Block Mittens

Block Mittens by Jenise Reid

What is Being Made

Block Mittens are a pair of knitted mittens designed by Jenise Reid, available in two sizes to fit palm circumferences of 7.25 inches (small) or 7.75 inches (large). The mittens feature a palm length of 4.5 inches for the small size and 5.5 inches for the large size. These mittens are constructed with intentional negative ease for a snug, fitted wear. The pattern is specifically designed to be easily customizable, allowing knitters to adjust the fit to their own hand measurements and to modify the pattern for different yarn weights and gauges.

Techniques Used

Block Mittens are created using fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level knitters. The primary construction method is knitting in the round, which creates seamless mittens and is typically worked using either a 36-inch circular needle with the magic loop method or traditional double-pointed needles. The pattern incorporates color work as an optional element, allowing knitters to create contrast blocks within their mittens. Additional techniques include grafting, which is used to close the top of the mittens seamlessly, and standard shaping increases to form the mitten structure.

Stitches Used

The Block Mittens pattern utilizes essential knitting stitches that form the foundation of the design. Stockinette stitch serves as the primary stitch throughout the mittens, creating a smooth, classic fabric with a gauge of 4.5 stitches and 8 rows per inch when blocked. The pattern also incorporates knit and purl stitches as foundational skills, and uses increases to shape the hand portion of the mittens. Stitch markers are employed throughout the construction to help track pattern repeats and shaping points.

Materials

Block Mittens are designed to be worked in Aran-weight yarn, with the pattern specifically showcasing Malabrigo Worsted, a 100% Merino Wool yarn that provides 210 yards per 100 grams. The original pattern features two colorways: Water Green 83 as the main color and Tortuga 118 as the contrast color. Alternatively, knitters may use Malabrigo Rios, also 100% Merino Wool with the same yardage, shown in colorway Arco Iris 866 for a single-color version. One skein of the main color and one skein of the contrast color are required, or a single skein if working in one color. Knitting needles should be 3.75 mm (US Size 5), either as a 36-inch circular needle for magic loop construction or as double-pointed needles. Additional notions include a yarn needle for finishing, stitch markers for tracking progress, and extra needles or stitch holders for securing stitches during construction.