Studded Mitts

Studded Mitts by Anni Howard

What is Being Made

The Studded Mitts are a pair of fingerless knitted mitts designed by Anni Howard. These mitts are crafted to fit snugly around the palm and are available in two sizes: Small to fit 17-19cm palm width, and Large to fit 20-22cm palm width. The finished mitts measure 16.5cm (Small) or 20cm (Large) in circumference and are approximately 21cm (8¼ inches) long. The fingerless design makes them practical for activities requiring hand mobility while keeping the wrists and lower forearms warm.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Studded Mitts are knitted in the round, a technique that creates seamless, tubular fabric ideal for fitted garments like gloves and mittens. The pattern begins with a 2-colour k1, p1 rib cuff that measures 6½ inches (Small) or 7¾ inches (Large), providing elasticity and a neat finished edge. After the ribbed cuff is complete, the knitter transitions to a stranded pattern worked from charts, which involves carrying multiple yarn colors across the fabric to create a decorative design. The distinctive studded embellishment is created using French knots, a surface embroidery technique that adds three-dimensional texture and visual interest to the finished mitts.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k) – the fundamental stitch used throughout the pattern
• Purl (p) – used in the k1, p1 ribbing for texture and stretch
• Stranded knitting stitches – standard knit stitches worked with multiple colors to create the patterned design from charts
• French knots – an embroidery stitch applied after knitting to create the studded detail

Materials and Tools

The Studded Mitts pattern calls for 4ply yarn (also suitable for fingering weight yarn). The recommended yarn is Gathered Sheep Yarns Jacob 4ply in four coordinating colorways: Candle (A), Larkspur (B), Wattle and Daub (C), and The Glamorous Peony (D). Yardage requirements are approximately 70-85 meters in the main color (A), 35-40 meters in the secondary color (B), 55-70 meters in color C, and 60-75 meters in color D, depending on size. The pattern is worked on 3mm (US 2) needles suitable for knitting in the round. Knitters using alternative yarns should select 4ply or fingering weight options to achieve the intended fit and fabric characteristics.

Difficulty Level

The Studded Mitts are rated as an intermediate knitting project. This difficulty level reflects the combination of techniques required: proficiency with knitting in the round, ability to work from charts for stranded colorwork, and familiarity with embroidery finishing techniques like French knots. Knitters with solid foundational skills and some experience with multi-color knitting will find this project approachable and rewarding.