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finally, a poncho
A couple of years ago, when ponchos came back into fashion, I started looking for a poncho to make for myself. I can’t even begin to tell you how many books, magazines, and websites I have searched looking for just the right poncho pattern. I’ve probably looked at hundreds (and hundreds) of patterns. Finally, I have found what I’ve been looking for!
I wanted to make myself a poncho that I could just throw on anytime I needed something over my shoulders to keep them warm. My fibromyalgia causes my shoulders to hurt a lot, almost constantly. I have found if I keep my shoulders warm they don’t ache quite as much. I’ve been using the ThermaCare patches that are made for the neck and shoulders as portable heat pads basically ~ but they are a bit expensive (I cut one patch in half and use a half on each shoulder, but still…).
There are a LOT of poncho patterns out there, let me tell you! I’ve been looking for one that is cute without being trendy OR too old fashioned, warm without being solid, light without being too airy, and long enough to cover my shoulders without being too long or too short. I know, it’s a tall order to fill. This morning I had some time to sit at my desk and fiddle around because we were having our carpets cleaned, so I started looking at poncho patterns (again). It doesn’t really matter to me whether it’s a knitted or crocheted poncho ~ I figure I’m being picky enough as it is about the poncho itself, so I can be a little bit flexible as to which method I use to make it.
During my search this morning, I came across the pattern for this capelet:
It’s perfect! I’ve already started crocheting it.
It’s not everyday that I come across a crochet or knitting pattern that has a stitch or step in it that I’ve never even heard of, much less done. I don’t mean that as a brag ~ it’s just that I’ve been knitting and crocheting for 30 years, and there aren’t a lot of things that can be knitted or crocheted that I haven’t tried. Well, ok, I admit I’ve never knitted or crocheted undergarments or a bathing suit, but that’s about it! 
This pattern calls for a double-base chain, which I’d never heard of before. I followed the instructions, and actually it’s really easy once you figure out what you’re basically doing is making your beginning chain out of single crochet (sc) stitches. Weird, I know, but it works, and I’ve learned something new!
I’ll post a picture of my new poncho/capelet once it’s finished.
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I’ve never heard of a double based chain either, Trish, and I’ve been crocheting for 30 years too. Hmmm.
I went on a poncho spree year before last and made them for everyone I know. I found a simple pattern in a book. I like the one you’re making. Cute!
Merry Christmas!
Whew! I’m glad I’m not the only one who had never heard of that stitch. It makes a pretty cool beginning chain, though. I may find other uses for it in the future.
Merry Christmas to you too, Barb!
Merry Christmas to you and your Family! I especially wanted to stop by and tell you that I am especially appreciative of your love & supportive comments this past year. I can’t even begin to explain how encouraging they were when I could barely thinking of getting through the day.
BTW, that capelet is beautiful! I’ve always wanted one, too
…and I fully agree that it’s cute without the trendy look 
Absolutely beautiful!!
Hugs, Tamara
http://www.TrainingHearts.com
Wow – you are so talented!
Lovely pattern. I can’t wait to see it! Wish I knew how to crochet. Want to come teach me? Morgan would like to learn, too.