North Isle Gansey Poncho

by Fran Jepperson

Ganseys or Guernseys are the traditional hand-knitted pullovers worn by the fishermen of the British Isles.  The patterns themselves are easy enough to knit, consisting of nothing more complicated than knits, purls, and cable stitches — but there is endless beauty and visual complexity in the infinite ways these stitches can be worked in combination. Our version uses just knits and purls, and is simple enough for an advanced beginner yet interesting enough for the more experienced knitter.

Yarn:  7 skeins Fidalgo Artisan Yarn’s Merino 840 (100% Superwash Merino Wool. 100g = 187yds) or equivalent Aran-weight yarn.

Needles, Hooks, and Notions:  US 5 (4mm) 32-inch circular needle or size to obtain gauge, stitch markers, tapestry needle.