gauge, how to fix knitting mistakes, and a list of knitting abbreviations (UK + US terms), and more.

For an easy level knitting pattern, check out this pattern category for more recommendations – Beginner Knitters

And if you need more video tutorials to help you practice your basic knitting skills, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

More Patterns You May Be Interested In…

Check out the patterns below for quick knit and more unique gift ideas.

2 Comments

Jacqueline coxon says:

June 10, 2024 at 12:34 pm

Is the ripples and ridges poncho double knit or Aran or can you use either

1. Louise Bollanos says:
  
  June 11, 2024 at 6:49 am
  
  Hello Jacqueline,
  I used worsted weight cotton yarn for this pattern.
  You could make a gauge swatch in your chosen yarn to see if it matches or is close.
  If you use DK yarn you will have to improvise for the size – go up a size or two to compensate for using a lighter yarn weight.
  With an aran yarn you could make a size smaller than you would normally make as this is a slightly thicker yarn weight.
  You could also experiment with going up or down a needle size.
  Happy knitting!
  Louise