Aisneach Mitts

Aisneach Mitts by Liz Corke

What is Being Made

Aisneach Mitts are fingerless mitts designed to showcase beautiful yarn while providing practical hand warmth. The pattern name means "ribbed" in Scottish Gaelic, reflecting the primary design feature. These mitts are available in six sizes ranging from XS to XL, with finished circumferences from 15 cm (6") to 21.5 cm (8.5"). The design offers versatility—you can swap the left and right mitts to display more of the textured ribbed pattern on the back of the hand, creating two distinct looks from a single pattern.

Techniques and Construction

Aisneach Mitts are knitted in the round using circular needles or double-pointed needles, a technique that creates seamless, tubular fabric ideal for fitted garments like mitts. The pattern features textured ribbed columns that wrap around the outside of the hand opposite the thumb, creating visual interest and dimension. The mitts are designed with up to 0 to 1.25 cm (0 to 0.5") of negative ease, meaning they fit slightly snug for a secure, non-slip wear. This intermediate-level pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with stitch markers and manage shaping in the round.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric base. This is combined with ribbed columns that provide textural contrast and visual appeal. The ribbed sections wrap strategically around the mitt to frame the hand beautifully. Stitch markers are essential to this pattern, with five markers required per mitt to help track pattern repeats and shaping sections as you work in the round.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The pattern calls for 4 ply yarn (also known as fingering weight), specifically designed around Fruitful Fusion Merino Cashmere Nylon. This luxury blend contains 80% Merino wool, 10% Cashmere, and 10% Nylon, offering softness, warmth, and durability. The yarn provides 380 yards per 100 grams. Yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires 135 yards, S requires 145 yards, M1 requires 165 yards, M2 requires 185 yards, L requires 200 yards, and XL requires 220 yards.

The recommended gauge is 32 stitches and 44 rows in 10 cm (4") in stocking stitch in the round. This relatively tight gauge is typical for 4 ply yarn and creates a dense, durable fabric suitable for mitts that will receive regular wear.

Needles and Notions

• 2.5 mm (US 1.5) circular needles, 80 cm (32") or longer, or double-pointed needles for knitting in the round
• Five stitch markers per mitt to track pattern repeats and construction sections
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends after completion

The pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF designed by independent designer Liz Corke, making it accessible for immediate use once purchased.