KI Mitts

KI Mitts by Béatrice MASE

What is Being Made

The KI Mitts are a pair of fingerless mitts designed by independent designer Béatrice MASE. These mitts are crafted using a two-color knitting technique and are available in three different sizes to accommodate hand circumferences of 7 inches, 8 inches, and 8.75 inches (18cm, 20cm, and 22cm respectively). The mitts combine colorwork with strategic shaping to create a fitted, wearable accessory.

Knitting Techniques Used

The KI Mitts are constructed using German short rows, a shaping technique that creates smooth, graduated transitions without the visible gaps that can occur with other short row methods. This advanced technique is applied selectively throughout the pattern, with some sections worked back and forth in flat rows while others are worked in the round. This mixed construction method allows for precise shaping in specific areas while maintaining the efficiency of circular knitting where appropriate.

The pattern incorporates two-color knitting, which adds visual interest and complexity to the finished mitts. The design uses small squares printed within the pattern itself to serve as row counters, helping knitters keep track of their progress through each section and reducing the likelihood of mistakes in this intermediate-level project.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, the KI Mitts utilize fundamental knitting stitches combined with the shaping methods described above. The German short row technique and two-color work form the foundation of the construction, creating a garment that requires intermediate knitting skills to execute successfully.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

Yarn: The KI Mitts are worked in fingering weight yarn using two contrasting colors. The sample mitts shown in the pattern were created using Positive Ease Merino single yarn:

• Color A (Tweed Coat): 70 yards for size small, 80 yards for size medium, and 92 yards for size large (approximately 65m, 74m, and 85m respectively)
• Color B (Roasted Pumpkin): 70 yards for size small, 80 yards for size medium, and 92 yards for size large (approximately 65m, 74m, and 85m respectively)

Needles: US 1.5 / 2.5mm cable needles are required for this project. The small needle size is typical for fingering weight yarn and creates the dense, fitted fabric appropriate for mitts.

Notions: Three stitch markers are needed to track pattern repeats and construction sections throughout the knitting process.

Difficulty Level

The KI Mitts are rated as an intermediate knitting project. This difficulty level reflects the use of German short rows, two-color knitting techniques, and the need to manage multiple construction methods within a single project. Knitters should have solid foundational skills before attempting this pattern.