Belgique Fingerless Mittens Mitts

Belgique Fingerless Mittens Mitts by Brenda Lavell

Project Overview

The Belgique Fingerless Mittens are an intermediate-level knitting pattern designed by Brenda Lavell. These elegant fingerless mitts feature a distinctive twisted rib construction combined with a waffle-like texture, making them an ideal project for experienced knitters seeking a moderately challenging design or advanced beginners looking to expand their skill set. The pattern is suitable for one-size-fits-most construction.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a pair of fingerless mittens, also referred to as mitts. The design showcases an elegant twisted rib with a textured waffle-like appearance. Fingerless mittens are versatile accessories that provide warmth to the wrist and hand while leaving the fingers exposed for dexterity and functionality. These mitts work particularly well with hand-dyed or hand-painted semisolid yarns, whether in vivid or subtle color palettes, allowing the stitch texture to shine through the yarn characteristics.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Belgique Fingerless Mittens employ several key knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters:

• Twisted Rib Stitch: The primary stitch pattern features a twisted rib construction, created using knit through the back loop (k1 tbl) combined with purl stitches (p1). This twisted variation creates visual interest and structural integrity.
• Waffle-Like Texture: The combination of stitches produces a dimensional, waffle-like texture that adds depth and visual appeal to the finished mittens.
• Circular Knitting: The pattern is worked in the round using double point needles, a fundamental technique for creating seamless tubular garments like mittens.
• Gauge Work: The pattern requires attention to gauge, with 22 stitches and 32 rows equaling 4 inches (10 centimeters) in pattern when blocked, ensuring proper fit.

Materials Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for 108 yards (99 meters) of sport or DK weight yarn. The example shown uses Wool Candy Fondant DK weight in 100% superwash merino wool, with 247 yards per 3.5 gram skein. DK weight yarn is a versatile mid-weight option that produces a fabric with good drape and structure, ideal for displaying stitch definition in textured patterns.

Needles: Size 7 US (4.5mm, equivalent to size 7 UK/Canada) double point needles are required, or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. Double point needles allow for seamless circular knitting in small circumferences, making them essential for mitt construction.

Difficulty Level and Suitability

Designated as an intermediate-level pattern, the Belgique Fingerless Mittens offer a fairly quick knitting project that provides a good challenge for advanced beginners while remaining accessible for more experienced knitters. The combination of twisted rib and textured stitching requires solid foundational skills and attention to stitch detail, making this an excellent project for knitters seeking to refine their technique without undertaking a large-scale garment.