L.O.V.E. MITTENS

L.O.V.E. Mittens by Wenke Müller

What is Being Made

The L.O.V.E. Mittens are a pair of knitted mittens designed by Wenke Müller. These mittens feature a classic construction with a finished height of 27 cm and width of 25 cm. The design includes decorative embroidery on the front side, spelling out the word "L.O.V.E." using a two-ply yarn and back stitch embroidery technique.

Knitting Techniques Used

This mitten pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The mittens are worked in the round from cuff to top, utilizing a method where both cuffs are constructed separately before being joined together and worked simultaneously in rounds up to the completion of the mitten. This construction method allows for even shaping and consistent stitch tension throughout the garment.

The pattern incorporates increases using the M1 (make 1) technique, which creates new stitches by knitting into both the front and back of a single stitch. Strategic increases are placed on specific needles during the body shaping rounds to achieve the proper mitten width and fit.

Stitches Used

• Rib Stitch: Used for the cuffs (rounds 1-14), creating an elastic, fitted edge that helps the mittens stay securely on the wrists
• Stockinette Stitch: Forms the main body of the mittens, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Back Stitch: Applied as embroidery after the mittens are complete, used to create the decorative L.O.V.E. lettering on the front side

Materials and Tools

The L.O.V.E. Mittens are knitted using Schachenmayr "Universa" yarn, a super chunky weight yarn composed of 55% wool and 45% polyacrylic. This fiber blend provides warmth, durability, and easy care. The yarn has a length of 125 meters per 50-gram skein. The pattern calls for colour 197 for the main mitten body and colour 1 for the embroidery details.

Construction requires double pointed needles appropriate for the super chunky yarn weight. The pattern uses stitch markers to denote the beginning of rounds and stitch holders to temporarily hold stitches during construction. A tapestry needle or embroidery needle is needed for the decorative back stitch embroidery work on the finished mittens.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. The circular knitting construction, strategic increases, and embroidery finishing provide a moderate challenge while remaining accessible to developing crafters.