Kehrtwende

Kehrtwende Knitted Mittens by Stefanie Bold

What Is Being Made

Kehrtwende is a pair of knitted mittens with an unconventional construction designed to showcase self-patterning sock yarns. The mittens feature integrated ribbed edging at the cuff and fingers, with a unique U-shaped knitting direction that creates visual interest and allows variegated yarn colors to display prominently throughout the design.

Construction and Design Approach

These hand warmers utilize an unusual knitting method that sets them apart from traditional mitten patterns. Rather than beginning at the cuff and working downward in the conventional manner, the Kehrtwende mittens are started laterally at the cuff edge and knitted in a U-shaped direction—a construction choice that inspired the pattern's name. This sideways approach to mitten construction is particularly effective for displaying the color changes and self-striping characteristics of patterning yarns, making it an ideal choice for knitters working with variegated or self-patterning sock-weight yarn.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Garter Stitch: Used for the ribbed edging at both the cuff and finger openings, creating a textured, reversible finish
• Ribbed Knitting: Applied specifically at the thumb opening in traditional rib pattern for a fitted, elastic closure
• Sideways Construction: The defining technique of this pattern, knitting horizontally from the cuff edge in a U-shaped path rather than top-to-bottom

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern is designed for 4-ply weight yarn, making it suitable for self-patterning sock yarns that showcase color changes effectively. The intermediate difficulty level indicates that knitters should have foundational skills in basic stitches and shaping techniques before beginning this project. The sideways construction method requires attention to directional knitting but offers an engaging challenge for knitters seeking to expand their technical repertoire.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Kehrtwende pattern is appropriate for knitters with established experience in basic knitting techniques who are ready to explore unconventional construction methods. The U-shaped knitting direction and integration of multiple stitch patterns require focus and understanding of how shaping works when knitting sideways.