When making a crochet poncho, there are some tips that one can follow to make sure that the end product will be exactly what the crocheter has in mind. Using the right size yarn, hook, and stitches can determine whether a project turns out perfect or unusable. Finding an accurate, easy to follow pattern is a must for anyone interested in making a crochet poncho, unless the crocheter is comfortable with altering patterns or making up a pattern by him or herself. Crocheters can often find free sample patterns and plenty of quality patterns in crochet magazines and craft stores. There are also several websites that offer free or purchasable individual patterns available for shipping or download.
There is a huge selection of crochet poncho styles that range from easy to advanced projects. A crochet poncho can be a great beginner's project, due to the often simple construction that does not usually require fitting sleeves or a waistline. Sometimes, however, complicated stitches may be too difficult for a beginner. A crocheter is most likely to be successful choosing a pattern difficulty level that is appropriate for his or her skill, as advanced crocheters may prefer a more intricate stitch while beginners may not be able to follow an advanced pattern.
At the beginning of a project, one should make a small swatch using the yarn, hook, and stitch he or she plans to use for the rest of the project. Most of the time, patterns provide a way to gauge whether or not the finished project will be the correct size based on the number of stitches required to fill a certain area. For instance, a pattern might use a gauge of ten stitches per 2 inches. If ten stitches is much shorter or longer than the recommended gauge, the poncho will likely be too large or too small. If this is the case, one can adjust the gauge by using a different thickness of yarn or a larger or smaller hook.
Thicker yarn has a tendency to add a weightier look to the poncho, and may give the illusion of a bulkier body. When crocheting for a specific person, one should keep in mind that person's body type and choose the weight of yarn that will be most flattering. Sometimes a crochet poncho can be altered to use a thinner or thicker yarn, a larger or smaller hook, and a different kind of stitch to lend a bulkier or lighter silhouette. This is also important to keep in mind when crocheting for a man, in which case a feminine, lacy stitch may not be appropriate.