Malina

Malina Slippers by Olga Beckmann

What is Being Made

Malina is a pair of knitted slippers designed by independent designer Olga Beckmann. These slippers are available in two sizes: Women's Medium (9⅝" - 9⅞" or 24-25 cm long) and Men's Large (11" or 28-29 cm long). The slippers are sized to fit women's European shoe sizes 37-38-39 and men's European sizes 43-44-45, with equivalent UK and USA/Canada sizing provided. This is an intermediate-level knitting project suitable for knitters with some experience.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

Malina is constructed using circular knitting techniques, which allows for seamless construction in the round. The pattern utilizes a provisional cast-on method with waste yarn, a common technique for creating neat edges and allowing for future adjustments or grafting. The slippers are worked primarily on a 20-inch circular needle, with optional double-pointed needles (DPNs) available for those who prefer that method for small circumference knitting. Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric structure, creating a smooth, classic knit surface.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is Stockinette stitch, which is worked in the round and creates the characteristic smooth knit fabric on the right side. This fundamental stitch is ideal for slipper construction as it produces a dense, durable fabric suitable for footwear while remaining relatively simple to execute at the intermediate skill level.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Malina is designed to be knitted with super bulky or bulky weight yarn. The recommended yarn is Garnstudio Drops Andes, a natural fiber blend composed of 65% wool and 35% alpaca. This fiber combination provides warmth, softness, and durability ideal for slipper wear.

• Yarn weight: Super Bulky (5-6 wpi) or Bulky (7 wpi)
• Yardage required: 105 yards (95 meters) per 100 grams (3.53 ounces)
• Quantity needed: 2 skeins for women's sizes; 2¼ skeins for men's sizes
• Fiber content: 65% wool, 35% alpaca

An alternative option is available for knitters who prefer lighter yarn: the slippers can be knitted using two threads of worsted weight yarn (9 wpi) held together, which provides flexibility for yarn substitution while maintaining the correct fabric density.

Needles and Notions

• Circular needle: 20-inch length, US 7 (7.0 mm)
• Double-pointed needles (optional): US 7 (7.0 mm) for super bulky or bulky weight yarn
• Gauge: 13 stitches and 20 rounds = 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch before felting
• Additional notions: Stitch marker, tapestry needle, waste yarn for provisional cast-on, and row counter

Knitters are advised to adjust needle size as necessary to obtain the correct gauge, ensuring proper fit and fabric characteristics. The gauge measurement is taken before felting, indicating that the finished slippers undergo a felting process to enhance durability and create a more finished appearance.