Martha Wissing is an amazing knitter, talented designer and a generally wonderful human being. In addition to previously owning her own yarn shop, Martha was my co-worker here at Berroco for nearly two years.* Most recently, she collaborated with Laura Zukaite in designing the first collection of patterns for AMANO Yarns.
*If my description of Martha seems effusive and biased, it probably is, but only because I know how awesome she is first-hand.
As much as we miss Martha, we’re thrilled that she has begun publishing her own designs on Ravelry! Her Red Poppy Poncho is a stylish and simple accessory knit in Berroco Inca Tweed. It is worked flat in an easy lace pattern and seamed. You can adjust the size by changing the number of stitches cast on or the number of repeats worked. The piece is finished with fringe along the flat edge, which can be worn to the side, in the front or in back.
How did you come up with this design?
I wanted to design a poncho that a new knitter would be comfortable tackling. With simple stitches repeated across long rows the fabric looks complicated, however it is very simple to do. A large rectangle requires no shaping and becomes an easy layering piece. It’s also a great project for social, TV or car trip knitting.
Is there any story behind the name?
It is named after a great coffee shop near my LYS, The Knitting Cup in Georgetown, TX. They make THE best brownies! The photos were taken in front of the coffee shop, with the fabulous fountain in the background.
How did you decide on the yarn?
I wanted a chunky weight yarn with interesting texture and Inca Tweed is spot on! I loved working with it.
What’s your favorite thing about knitting?
Knitting centers me, I love it! With beautiful yarn and some needles, everything is possible.
Do you have a cool design you want to share? Or did you recently finish a project with Berroco yarn? You can email Ashley: apalumbo@berroco.com or post it to the Berroco Lovers forum in Ravelry.