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The Inspiration:
The inspiration behind this design was to create a simple accent piece that could pair with any outfit. This poncho was also created to be a perfect transition piece for fall to winter. This design was also made to be a great beginner-friendly garment; especially for new crocheters who have not made a garment before.
The Name
As like many of my designs, I draw inspiration from the environment. I also try to raise awareness of issues through my designs and social media. This poncho was named the Najin Poncho named after Najin, one of the last two surviving Northern white rhinos. Najin and her daughter Fatu are the last Northern white rhinos left in the whole world. Personally, I have been following this research for many years. I even wrote a paper a few years ago for school based on the research being conducted to save this species.
As a native San Diegan, I have frequented the San Diego Zoo. Currently researches of the San Diego Zoo Global have been creating a surrogacy program with Southern white rhinos to save this species. In 2019, a Southern white rhino calf was born via artificial insemination, proving that this species could successfully bear offspring via surrogacy. This year a second calf was born, a girl appropriately named Future. If you’d like to learn more about this research you can find more information via The San Diego Zoo Global and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Check out my great testers’ photos!
How to style this poncho
This poncho is a great versatile piece that could be warn in the summer or fall. It is lightweight enough to wear in the summertime over a t-shirt for sun protection. You can also layer this poncho over a long sleeved shirt or sweater in the cooler months. I live in San Diego where we don’t experience very cool temperatures. I plan to layer my poncho over a light long sleeve for extra warmth.
Materials:
This pattern uses DK weight #3 yarn. The recommended yarn is Comfy Cotton Blend by Lion Brand. Approx. yardage 648 (720, 792, 871, 958, 1054, 1,160, 1,275, 1,400) yards for MC and approx. 64 (71, 78, 88, 94, 103, 114, 125, 138) yards for CC. This yarn is a 50/50 cotton and polyester blend. I love working with this yarn because it is lightweight and breathable. It also holds together well for a cotton yarn. I also used a size I/5.5 mm crochet hook.
How to get the pattern
You can download this pattern from Ravelry or Etsy. I offer the pattern in both shops. The pattern is an ad-free, easy to follow PDF that also includes images of the finished piece. This pattern is also size inclusive and offered in sized XS- 5XL.
I have truly enjoyed creating this piece and I am very happy to be able to incorporate something else that I am passionate about. I would love to see your finished piece. Use the hashtag #NajinPoncho and share it with me on social media.
Happy Stitching,
Jess