Bilberry Fingerless Mitts

Bilberry Fingerless Mitts by Say! Little Hen

What is Being Made

The Bilberry Fingerless Mitts are a pair of women's fingerless gloves designed by Sarah Price. These mitts feature decorative bands of bilberry leaf motifs that wrap around the hand, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional warmth. The finished length is approximately 17cm, making them a practical accessory for keeping hands warm while leaving fingers free for dexterity and tactile tasks.

Construction Method

These mitts are constructed using a combination of knitting techniques that eliminate the need for seaming. The pattern employs both flat knitting and in-the-round knitting methods, allowing for seamless construction with minimal finishing work required. This hybrid approach streamlines the finishing process while maintaining a professional appearance.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Stocking Stitch: The primary stitch used throughout the mitts, providing a smooth, classic fabric base
• Knit through the back loop (K1tbl): Used to create twisted stitches that add texture and definition to the colourwork
• Stranded colourwork: Bilberry leaf patterns are created using the stranded technique, where yarn colours are carried inside the fabric, creating extra insulation and warmth
• Colour work patterning: The bilberry leaf design is worked as an engaging colour pattern that maintains knitter interest throughout the project

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for 4-ply weight yarn, specifically two 50g balls of WOOLganic Merino—one in Grapefruit and one in Gondwana (or a chosen colour alternative). The yarn weight is also referred to as fingering weight. Knitters may substitute with any 4-ply or fingering weight wool that achieves the correct tension. 3.25mm needles are required to achieve the specified tension of 16 stitches and 18 rows over 5cm (2 inches) in stocking stitch.

Sizing and Fit

The Bilberry Fingerless Mitts are offered in one size designed to fit women's hands. The finished length is approximately 17cm. The pattern provides the option to extend the cuffs by working additional stocking stitch across the colourwork pattern if a longer cuff is desired.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced difficulty, reflecting the complexity of managing stranded colourwork and the combination of flat and in-the-round knitting techniques. Knitters should be comfortable with colour work tension management and transitioning between different knitting methods.