Open Windows

Open Windows Gloves and Mittens by Alicia Plummer

What is Being Made

Open Windows is a downloadable knitting pattern designed by Alicia Plummer for creating a pair of gloves or mittens. The pattern offers two finished circumference options: 7.5 inches (19.5 cm) for a smaller fit or 9 inches (23 cm) for a larger fit, with a total height of 8 inches (20 cm). This design captures the essence of spring's arrival, featuring an airy aesthetic inspired by the freshness of the season when windows are thrown open to let in warm sunshine and fresh air.

Techniques Used

The Open Windows pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginner-level crafters. The gloves and mittens are constructed using in-the-round knitting, which creates seamless cylindrical pieces ideal for hand-wear. The pattern utilizes double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needles to work continuously in rounds, eliminating the need for seaming. The stitch pattern incorporates alternating rounds of different knit and purl combinations to create visual texture and interest throughout the piece.

Stitches Used

The Open Windows pattern relies on two fundamental stitches:

• Knit stitch (k): The primary stitch creating the smooth stockinette ground fabric
• Purl stitch (p): Used strategically throughout the pattern to create textured contrast and visual "windows" in the fabric

The stitch pattern repeats across 10 rounds, with varying combinations of knit and purl stitches creating a rhythmic, geometric design. The stockinette ground provides a clean backdrop for the purl stitch detailing, which forms the distinctive open window motif characteristic of the design.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for Western Sky Knits Willow Sport weight yarn in the Dunes colorway. Approximately 150 to 200 yards of yarn is required to complete the project, making it an efficient use of yardage for smaller accessories.

Needles: US Size 5 (3.75 mm) double-pointed needles or circular needles are used to achieve the correct gauge of 24 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch.

Additional Notions: The pattern requires 2 place markers to help track pattern repeats and round markers, plus a darning needle for weaving in yarn ends after completion.

Difficulty Level

Open Windows is classified as a beginner-level knitting project, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to in-the-round construction or those developing their skills with double-pointed needles. The straightforward combination of knit and purl stitches, along with the relatively small finished size, allows beginners to practice fundamental techniques while creating a wearable, finished accessory.