Gifford Woods

Gifford Woods Fingerless Mitts by BeckyinVT

What is Being Made

Gifford Woods is a pair of fingerless mitts designed by Becky Herrick, available in two sizes: small (7"/18 cm hand circumference) and large (8.25"/21 cm hand circumference). These mitts measure 11.5 inches (29 cm) for the small size and 13.25 inches (33.5 cm) for the large size in total length. The design celebrates the transitional seasons of spring and fall with leaf motifs, making them ideal for keeping hands and wrists warm during chilly weather while allowing full finger mobility.

Techniques Used

These fingerless mitts are constructed using knitting in the round, a fundamental technique that creates seamless, tubular fabric. The pattern incorporates several intermediate-level shaping techniques including ribbed cuffs for elastic stretch and a slipped stitch wristband that provides custom shaping to the wrist area. The design features mirrored leaf charts that are worked symmetrically, adding visual interest and demonstrating charted colorwork or textured pattern techniques. A thumb gusset is included to accommodate the thumb opening, requiring careful stitch management and marker placement throughout the construction process.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The primary stitch used in these mitts is stockinette stitch, worked at a gauge of 24.5 stitches and 36 rows per 4-inch (10 cm) square. The ribbed cuff employs ribbing stitches to create the elastic, textured edge that hugs the wrist. Slipped stitches are strategically used in the wristband section to create shaping and visual definition. The mirrored leaf charts introduce patterned elements that contrast with the stockinette background, likely using techniques such as stranded colorwork or textured stitches to create the leaf design details.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

The recommended yarn is Periwinkle Sheep Sock Dream in the color chai, a premium blend consisting of 80% superwash merino wool, 10% cashmere, and 10% nylon. This yarn is classified as 4-ply weight and provides 435 yards per 100 grams. One skein is required, with yardage requirements of 221 yards for the small size and 303 yards for the large size, ensuring adequate material with minimal waste.

Construction requires US 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles (dpns) or the size necessary to achieve the specified gauge. Additional notions include three stitch markers (with one unique marker to denote the end of round), scrap yarn or a stitch holder for managing the thumb gusset stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends. The combination of superwash merino, cashmere, and nylon creates an extremely soft, durable fabric that provides warmth while remaining breathable and easy to care for.

Design Features and Finished Quality

The ribbed cuffs and slipped stitch wristband work together to create a garment that hugs the wrists and hands, providing toasty warmth on chilly nights while maintaining a comfortable, secure fit. The leaf-themed design celebrates the natural beauty of transitional seasons, making these mitts both functional and aesthetically appealing for spring and fall wear. The fingerless construction allows for full hand and finger mobility, making them practical for activities requiring dexterity while still providing wrist and hand warmth.