Don't believe the hater-hype: the death of the poncho has been greatly exaggerated. Especially if we're talking about the kinds of ponchos in Viva Poncho, a book of 20 poncho and capelet patterns to knit. Designed by the uber-cool team of Christina Stork, proprietor of the hipster knitting ship Article Pract in Oakland, California, and Leslie Barbazette, DIY-diva and creator of the Citizen Bags line of bags and accessories (you've seen 'em in Bust), these ain't no prison ponchos. Done in a wide range of styles, many of the patterns utilize ribbony, lightweight yarns and open stitches, making for quick-knit projects that will yield perfect summer evening cover-ups. But even if you feel like you'll choke if you see one more 'cho, the book also features a good number of patterns for that quirky younger sister of the poncho- the capelet. Among these is Ruby, a one-piece capelet done in a feathery but simple stitch that includes a lil' red riding hood and is tied with a ribbon. It's so dang cute, your fingers will just ache to make it. There is even a capelet pattern for dogs! And of course, there are a good number of gorgeous heavier-weight wraps and cover-ups that feature cozy cables, leaf motifs, or straight-up stripes, and can be whipped up by folks at every level of knit-ablilty, from brand-new beginner to wizened old pro. Snag a copy and bust a capelet on that ass. [Debbie Stoller]
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