Free Pattern: Step-by-Step Guide to Knit a Winter Ruana

Materials:

• 800-1000 g of 100% llama wool in dark brown (for 8 mm needles)
• 8 mm knitting needles (US 11)
• 50-100 g of llama wool in cream or natural white for the flower embroidery
• Embroidery needle
• Stitch markers
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle
• Additional dark brown wool (100-200 g) for the fringes

Gauge:

10 stitches and 14 rows = 10 cm in stockinette stitch. Adjust needle size as needed to match the gauge.

Instructions for the Pattern:

Body:

1. Cast on 90 stitches.
2. Knit in stockinette stitch until the piece measures about 75 cm long. This will form the back of the ruana.

Dividing for Front Panels:

3. Divide the stitches for the front panels:
   • Knit the first 45 stitches, leaving the remaining 45 on a stitch holder or spare needle.
   • Continue knitting the 45 stitches of the first panel until it measures 75 cm, the same length as the back.
   • Repeat the same with the remaining 45 stitches to create the second front panel.

Borders:

4. Knit a garter stitch border around the entire piece:
   • Pick up stitches around the entire edge of the ruana (including both front panels and the back) and knit 6 rows in garter stitch to create a clean edge and prevent rolling.

Fringes:

1. Cut the fringes:
   • Cut several strands of dark brown llama wool, each about 25-30 cm long (or longer if you prefer larger fringes).
2. Attach the fringes:
   • Fold each strand in half.
   • Using a crochet hook or your fingers, pull the loop through the bottom edge of the ruana.
   • Pull the ends through the loop and tighten.
   • Add fringes along the bottom edge, spacing them about 2-3 stitches apart. For a denser look, place one fringe at each stitch.

Flower Embroidery in Cream:

1. Choose the flower design:

   • Use cream llama wool to embroider simple flowers with 5-6 petals using the lazy daisy stitch. This type of stitch will give a delicate effect that beautifully contrasts with the dark brown.

2. Distribution of flowers:

   • You can embroider the flowers in specific areas of the ruana, such as the bottom edges or shoulders, or scatter them throughout the piece as desired.

3. Center of the flowers:

   • Complete the center of each flower with small French knots in cream or a contrasting color like light beige or gray.

Finishing:

• Blocking: Gently block the ruana to give it a better shape and drape.
• Weaving in ends: Use the tapestry needle to weave in any loose ends for a clean finish.

Additional Details:

• Fringes on the Sleeves (optional): If desired, you can also add fringes to the ends of the front panels or sleeves for a more complete look.

 

This pattern will give you a warm, stylish, and handmade ruana with a beautiful contrast between the dark brown and cream flowers. The fringes add a perfect bohemian touch for any season.