Fretta Fingerless Mitts

Fretta Fingerless Mitts by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

The Fretta Fingerless Mitts are a quick-knit accessory designed to showcase variegated sock yarn in a wearable format. These fingerless mitts feature an 8-inch circumference around the palm and are ideal for crafters who want to display beautiful variegated colorways without hiding them inside shoes. The design pairs well with a matching hat, also available from the designer, allowing for coordinated accessories.

Techniques and Construction

This project is worked in the round using either a set of five double-pointed needles or circular needles in size 3 US (3.25 mm). The construction begins with casting on 48 stitches and joining to work circularly. The pattern incorporates a simple slipped stitch pattern that breaks up the variegated colorway, creating visual interest while maintaining ease of execution. The pattern repeats across four rounds, worked eight times for the standard length, though knitters can easily customize the cuff length by working additional repeats of the four-round pattern sequence.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) - the primary stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl (P) - used in the slipped stitch pattern
• Knit two together (K2tog) - a decrease stitch for shaping
• Make one (M1) - an increase stitch for shaping
• Slip one with yarn in front (Sl1wyif) - the key stitch in the slipped stitch pattern that creates the decorative texture

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Fretta Fingerless Mitts are designed for 4-ply weight yarn, specifically showcasing Dragonfly Fibers Dragon Sock in 100% Superwash Merino. The sample shown was knit in the colorway Bad Moon Rising. A full skein of Dragon Sock contains 390 yards per 4 ounces, though the sample mitts required only 135 yards, making this an excellent project for using up partial skeins or yarn scraps from your stash. The Superwash Merino fiber provides durability and easy care for a frequently-worn accessory.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 24 stitches and 32 rows per 4 inches in blocked stockinette stitch, knit in the round. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the finished 8-inch palm circumference and ensuring the mitts fit comfortably.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Fretta Fingerless Mitts require familiarity with knitting in the round, basic increases and decreases, and reading pattern instructions. The slipped stitch pattern adds visual complexity without significantly increasing technical difficulty, making this an accessible project for knitters with some experience who wish to expand their skills.