A cowl-neck poncho is the perfect blend of comfort, warmth, and effortless style. This design combines a cozy ribbed neckline with a flowing granny stitch body, creating a garment that is both modern and timeless. Worked seamlessly from the top down, this poncho is an enjoyable project that allows for easy size adjustments and beautiful color play.
This turtleneck poncho offers not only comfort but also a sophisticated look, perfect for any season. The combination of textured stitches and vibrant colors transforms this simple project into a key piece in your wardrobe.
Whether you prefer soft neutrals or bold, colorful stripes, this poncho adapts beautifully to your yarn choices. The textured ribbed cowl provides structure and warmth, while the expanding granny stitch body drapes gracefully over the shoulders.
Pattern Stitches
Rib Stitch
The ribbed texture is created using front and back post trebles, giving the cowl a stretchy and polished finish.
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Chain 1 (this does not count as a stitch)
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Alternate 1 Front Post Treble (FPTr) and 1 Back Post Treble (BPTr)
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Repeat this sequence around
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Join with a slip stitch into the beginning chain-1
Granny Stitch
This classic stitch forms the main body of the poncho and allows for smooth shaping.
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Work 3 treble crochets into the space between groups of trebles from the previous round
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Skip the next group of 3 trebles
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Repeat around
Shaping increases are made by working (3tr, ch 1, 3tr) into the chain-1 corner spaces from the previous round.
Construction Notes
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The poncho is crocheted in one continuous piece, starting at the cowl and working downward.
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A ribbed border is added at the lower edge to mirror the neckline.
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Fringe is attached after the border is completed.
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To make the poncho larger, simply continue adding additional Granny Stitch rounds before finishing the border.
Gauge / Tension
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Granny Stitch:
4 groups of 3 trebles and 6 rows = 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 in) using a 6mm hook -
Rib Stitch:
12 stitches and 9 rows = 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 in) using a 7mm hook
Gauge is important for achieving the correct drape and overall size.
Finished Measurements
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Width at widest point (folded flat): 76 cm / 30 in
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Length from base of cowl to hem (including fringe): 53 cm / 21 in
Cowl Section
Using a 7mm hook and Yarn A, chain 84 with a loose, even tension. Join with a slip stitch to the first chain, making sure the chain is not twisted.
Round 1 (Right Side)
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Chain 2 (counts as a treble crochet)
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Work 1 treble crochet into each chain
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Join with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-2
(84 stitches)
Round 2
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Chain 1 (does not count as a stitch)
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Work alternating FPTr and BPTr around
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Join with a slip stitch into the beginning chain-1
Repeat Round 2 for a total of 21 ribbed rounds.
Do not fasten off.
Turn the cowl inside out, switch to a 6mm hook, and continue with Yarn A.
Main Body
Foundation Round (Right Side)
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Chain 1 (does not count as a stitch)
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Work 1 double crochet into each stitch around
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Join with a slip stitch to the beginning chain-1
(84 stitches)
Round 1
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Chain 3 (counts as a treble crochet)
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Work 2 trebles into the same stitch
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Skip 1 stitch, work 3 trebles into the next stitch — repeat 9 times
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Skip 1 stitch, work (3tr, ch 1, 3tr) into the next stitch (corner)
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Skip 1 stitch, work (3tr, ch 1, 3tr) into the next stitch and place a stitch marker (front corner)
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Skip 1 stitch, work (3tr, ch 1, 3tr) into the next stitch and place a stitch marker (back corner)
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Skip 1 stitch, work 3 trebles into each of the next 10 stitches
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Join with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-3
(44 groups of 3 trebles)
Round 2
Join Yarn B with a slip stitch in the first space between treble groups.
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Chain 3
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Work 2 trebles into the same space
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Skip the next group of 3 trebles, work 3 trebles into the next space
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Repeat around
At each marked corner space, work (3tr, ch 1, 3tr), then remove the stitch marker.
Join with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-3.
Each round increases by two 3-treble groups, creating the poncho’s expanding shape.
Color Changes
Repeat the Granny Stitch round, changing color at the start of each round to create a striped or rainbow effect. Continue until the poncho reaches the desired length.
After completing the final round, finish with a ribbed border using the larger hook, then add fringe evenly around the hem for a playful and stylish finish.
