Kærlig mitts

Fingerless mitts for the whole family with an interesting construction method that follows the shape of the hand. Simple rib and garter stitch highlight the architectural lines and show off the subtle depth of semi-solid yarns. Using only a small amount of yarn they’re an excellent way to use up leftover sock yarn.

Lace, cables, brioche — I love to play with stitch patterns, the more intricate the better, but it still amazes me how much beauty can be found in nothing but knit and purl. (Ok, so there are a few decreases and slipped stitches in here too). The cuff is worked first and then the garter stitch for the back of the hand, which is added with a provisional cast on, decreases across the live cuff sts. Halfway around each row incorporates the garter from the back of the hand and the cuff sts that grow up the thumb, set at an angle a decrease that follows the contours of the hand. 

As the palm and thumb base are worked they’re joined to the released provisional cast on sts, with another column of slip st decreases that defines the garter stitch edge. 

A tiny kite shape gusset joins the remaining hand stitches together and ends up in exactly the right place to complete the thumb — no stitches put on hold. It also makes these ideal for all kinds of activities, I know I usually reach for fingerless mitts versus gloves or mittens when I want to use my hands! Slipped stitch I-cord like edging is one of my favourite finishes for garter stitch. Here it’s a lovely rounded way to finish the hand edge and the gusset allows it to be nice and snug, but not too tight. 

Kærlig is the second pattern in the Knitworthy 2 collection and is currently only available to subscribers. You can find out more about it and purchase a subscription here.