Forsythia by Elizabeth Smith

Craft: Knitting

This pattern is available on Ravelry.  

Pulling inspiration from a modern earth-tone palette, this Spring collection from Elizabeth Smith uses clean, simple lines and floral eyelet details to create light, transitional layers that are as easy to knit as they are to wear. Top-down or bottom-up, garment or accessory, Elizabeth’s thoughtfully crafted collection for Manos del Uruguay is sure to have something that will please!

Forsythia uses asymmetrical visual details and an interesting hi/low split hem construction to give the classic poncho a modern twist. The Silk Blend yarn provides not only softness and sheen, but also a pretty stitch definition that is showcased in the asymmetrical eyelets. The simple, seamless construction is paired with short-row-shaped shoulders for a flattering fit that creates a garment that can be worn either with more ease for a poncho-like fit, or less ease for a more sweater-vest fit.

Sizes

Finished Bust Circumference: 40¾ (50, 59, 68¼)”

Length: 26 (27, 28, 29)” at center back, and 2¾” less at center front Poncho shown measures 50”.

Note: This garment has an oversized fit and is intended to be worn with 9” to 15” of positive ease; for a more sweater-like fit, choose a size with less ease.

Yarn

Manos del Uruguay SILK BLEND (70% extrafine merino wool, 30% silk; approx. 150 yds/50 g):

6 (8, 9, 11) sks. Shown in 300X Topaz

Needles & Notions

Two US 6/4mm 32” circular needles, or size needed to obtain gauge

US 5/3.75mm 16” circular needle

Stitch markers

Scrap yarn

Tapestry needle

Gauge

21 sts and 31 rows = 4”/10cm in St st using larger needles, after blocking.

Notes

The lower body begins with back and front split hems worked separately in rows. The hems are joined for working the lower body in the round to the underarms. The upper back and front are worked separately in rows, using short rows to shape the shoulders which are then joined with a three needle bind-off.