Woven Mitts

Woven Mitts by Tanja Osswald

What is Being Made

Woven Mitts are a pair of crocheted fingerless mittens designed by Tanja Osswald, measuring approximately 18 cm (7 inches) in length and 7 cm (2.75 inches) in width. These mitts feature bold color blocking in contrasting hues combined with an intricate cable design, creating a visually striking accessory that captures attention both from a distance and up close.

Design Features and Visual Appeal

The Woven Mitts showcase a distinctive aesthetic built on two complementary design elements. The bold color blocks provide immediate visual impact, while the intricate cable design adds textural depth and sophistication. The cables are created using Tanja Osswald's signature woven cable technique adapted for crochet, which sets these mitts apart from traditional cable designs.

Crochet Techniques Used

This advanced-level crochet project employs several specialized techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance and functionality:

• Woven cable technique: A horizontal cable method developed by the designer that creates the intricate textural pattern characteristic of these mitts
• Slip stitches: Used extensively throughout the pattern, particularly worked through the back loop only, which creates stretch and flexibility in the finished fabric
• Color blocking: Strategic use of two contrasting colors (white and black) to create bold visual sections within the design
• Seaming: Finished using a darning needle to join sections together

Stitches and Stitch Details

The Woven Mitts are primarily constructed using slip stitches worked through the back loop only. This specific stitch application creates a fabric with natural elasticity and stretch, essential for a comfortable mitt that moves with the wearer's hand. The gauge for this project is approximately 24 stitches and 40 rows per 10 cm × 10 cm (4 inches × 4 inches) square when using the back loop only slip stitch technique. The pattern utilizes David Burchall's terminology for naming slip stitch variations, providing precise technical guidance for advanced crocheters.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Woven Mitts pattern calls for Zitron Herbstwind yarn, a premium merino blend composed of 100% Merino extrafine fiber. One skein each of two colors is required: color 1 (white) and color 5 (black). Herbstwind yarn offers 165 meters per 50-gram skein, providing sufficient yardage for this project while delivering the warmth and softness essential to the finished mittens' comfort and wearability.

Tools and Equipment

Construction of the Woven Mitts requires a 4 mm crochet hook (US size G) and a darning needle for seaming the finished pieces together. These standard tools are suitable for working with sport-weight yarn at the specified gauge.

Yarn Weight and Difficulty Level

The Woven Mitts are crafted using sport-weight yarn, which provides a balance between drape and structure. This project is rated as advanced difficulty, making it suitable for experienced crocheters who are comfortable working with specialized techniques such as woven cables and back loop only slip stitches. The pattern includes guidance on adjusting the size to accommodate different hand measurements.

Pattern Format

The Woven Mitts pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, making it accessible for immediate use once purchased. The pattern includes comprehensive instructions, abbreviations, and sizing information to support crocheters throughout the project.