Checkerboard Mitts

Checkerboard Mitts by Helen Stewart

What is Being Made

Checkerboard Mitts are men's fingerless mitts designed by Helen Stewart as versatile accessories for everyday wear and professional settings. These mitts keep hands warm while allowing full finger mobility for activities such as cycling, typing, playing board games, or enjoying a coffee. The finished length is 28cm (11 inches) when unfolded, and they fit hand circumferences from 23cm (9 inches) to 27cm (10.5 inches) around the widest point of the palm, excluding the thumb.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

These fingerless mitts are knit using aran weight yarn, which makes them a relatively fast and enjoyable project to complete. The pattern employs a checkerboard stitch pattern as the primary design element, creating visual interest while maintaining the functionality of fingerless mitts. Knitters can choose between two construction methods: working on double-pointed needles (DPNs) or using the magic loop method with a long circular needle. Both approaches are suitable for this in-the-round construction.

Stitches Used

The Checkerboard Mitts pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for an intermediate skill level:

• Stockinette stitch – the primary fabric base, worked in the round
• Knit stitch (k) – the foundational stitch
• Make 1 Right (M1R) – an increase technique used for shaping, created by inserting the left needle from back to front under the strand of yarn running between the next stitch on the left needle and the last stitch on the right needle, then knitting through the front loop

Materials and Specifications

The pattern calls for Rowan Felted Tweed Aran yarn in the colorway Madras 736. This yarn is composed of 50% Merino wool, 25% Alpaca, and 25% Viscose, offering a blend of warmth, softness, and durability. Each ball contains 87 meters (95 yards) and weighs 50 grams; the project requires 2 balls total.

For needles, knitters will need 4.5mm (US 7) double-pointed needles or 4.5mm (US 7) circular needles measuring 100cm in length for the magic loop method. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 26 rows over 10cm (4 inches) in stockinette stitch. Maintaining this gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions and ensuring the mitts fit properly within the stated size range.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Checkerboard Mitts pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working in the round and executing basic increases. The straightforward construction combined with the quick-knitting properties of aran weight yarn makes this an accessible project for those looking to expand their skills beyond beginner patterns.