Dreckly Mittens

Dreckly Mittens by Rosina Northcott

What is Being Made

Dreckly Mittens are a pair of warm, woolen mittens designed by independent designer Rosina Northcott. These mittens are crafted using crochet techniques and are suitable for intermediate-level makers. The pattern name "Dreckly" references a Southwest English dialect term meaning an unspecified time in the future—a playful nod to the pattern's long-delayed release.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is worked entirely in crochet, making it ideal for crafters comfortable with intermediate crochet skills. The mittens utilize a variety of crochet stitches and techniques to create structure, shaping, and decorative colorwork elements.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The pattern employs several fundamental and specialized crochet stitches:

• Chain (ch) – foundational stitch for creating edges and chain spaces
• Double crochet (dc) – primary stitch for building fabric density and structure
• Half double crochet (hdc) – used for varied texture and drape
• Foundationless double crochet (fdc) – a special stitch technique that eliminates the need for a separate foundation chain
• Raised back post treble (rbdc) – creates textured, dimensional effects by working into post stitches
• Raised front post double crochet (rfdc) – adds surface texture and visual interest
• Decrease (dec) – shaping technique for fitting the mittens to the hand
• Chain spaces (ch-sp) – openwork details and stitch placement guides

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The mittens are designed to showcase beautiful, high-quality yarns:

• Main Color (MC): Yarnadelic by John Arbon Textiles in "The Beautiful Ones," a sport/heavy 4ply weight yarn made from 100% Falklands Corriedale wool. One 100g skein (333m) provides sufficient yardage for the main mittens.
• Contrast Colors (CC): Five coordinating colors from the Yarnadelic range—English Sparrows (CC1), Sunflowers in my Garden (CC2), Of My Hands (CC3), Woman in Blue (CC4), and Wondrous Place (CC5)—each requiring less than 5g. Alternatively, a single 25g/83m mini skein in Wondrous Place may be substituted.
• Hook Size: 3.5mm hook (US size E/4) for working with sport weight yarn

Yarn Weight and Difficulty Level

The pattern is worked in sport weight yarn (also called heavy 4ply), a versatile weight that creates fabric with good drape and structure. This weight is ideal for mittens as it provides warmth without excessive bulk. The intermediate difficulty level indicates that makers should be comfortable with basic crochet stitches, shaping techniques, and color changes before beginning this project. The use of specialty stitches such as foundationless double crochet and raised post stitches adds complexity suitable for experienced makers seeking to expand their technical skills.