10 Knitted Capelet Patterns

These free knitting patterns for capelets will leave you wondering why you haven't knit one yet!

By: Kristi Levy, Editor, AllFreeKnitting.com

When you think of popular knitting patterns of years past, ponchos certainly had their time in the sun. One type of pattern that has never picked up quite as much steam is its younger sister, the capelet. Knitted capelet patterns, for the uninitiated, are essentially mini ponchos, which usually cover less of the body and serve to warm mainly the shoulders and upper arms. Sometimes they're knit with hoods, and sometimes with turtlenecks, but they all ultimately share the same quality of being a smaller, more manageable poncho.

Knitted capelets are great for people who don't have the time or patience to tackle a full poncho, or who otherwise just don't find themselves needing the extra warmth all the way down their arms. It certainly doesn't hurt that, since you never see a knitted capelet around, you'll stand out from the crowd as a fashion-savvy free-thinker. Personally, I just love how they exude witchy vibes. Check out these knitted capelet patterns to see if you'll fall as in-love with them as I have!

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Rosy Red Riding Hood Cape

Why don't we start with the most iconic capelet of all time? The Rosy Red Riding Hood Cape is simply magical with its fairy tale vibes. If you're just looking for a knitting pattern for a Halloween costume, you may be find yourself wearing this all year-round.

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Asymmetric Wrap Poncho

This knitting pattern is perfect for transitional weather. Whether you've braved the winter and you're heading into spring, or autumn is rearing its head, you'll find this knit cloak pattern to be a staple in your wardrobe for the majority of the year.

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Mountain Capelet

Everything about knitted capelet patterns like these is perfectly suited to cold weather. Turtleneck? Check. Super bulky yarn? Check. Minimalist color palette? Check. Get ready to be crowned fashionista of the year wherever you wear this Mountain Capelet.

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Sophisticated Knitted Capelet

Cathy Payson's designs are always lovely, but this one in particular just exudes elegance and refinement. The recommendedd yarn gives this knit cape pattern a very intentional look to it, boasting stripes without the hassle of changing yarn.

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Urban Fairytale Cape

This is my all-time favorite knitting pattern. Bear in mind that I've created my own patterns. The Urban Fairytale Cape is everything you want out of a capelet: it's warm, it has dedicated armholes for mobility, it has a turtleneck for extra coziness, and it has a beautiful, contemporary construction.

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Midnight Rendezvous Capelet

If you're looking for a basic knitted capelet that will match with any part of your wardrobe but still look sleek and stylish, the Midnight Rendezvous Capelet is for you. The buttons help to make it extra easy to take off, so you don't have to ruin your hair, either.

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Fog Chaser Knit Cape

For something a little more modern, this Fog Chaser Knit Cape will do the trick. Since you use super bulky yarn to make this knit cape pattern, it works up very quickly. The mix of colors in the yarn also give it a unique flair.

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4 Seasons Capelet

As the name implies, this knit cloak pattern lends itself perfectly to any season. You can wear it over your bathing suit as a layering piece over a lightweight top in the spring, a beach cover-up in the summer, a windbreaker alternative in the autumn, and a layering piece for extra warmth in the winter.

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Mixed Greens Capelet

Is this not the coolest knitting pattern you've ever seen? Novelty yarn can be hit-or-miss when it comes to the finished product, often looking better on the skein than as, say, a scarf, but something about this just works. The fun texture paired with the button detailing is just so whimsical.

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Knit Dragon Wing Cape

If you're not afraid to let your creative side shine, the Knit Dragon Wing Cape is for you. Fantasy lovers and knitting lovers alike will find themselves totally smitten with this striped beauty.

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