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Warm hands, evenings in front of the fire, and full needles are at the end of your needles. In this step-by-step tutorial, you will learn one of the most creative but practical skills: how to knit mittens.
Perfect as a beginner or refresher course, this guide will help you through each stage of the process. From the selection of materials to the formation of that all-important thumb gusset, find out how to turn out snug and fashionably relevant mittens.
Join a community of crafters and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own cases of winter warmth.
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
- From casting on to crafting the thumb gusset, knitting mittens is like building a cozy fortress for your hands – and with this guide, you’ll be the master architect in no time!
- Choosing the right materials is half the battle – whether you’re a wool warrior or a yarn yogi, picking the perfect combo of needles and fibers will set you up for mitten-making success.
- Sizing isn’t just a shot in the dark – measure twice, knit once! Your mittens should fit like a glove (pun intended), so don’t be afraid to adjust stitch counts for that Goldilocks fit.
- The thumb gusset might seem like a real head-scratcher, but fear not! With a little patience and some clever increases, you’ll be giving your mittens the thumbs up in no time.
Materials for Knitting Mittens
Knit some seriously cozy mittens with these few materials.
First, you have the yarn. For warmth options, it could be anything from fingering through DK to worsted or chunky. Wool is a great choice for warmth and durability.
Next are the needles: You’ll need them in a size consistent with your yarn weight, be it double-pointed or circular long.
You’ll also need some stitch markers to mark your place and a darning needle for sewing up the tips. You’ll also need a little waste yarn to hold the stitches.
Having these tools in hand, you’re ready to embark on your adventure of making mittens!
Casting on and Ribbing
You are ready to begin your mittens! Cast on
- Cast on using long-tail method for stretchy edge
- Tighter cuff—smaller needles
- Ensure even tension for consistent ribbing
- Use larger needles after cuff is complete
This ribbed cuff will keep your mittens snug and prevent cold air from getting in. Ready to move on?
Increasing Stitches
Now that you have done the ribbing, shape your mittens. Increasing stitches helps to fit the mittens properly around your hand. You’ll increase this width of the mitten using different increasing techniques. Let’s get into the process:
| Increase Method | Stitch Placement | Gauge Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Make One (M1) | Between stitches | Minimal |
| Knit Front Back | Into existing stitch | Slight bulge |
| Yarn Over | Between stitches | Creates hole |
Saving Thumb Stitches
Now it’s time to save those thumb stitches! You have been building your thumb gusset, and now it’s time for a little break.
Remove your markers and slip 10 stitches onto scrap yarn using a yarn needle. This creates a handy pocket for your thumb later.
For left mittens, work to marker before slipping; for right mittens, knit 3 stitches first.
Don’t worry; it looks a bit weird right now—it’ll be a mitten before you know it!
Decreasing and Finishing
Now that you have set your thumb stitches aside, you’re ready to decrease and complete the main body of your mitten. This step creates the top of the mitten so that it’s fitted. Be sure that you keep your yarn tension consistent for a professional look. Here’s what you’ll do:
*Knit one stitch, slip; knit two together for your first decrease.
- Work three plain rows before the next decrease round
- Repeat in this way until you have reduced to the desired number of stitches
Keep your eye on your gauge as you go. Soon, before you know it, you’ll have a very beautifully shaped mitten, ready to receive its thumb!
Picking Up Stitches for Thumb
Now, onto the thumb—we’re really going to get a grip on these mittens! You’ll pick up stitches around the thumb opening to create a snug fit. Consider your yarn weight when choosing your needle size.
You’ve got options for thumb shaping: basic or with decorative thumb stitches. Thumbs can be embellished, adding that special touch of colorwork or textured patterns.
Don’t forget to check thumb sizing—it should feel comfortable, neither too tight nor loose. After all, the success or failure of the functionality of your mitten relies on the thumb alone, so it had better be just right!
Hand Knitting
Now that you’ve picked up the thumb stitches, it’s time to focus on hand knitting.
You’ll work in rounds, using your chosen stitch pattern and yarn weight. Keep an eye on your tension as you go.
For fingerless mittens, simply stop knitting before reaching the fingertips.
As you progress, you’ll notice the mitten taking shape.
Don’t forget to consider your cuff design and how it transitions into the hand.
Soon, you’ll be ready to tackle the thumb gusset!
Creating Thumb Gusset
Now you get to make the thumb gusset, where all the magic happens! You’re going to create a triangular shaped section using M1 increases.
First, you need to work a few rounds with an increase made just below and just above the markers situated beside the section where you’d like to place your thumb. Then work each round making the increases just inside those markers.
Gusset shaping is worked gradually – you’ll be creating a nice, roomy opening for your thumb. Keep track of your round count – you’ll typically work 6-8 rounds of increases.
Be careful with the stitch placement so that your thumb triangle is even and fits well. Before you know it, you’ll have a perfectly shaped gusset!
Choosing the Right Needles
The most important part of selecting the right needles is getting all the information early on when planning a mitten-knitting project. You’ll need to decide on needle materials, select the appropriate size of needles, and choose double-pointed or circular needles for a mitten project.
Needle Material Options
When choosing needles for your mittens, you’ll encounter various materials. Bamboo offers a warm feel and excellent grip, perfect for beginners. Metal needles are slick and fast, ideal for experienced knitters. Plastic needles are lightweight and budget-friendly. Wood provides a balance of grip and smoothness. Consider your preferences and skill level when selecting needle materials for your mitten project.
Appropriate Needle Sizes
Now that you have chosen your needle material, let’s discuss sizes. The size of needles used impacts the fit and feel of your mittens. Consider these factors:
- Yarn weight
-
Density of the desired fabric
• Your personal knitting tension
- Pattern recommendations
Double-Pointed Vs. Circular
When choosing needles for your mittens, consider double-pointed vs. circular options. Double-pointed needles offer precise stitch placement and work well for smaller projects. Circular needles provide more flexibility and ease of use, especially for larger mittens. Both can achieve the same gauge, so pick based on your comfort level and project size. Experiment to find your perfect match!
Mitten Sizing and Casting On
Now that you’ve chosen your needles, it’s time to tackle sizing and casting on. Your mitten’s fit depends on yarn weight, needle size, and gauge. Start by measuring your hand and comparing it to a sizing chart.
For a snug fit, cast on fewer stitches; for a looser fit, cast on more. Remember, different yarn weights require adjustments in needle size and stitch count. A typical mitten might start with 40-50 stitches for worsted weight yarn on US 7 needles.
Don’t forget to check your gauge before diving in – it’s the key to perfectly-sized mittens!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What needles are best for knitting mittens?
You’ll want double-pointed needles or a long circular needle for mittens. Choose sizes that match your yarn weight – typically US 3-8 for fingering to chunky yarn. Bamboo or wooden needles offer better grip for beginners.
How many stitches do you cast on for mittens?
You’ll typically cast on 24-40 stitches for adult mittens, depending on yarn weight and desired size. For kids’ mittens, start with 20-30 stitches. Always check your pattern’s specific instructions, as stitch counts can vary.
What is the formula for knitting mittens?
Knitting mittens, like weaving a warm embrace, follows a simple formula: cast on, create a cuff, shape the hand, form a thumb gusset, and close the top. You’ll need the right yarn, needles, and patience to craft your cozy pair.
Are mittens hard to knit?
Mittens aren’t too challenging to knit. You’ll need basic skills like casting on, knitting, purling, and increasing. With practice, you’ll master shaping the thumb gusset. Start with a simple pattern and you’ll be crafting cozy mittens in no time!
How do I adjust mittens for different hand sizes?
Ah, the classic "one size fits none" dilemma! To adjust mittens, you’ll need to play with your stitch count. Measure hand circumference and length, then increase or decrease stitches accordingly. Don’t forget to tweak the thumb gusset too!
Can I add colorwork or patterns to my mittens?
Yes, you can add colorwork or patterns to your mittens! Try stranded knitting for traditional designs, or experiment with textured stitches like cables. Start with simple motifs and gradually increase complexity as you gain confidence in your skills.
Whats the best way to block knitted mittens?
Gently wash your mittens in lukewarm water with mild soap. Squeeze out excess water, reshape, and lay flat to dry. For wool mittens, pin them to a towel-covered surface to maintain shape while drying.
How do I line mittens for extra warmth?
You’d think lining mittens would be a breeze, right? To add warmth, knit a separate liner using thinner yarn and smaller needles. Attach it by sewing the edges to the inside of the main mitten. Voila! Toasty hands await.
Are there alternatives to the thumb gusset method?
Yes, you’ve got options! Try the afterthought thumb method. Just knit the mitten body, then pick up stitches later for the thumb. It’s simpler and gives you flexibility in thumb placement. Perfect for beginners or quick projects!
Conclusion
As you reach the final stitch, you’ve woven more than just yarn; you’ve crafted a shield against winter’s chill. This tutorial on how to knit mittens has guided you through each step, from selecting materials to shaping the thumb gusset.
You’ve learned to cast on, increase, decrease, and create a cozy fit. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned knitter, these skills will serve you well.
Now, with warm hands and a sense of accomplishment, you’re ready to face the frosty days ahead.
- sewingfromhome.com
