Umila

Umila Slippers by Olga Beckmann

What Is Being Made

Umila is a pair of women's knitted slippers designed by independent designer Olga Beckmann. These finished slippers measure approximately 9⅞" to 10" (25–26 cm) in length and are sized to fit women's shoe sizes Europe 38–39–40, United Kingdom 5–6–6.5, and USA & Canada 7½–8½–9. The slippers are constructed using the knitting craft with an intermediate difficulty level, making them suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques.

Craft and Techniques

Umila is created entirely through knitting, the primary and only craft required for this project. The pattern employs circular knitting techniques, as indicated by the use of a 20" circular needle. Knitters have the option to work with double-pointed needles (DPNs) as an alternative. The pattern includes a provisional cast-on method, which allows for seamless construction and finishing. Felting is part of the finishing process, as noted in the materials list, which helps shape and set the final slipper form. The gauge is set at 12 stitches and 18 rounds per 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch before felting, and knitters are advised to adjust needle size as necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure for Umila is Stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knitted fabric. This fundamental stitch is worked in the round using circular needles, producing even rows and columns of interlocking loops that form the base structure of the slippers.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: Umila calls for Garnstudio Drops Andes, a super bulky weight yarn (5–6 wraps per inch) or bulky weight yarn (7 wraps per inch). The Drops Andes yarn is composed of 65% wool and 35% alpaca, providing warmth, softness, and durability. The pattern requires 105 yards (95 meters) per 100 grams (3.53 ounces), and knitters will need 2 skeins to complete the project. As an alternative, the slippers can be knitted using two threads of worsted weight yarn (9 wraps per inch) held together, offering flexibility for yarn substitution.

Needles: The pattern specifies a 20" circular needle in US size 7 (7.0 mm). Optional double-pointed needles (DPNs) in the same size (US 7 – 7.0 mm) are available for knitters who prefer that method. Additional notions include a row counter for tracking progress, stitch markers to denote pattern sections, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, waste yarn for the provisional cast-on, an elastic ribbon 1" (2.5 cm) wide cut into two 2" (approximately 5–6 cm) pieces for reinforcement or shaping, and a sewing needle or yarn for attaching the elastic.