A Time To Reap

A Time To Reap Mittens by Melissa Schaschwary

Project Overview

A Time To Reap is an intermediate-level knitted mitten pattern designed by Melissa Schaschwary. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating slouchy, relaxed-fit mittens available in two sizes: XS-S and M/L. The mittens are engineered to be worn with positive ease at the wrist, creating a comfortable, intentionally loose silhouette rather than a fitted design.

What Is Being Made

These are fingerless mittens or mitts designed for a relaxed, slouchy fit on the arm. The pattern includes a thumb gusset for comfortable hand positioning and is constructed to sit loosely on the wrist and forearm without shaping. The mittens are suitable for layering and everyday wear, with sizing based on palm circumference measurements of 6.5 inches (17 centimeters) for XS-S and 7.5 inches (18-19 centimeters) for M/L.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The mittens are constructed using circular knitting needles or double-pointed needles (dpns), employing a two-gauge construction method. The cuff is worked at a tighter gauge to create definition, while the sleeve section uses a slightly larger needle size to achieve the relaxed fit characteristic of the design. A stitch marker is used to track the thumb gusset placement throughout the pattern. The German Twisted Cast On technique is referenced for the initial stitches, providing a secure and professional edge.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch: The primary stitch throughout both the cuff and sleeve sections, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Thumb Gusset Shaping: Increases are worked to create a gusseted thumb opening
• German Twisted Cast On: A specialized cast-on technique for a refined foundation edge

Yarn and Materials

The pattern recommends Sunshine Yarns Luxury Sock yarn in a 4-ply fingering weight. One skein provides 355 yards (325 meters) and weighs 113 grams (3.99 ounces), which is sufficient for completing the mittens. The yarn specifications indicate a weight of 14 wraps per inch (wpi).

Needles and Notions

• Cuff Needles: Size 1/2.25mm circular needles (24 inches or longer) or double-pointed needles
• Sleeve Needles: Size 3/3.25mm circular needles (24 inches or longer) or double-pointed needles
• Additional Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and stitch marker for tracking the thumb gusset

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this pattern. The cuff section should measure 28 stitches and 36 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) of stockinette stitch on size 1/2.25mm needles. The sleeve section requires 24 stitches and 34 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) of stockinette stitch on size 3/3.25mm needles. Knitters should adjust needle sizes as needed to obtain these gauge measurements before beginning the project.

Design Notes

The mittens feature a distinctive slouchy aesthetic with no shaping in the forearm or wrist area, allowing the fabric to drape naturally. The two-size construction accommodates different hand sizes while maintaining the relaxed fit philosophy of the design. This pattern is ideal for intermediate knitters who are comfortable working with circular needles or dpns and have experience with basic shaping techniques such as gusset increases.