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30 FREE Poncho & Cape Patterns


**Please scroll down the page for the links to the free patterns**


Make a fabric poncho with this collection of thirty free fabric poncho patterns, tutorials, and diy sewing projects gathered from all over the web!

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**Please scroll down the page for the links to the free patterns**


So, what exactly is a poncho and how does it differ from a cape? Well, both are unstructured outer garments that are meant hang loosely from the shoulders. And both are usually constructed from one piece of fabric.

A poncho, however, is usually an uncut square of fabric (which gives it an asymmetrical hem) and has a hole in the center for your head to go through. A cape, on the other hand, tends to be made from a circle of fabric, may have sleeves, and usually has a front opening. Capes tend to also be dressier than ponchos.

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So why choose to wear a poncho instead of a traditional fitted coat or jacket? Because its unstructured shape and loose fit can feel more comfortable than a fitted coat or jacket, especially when wearing a bulky sweater. Plus, a poncho can be quick and easy to put on and take off. And it can be the perfect outer garment for between seasons, when you still need a jacket outdoors, yet it's not quite cold enough for a heavy coat. Also, the unstructured look of a poncho tends to have a more “artsy” or eclectic feel to it, which can be great if that's your fashion style.

And because of its simple construction, a poncho can be a great first sewing project for a beginner. It's a garment that won't need fitting, and if you sew it from a knit fabric, you may not even need to hem the raw edges. And because a poncho is so simple, it'll be quick to make, giving the new sewer an immediate sense of satisfaction that comes from completing a project.

And another thing that's great about a poncho is it can be successfully sewn from a variety of fabrics. Feel free to sew your poncho from a light weight, drapey fabric, a knit fabric, fleece, or a heavier weight wool.

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Also, this page may contain affiliate links, which means I may make a commission if you purchase something from one of these websites (but the patterns linked to should be free).


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Free Poncho & Cape Patterns