Shawgrove mitts

Shawgrove Mitts by Katya Frankel

What is Being Made

The Shawgrove mitts are a pair of fingerless mittens designed to provide warmth while keeping hands mobile. These mitts feature an intuitive all-over cable pattern that grows organically from the ribbing and winds across the hand, imitating natural structures found in tree bark. The design offers two finished hand circumference options: 7 inches (17.5 cm) and 8 inches (20 cm), making them adaptable to different hand sizes.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Shawgrove mitts are knitted in the round, a fundamental technique that creates seamless, tubular fabric ideal for fitted garments like mittens. This project incorporates several intermediate-level techniques:

• Cable stitches form the primary pattern element, creating the textured, rope-like design that mimics organic bark patterns
• Knit and purl stitches form the foundation of the cable pattern and ribbing
• Ribbing provides elastic structure at the cuff and serves as the base from which cables organically develop
• Increases are used to shape the mitt as it expands from the wrist to the hand
• Simple finishing techniques complete the project with a polished appearance

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The pattern calls for Rowan Pure Wool Worsted, a 100% wool yarn offering 219 yards (200 meters) per 100-gram skein. The specified colorway is Rosy #115, and only one skein is required to complete the mitts. Knitters may substitute with approximately 219 yards (200 meters) of any worsted-weight yarn, though yarn amounts may vary depending on the specific yarn chosen.

Needles required include a set of 4 mm (US 6) double-pointed needles for knitting in the round. Additional notions include markers to track pattern repeats, a cable needle for manipulating cable stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends during finishing. Needle size may be adjusted as needed to achieve the correct gauge.

Gauge and Finished Measurements

The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 30 rounds equals 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked in the cable stitch pattern using 4 mm (US 6) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. The finished hand circumference measurements are available in two sizes: 7 inches (17.5 cm) and 8 inches (20 cm).

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Shawgrove mitts are suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle cables and shaping. The combination of knitting in the round, cable work, and increases requires comfort with these techniques, though the intuitive pattern design makes the project accessible to those expanding their knitting repertoire.