The Laura Poncho, designed by Tomomi Landsman, is an ideal project for anyone seeking a combination of warmth, style, and simplicity in their crochet work. This big, drapey poncho uses the beautiful checkering effect of the Herringbone Double Crochet (HBdc) stitch to create a piece that’s versatile enough to complement any wardrobe. Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or still building your skills, the Laura Poncho offers an engaging and rewarding crafting experience. Let’s explore how to bring this stunning piece to life!
A Touch of Creativity in Every Stitch
When designing the Laura Poncho, Tomomi Landsman aimed to create a balance between texture and ease of wear. The checkering pattern not only adds visual interest but also helps maintain the drapey feel of the poncho, giving it a luxurious yet cozy look. The simplicity of alternating colors throughout the rows lets the yarn shine, resulting in a rich and elegant finish.
Materials Needed
Gather the following materials to crochet your own Laura Poncho:
- Yarn Choices:
- Amano Warmi in Radiant Orchid (6014), 4 skeins (656 yards) for Color A.
- Manos del Uruguay Allegria Grande in Eggplant, 3 skeins (600 yards) for Color B.
These specific colors create a vibrant contrast, but feel free to choose your own combinations to match your style.
- Hook: 6 mm crochet hook, or any size necessary to achieve the correct gauge.
- Other Supplies: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and optionally, stitch markers to help keep track of your rows.
Measurements and Gauge
To ensure the right fit, your finished poncho should measure approximately 23 inches in depth and 26 inches in width when laid flat. Gauge is particularly important in this project to maintain the poncho’s drape:
- Gauge: 15 stitches and 11 rows = 4 inches in Herringbone Double Crochet.
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch: chain
- HBdc: Herringbone double crochet
- sl st: slip stitch
- yo: yarn over
The Key Technique: Herringbone Double Crochet (HBdc)
The main feature of this poncho is the Herringbone Double Crochet stitch. This elegant stitch offers a unique texture that’s both classic and modern. Here’s how to create it:
- Yo, and insert your hook into the indicated stitch.
- Pull through the stitch and then through the first loop on your hook, leaving two loops on the hook.
- Yo, pull through the first loop again, keeping two loops on your hook.
- Yo, and pull through both loops to complete the stitch.
This stitch creates a subtle diagonal texture that adds visual appeal without being overly complicated. Once you get into the rhythm of this stitch, you’ll find it moves along quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Below is an outline of the pattern’s basic structure to give you a preview of what to expect. A complete and detailed version of the pattern, including finishing tips and specific counts, is available through the link below.
Full Pattern: Click Here
Color Management Tips
Throughout the pattern, you’ll alternate between Colors A and B. A helpful technique is to crochet over the unused color, which keeps it hidden and ready for the next color change. This technique also reduces the number of yarn tails to weave in at the end, making the finishing process quicker and cleaner.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
Here’s a brief look at how the Laura Poncho comes together:
- Foundation Chain: Start with a chain of 202 stitches using Color A. This long chain forms the base of your poncho and sets the stage for the checkered design.
- Building the Checkered Pattern: The pattern consists of alternating blocks of five HBdc stitches in Color A and five in Color B. Always change colors in the final step of the last HBdc in each block, carrying the unused color underneath your stitches to keep it neatly concealed.
- Creating the Poncho Shape: Work rows until you’ve completed a total of 58 rows. This repetition builds the body of the poncho with its signature checkered pattern.
- Joining the Edges: Fold the piece in half, aligning the beginning and end of the last row, and use slip stitches to join these edges together, forming the neck opening. The simple seaming technique creates a polished finish with minimal bulk.
Additional Tips for Success
- Gauge Check: Be sure to check your gauge early to avoid surprises with sizing. The Herringbone Double Crochet stitch can sometimes cause tension variations, so it’s good to verify your stitches against the gauge before moving on.
- Yarn Substitution: If you’re using different yarns or colors, test a small swatch to ensure that the color transitions blend smoothly and that the yarns have similar textures and weights.
Styling the Laura Poncho
One of the great things about the Laura Poncho is its versatility. Wear it casually over jeans and a sweater for a relaxed day out, or pair it with a simple dress for a more polished look. The classic drape and checkered pattern offer just the right amount of visual interest to elevate any outfit.
Embrace the Journey
The Laura Poncho is more than just a crochet project—it’s an opportunity to create something unique and beautiful. The rhythm of the Herringbone Double Crochet, the smooth color changes, and the luxurious drape all contribute to a satisfying crafting experience. Once finished, you’ll have a piece that not only keeps you warm but also showcases your creativity and skill.
So, grab your yarn and hook, and start creating this cozy and stylish poncho! Happy crocheting!
